Private key

A private key is one of an asymmetric key pair and consists of a data string and an algorithmic pattern.

A user or server can use a private key to decrypt messages that were encrypted with the corresponding public key . A user or server can also use a private key to encrypt messages that only the corresponding public key can decrypt.

A public key is usually bound to the owner's digital certificate and is available for anyone to use. A private key, however, is protected by and available only to the owner of the key. This limited access ensures that communications that use the key are kept secure.