Question

State two differences between Symmetric and Asymmetric keys with suitable examples. Mainly looking for a clear explanation about each key and advantages and disadvantages of each key type.

Answer 1

DIFFERENCES-

Symmetric Key-:

-->Symmetric key encryption uses a single key for both encryption and Decryption.

-->Symmetric key is used for sending bulk of data. Example - AES,DES etc.

Asymmentric Key-:

-->Asymmetric key encryption is generally used for exchanging secret keys.

-->Asymmetric key encryption uses user's public key for encryption and private key for decryption.Example - RSA,DSA etc.

Advantages of Symmetric key type -:

• A symmetric key encryption is faster.
• A system only which possesses the secret key can decrypt a message.

Disadvantages of Symmetric key type -:

• Cannot provide digital signatures that cannot be repudiated

Advantages of Asymmetric key type -:

• Can provide digital signatures that can be repudiated.
• In asymmetric or public key, cryptography there is no need for exchanging keys, thus eliminating the key distribution problem.

Disadvantages of Asymmetric key type -:

• A disadvantage of using public-key cryptography for encryption is speed.