K

key pair, asymmetric

A pair of encryption keys that are not identical: one key is used to encrypt the data and a different key is used to decrypt it. With asymmetric keys, one key is known as the public key and the other is known as the private key. Exchange 2000 Server uses this type of encryption technology.

key pair, symmetric

Identical encryption keys. Both the sender and the recipient use the same key to encrypt and decrypt the data. Also known as shared keys.