Cisco Cyber Security Practice Exam

Which type of encryption employs Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA)?

1. Symmetric

2. Asymmetric

3. Public-key

4. Secret-key

The correct answer is: Asymmetric

RSA is a widely used algorithm that plays a critical role in the field of cryptography. It falls under the category of asymmetric encryption, which means that it utilizes a pair of keys: a public key and a private key. This fundamental characteristic distinguishes it from symmetric encryption, where the same key is used for both encryption and decryption. In asymmetric encryption, the public key can be shared with anyone and is used to encrypt messages. Conversely, the private key, which is kept secret, is used to decrypt those messages. This system enhances security because even if someone has access to the public key, they cannot decrypt the information without the corresponding private key. RSA is often used for secure data transmission and authentication processes because of this capability. It is also the foundation for several other cryptographic protocols, making it a vital component in modern day cybersecurity practices. Regarding the other options, symmetric encryption, secret-key encryption, and public-key encryption (which is another term for asymmetric encryption) are not accurate in the context of RSA because they either refer to a single key scenario or describe RSA incorrectly. This underscores the unique attributes of RSA as an asymmetric encryption algorithm, reinforcing its importance in securing data communications.