How To Use PGP Encryption
Learn how to use PGP encryption for secure communication. This guide will walk you through the basics of PGP and how to use our tools.
PGP Basics
Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) is an encryption program that provides cryptographic privacy and authentication for data communication. PGP is used for signing, encrypting, and decrypting texts, emails, files, directories, and whole disk partitions.
How PGP Works
PGP uses a combination of symmetric-key and public-key cryptography:
- Public-key cryptography: Each user has a pair of keys - a public key that can be shared with anyone, and a private key that must be kept secret.
- Symmetric-key cryptography: For efficiency, PGP actually encrypts the message with a one-time symmetric key, and then encrypts that key with the recipient's public key.
Key Concepts
- Public Key: This is the key you share with others. People use your public key to encrypt messages that only you can decrypt, and to verify signatures you've created.
- Private Key: This key must be kept secret. You use it to decrypt messages encrypted with your public key and to create digital signatures.
- Digital Signatures: These allow you to verify that a message came from a specific person and hasn't been altered.
- Web of Trust: Instead of relying on centralized certificate authorities, PGP uses a decentralized trust model where users can vouch for the authenticity of other users' keys.
Security Note
Always keep your private key secure and never share it with anyone. Consider using a strong passphrase to protect your private key.
Common Use Cases
- Sending encrypted emails that only the intended recipient can read
- Verifying the authenticity of software downloads
- Securely exchanging sensitive information
- Proving your identity online through digital signatures