Public and private keys are used in encryption to securely send data over a network. They work as a pair to ensure that only the intended recipient can read the data.

• Each user has a key pair:
  • A public key (shared with others)
  • A private key (kept secret)
• When sending data:
  • The sender uses the recipient’s public key to encrypt the data
  • The encrypted data is sent over the network

• Shared openly with others
• Used to encrypt data

• Kept secret by the owner
• Used to decrypt data