An exploration of public key infrastructure applications across diverse domains: a comparative analysis

Abstract

This article delves into the vital role of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) in securing and authenticating communications across a multitude of fields. PKI has evolved from a mere technical concept into a cornerstone of secure digital communications, playing a central role in various domains such as web security, healthcare, finance, the Internet of Things (IoT), and government services. PKI employs cryptographic techniques and digital certificates to establish trust, ensure data integrity, and enable secure communications, thus acting as the backbone of digital security. In the wake of the digital revolution, the demand for reliable and robust security solutions has skyrocketed. The diversity and scale of modern digital platforms necessitate adaptable security solutions, a challenge which PKI tackles through its flexible implementation. Despite sharing core principles, the implementation of PKI demonstrates divergences influenced by factors such as scale, complexity, resource constraints, regulatory environments, and trust models. This article offers an extensive comparison of PKI's utilization across various domains, highlighting the commonalities and divergences. It explores how PKI is tailored to meet the unique requirements and challenges of each sector and discusses the certificate lifecycle management in varying contexts. Moreover, it provides an analysis of the current state of PKI applications and challenges, offering insights into the evolving landscape of threats and technologies. Not only does the article address the current state of PKI, but it also presents a forward-looking perspective on its potential future developments. As the digital landscape continues to evolve and expand, it is crucial to anticipate the emerging challenges and devise strategies for proactive adaptation. This article thus serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the role and impact of PKI in the contemporary digital infrastructure. Ultimately, the article seeks to underline the importance of PKI and highlight the need for continued research and development in this area. As our reliance on digital communications and transactions continues to grow, the role of PKI in safeguarding these interactions becomes increasingly significant. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in understanding the diverse applications of PKI and its critical role in securing the digital world.