ExpertMedium1 markMultiple Choice
CPA · Question 26 · Area II: Security
In the context of encryption, what is the primary difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption?
In the context of encryption, what is the primary difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption?
Answer options:
A.
Symmetric uses the same key for encryption and decryption; Asymmetric uses a public/private key pair.
B.
Symmetric is slower but more secure; Asymmetric is faster but less secure.
C.
Symmetric is used for digital signatures; Asymmetric is used for bulk data encryption.
D.
Symmetric keys can be shared publicly; Asymmetric keys must be kept secret.
How to approach this question
Symmetric = Same (1 key). Asymmetric = Different (2 keys).
Full Answer
A.Symmetric uses the same key for encryption and decryption; Asymmetric uses a public/private key pair.✓ Correct
A
Symmetric encryption (e.g., AES) uses one shared secret key. Asymmetric encryption (e.g., RSA) uses a mathematically related pair: a public key to encrypt and a private key to decrypt.
Common mistakes
Confusing which is faster (Symmetric is faster).
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