NIST Special Publication 800-57 Part 1
Revision 4
Recommendation for
Key Management
Part 1: General
Elaine Barker
This publication is available free of charge from:
http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-57pt1r4
C O M P U T E R S E C U R I T Y
NIST Special Publication 800-57 Part 1
Revision 4
Recommendation for
Key Management
Part 1: General
Elaine Barker
Computer Security Division
Information Technology Laboratory
This publication is available free of charge from:
http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-57pt1r4
January 2016
U.S. Department of Commerce
Penny Pritzker, Secretary
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Willie May, Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and Director
Authority
This publication has been developed by NIST in accordance with its statutory responsibilities under
the Federal Information Security Modernization Act (FISMA) of 2014, 44 U.S.C. § 3541 et seq.,
Public Law (P.L.) 113-283. NIST is responsible for developing information security standards and
guidelines, including minimum requirements for federal information systems, but such standards
and guidelines shall not apply to national security systems without the express approval of
appropriate federal officials exercising policy authority over such systems. This guideline is
consistent with the requirements of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-130.
Nothing in this publication should be taken to contradict the standards and guidelines made
mandatory and binding on Federal agencies by the Secretary of Commerce under statutory
authority. Nor should these guidelines be interpreted as altering or superseding the existing
authorities of the Secretary of Commerce, Director of the OMB, or any other Federal official. This
publication may be used by nongovernmental organizations on a voluntary basis and is not subject
to copyright in the United States. Attribution would, however, be appreciated by NIST.
National Institute of Standards and Technology Special Publication 800-57 Part 1,
Revision 4
Natl. Inst. Stand. Technol. Spec. Publ. 800-57 Part 1, Revision 4, 160 pages (January 2016)
CODEN: NSPUE2
This publication is available free of charge from:
http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-57pt1r4
Certain commercial entities, equipment, or materials may be identified in this document in order to
describe an experimental procedure or concept adequately. Such identification is not intended to
imply recommendation or endorsement by NIST, nor is it intended to imply that the entities,
materials, or equipment are necessarily the best available for the purpose.
There may be references in this publication to other publications currently under development by
NIST in accordance with its assigned statutory responsibilities. The information in this publication,
including concepts and methodologies, may be used by Federal agencies even before the completion
of such companion publications. Thus, until each publication is completed, current requirements,
guidelines, and procedures, where they exist, remain operative. For planning and transition purposes,
Federal agencies may wish to closely follow the development of these new publications by NIST.
Organizations are encouraged to review all draft publications during public comment periods and
provide feedback to NIST. Many NIST cybersecurity publications, other than the ones noted above,
are available at http://csrc.nist.gov/publications.
All comments are subject to release under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Attn: Computer Security Division, Information Technology Laboratory
100 Bureau Drive (Mail Stop 8930) Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8930
Email: keymanagement@nist.gov
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
Key Management: General
ii
Reports on Computer Systems Technology
The Information Technology Laboratory (ITL) at the National Institute of Standards and
Technology (NIST) promotes the U.S. economy and public welfare by providing technical
leadership for the Nation’s measurement and standards infrastructure. ITL develops tests,
test methods, reference data, proof of concept implementations, and technical analyses to
advance the development and productive use of information technology. ITL’s
responsibilities include the development of management, administrative, technical, and
physical standards and guidelines for the cost-effective security and privacy of other than
national security-related information in federal information systems. The Special
Publication 800-series reports on ITL’s research, guidelines, and outreach efforts in
information system security, and its collaborative activities with industry, government, and
academic organizations.
Abstract
This Recommendation provides cryptographic key management guidance. It consists of
three parts. Part 1 provides general guidance and best practices for the management of
cryptographic keying material. Part 2 provides guidance on policy and security planning
requirements for U.S. government agencies. Finally, Part 3 provides guidance when using
the cryptographic features of current systems.
Keywords
archive; assurances; authentication; authorization; availability; backup; compromise;
confidentiality; cryptanalysis; cryptographic key; cryptographic module; digital signature;
hash function; key agreement; key management; key management policy; key recovery;
key transport; originator-usage period; private key; public key; recipient-usage period;
secret key; split knowledge; trust anchor.
Acknowledgements
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) gratefully acknowledges and
appreciates contributions by previous authors of this document on the many security issues
associated with this Recommendation: William Barker, William Burr, and Timothy Polk
from NIST; Miles Smid from Orion Security; and Lydia Zieglar from the National Security
Agency. NIST also thanks the many contributions by the public and private sectors whose
thoughtful and constructive comments improved the quality and usefulness of this
publication.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Executive Summary
The proper management of cryptographic keys is essential to the effective use of
cryptography for security. Keys are analogous to the combination of a safe. If a safe
combination is known to an adversary, the strongest safe provides no security against
penetration. Similarly, poor key management may easily compromise strong algorithms.
Ultimately, the security of information protected by cryptography directly depends on the
strength of the keys, the effectiveness of mechanisms and protocols associated with the
keys, and the protection afforded to the keys. All keys need to be protected against
modification, and secret and private keys need to be protected against unauthorized
disclosure. Key management provides the foundation for the secure generation, storage,
distribution, use and destruction of keys.
Users and developers are presented with many choices in their use of cryptographic
mechanisms. Inappropriate choices may result in an illusion of security, but little or no real
security for the protocol or application. This Recommendation (i.e., Special Publication
(SP) 800-57) provides background information and establishes frameworks to support
appropriate decisions when selecting and using cryptographic mechanisms.
This Recommendation does not address the implementation details for cryptographic
modules that may be used to achieve the security requirements identified. These details are
addressed in Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 140 [FIPS 140] and its
associated implementation guidance and derived test requirements (available at
http://csrc.nist.gov/groups/STM/cmvp/).
This Recommendation is written for several different audiences and is divided into three
parts:
• Part 1, General, contains basic key management guidance. It is intended to advise
developers and system administrators on the "best practices" associated with key
management. Cryptographic module developers may benefit from this general
guidance by obtaining a greater understanding of the key management features that
are required to support specific, intended ranges of applications. Protocol
developers may identify key management characteristics associated with specific
suites of algorithms and gain a greater understanding of the security services
provided by those algorithms. System administrators may use this document to
determine which configuration settings are most appropriate for their information.
Part 1 of the Recommendation:
1. Defines the security services that may be provided and key types that may be
employed in using cryptographic mechanisms.
2. Provides background information regarding the cryptographic algorithms that
use cryptographic keying material.
3. Classifies the different types of keys and other cryptographic information
according to their functions, specifies the protection that each type of
information requires and identifies methods for providing this protection.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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iv
4. Identifies the states in which a cryptographic key may exist during its lifetime.
5. Identifies the multitude of functions involved in key management.
6. Discusses a variety of key management issues related to the keying material.
Topics discussed include key usage, cryptoperiod length, domain-parameter
validation, public-key validation, accountability, audit, key management system
survivability, and guidance for cryptographic algorithm and key size selection.
• Part 2, General Organization and Management Requirements, is intended primarily
to address the needs of system owners and managers. It provides a framework and
general guidance to support establishing cryptographic key management within an
organization and a basis for satisfying the key management aspects of statutory and
policy security planning requirements for Federal government organizations.
• Part 3, Implementation-Specific Key Management Guidance, is intended to address
the key management issues associated with currently available implementations.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary................................................................................................ iii
1 Introduction.......................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Goal/Purpose ...............................................................................................................1
1.2 Audience......................................................................................................................1
1.3 Scope ...........................................................................................................................2
1.4 Purpose of FIPS and NIST Recommendations (NIST Standards) ..............................3
1.5 Content and Organization............................................................................................4
2 Glossary of Terms and Acronyms...................................................................... 5
2.1 Glossary.......................................................................................................................5
2.2 Acronyms ..................................................................................................................16
3 Security Services............................................................................................... 18
3.1 Confidentiality...........................................................................................................18
3.2 Data Integrity.............................................................................................................18
3.3 Authentication ...........................................................................................................18
3.4 Authorization.............................................................................................................19
3.5 Non-repudiation.........................................................................................................19
3.6 Support Services........................................................................................................19
3.7 Combining Services...................................................................................................19
4 Cryptographic Algorithms ................................................................................ 22
4.1 Classes of Cryptographic Algorithms .......................................................................22
4.2 Cryptographic Algorithm Functionality....................................................................23
4.2.1 Hash Functions...................................................................................................23
4.2.2 Symmetric-Key Algorithms used for Encryption and Decryption.....................23
4.2.2.1 Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) .......................................................23
4.2.2.2 Triple DEA (TDEA) ...................................................................................24
4.2.2.3 Modes of Operation.....................................................................................24
4.2.3 Message Authentication Codes (MACs)............................................................24
4.2.3.1 MACs Using Block Cipher Algorithms......................................................25
4.2.3.2 MACs Using Hash Functions .....................................................................25
4.2.4 Digital Signature Algorithms .............................................................................25
4.2.5 Key Establishment Schemes ..............................................................................25
4.2.5.1 Discrete-Log Key-Agreement Schemes......................................................26
4.2.5.2 Key Establishment Using Integer-Factorization Schemes..........................26
4.2.5.3 Security Properties of the Key-Establishment Schemes.............................27
4.2.5.4 Key Encryption and Key Wrapping............................................................27
4.2.5.5 Key Confirmation........................................................................................27
4.2.6 Key Establishment Protocols .............................................................................28
4.2.7 Random Bit Generation......................................................................................28
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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5 General Key Management Guidance................................................................ 29
5. 1 Key Types and Other Information.............................................................................29
5.1.1 Cryptographic Keys............................................................................................29
5.1.2 Other Cryptographic or Related Information.....................................................31
5.2 Key Usage .................................................................................................................32
5.3 Cryptoperiods ............................................................................................................33
5.3.1 Risk Factors Affecting Cryptoperiods................................................................33
5.3.2 Consequence Factors Affecting Cryptoperiods..................................................34
5.3.3 Other Factors Affecting Cryptoperiods..............................................................34
5.3.3.1 Communications versus Storage.................................................................34
5.3.3.2 Cost of Key Revocation and Replacement .................................................35
5.3.4 Asymmetric Key Usage Periods and Cryptoperiods..........................................35
5.3.5 Symmetric Key Usage Periods and Cryptoperiods............................................36
5.3.6 Cryptoperiod Recommendations for Specific Key Types..................................37
5.3.7 Recommendations for Other Cryptographic or Related Information.................46
5.4 Assurances.................................................................................................................46
5.4.1 Assurance of Integrity (Integrity Protection) .....................................................46
5.4.2 Assurance of Domain Parameter Validity..........................................................46
5.4.3 Assurance of Public-Key Validity......................................................................47
5.4.4 Assurance of Private-Key Possession ................................................................47
5.5 Compromise of Keys and other Keying Material......................................................47
5.6 Guidance for Cryptographic Algorithm and Key-Size Selection..............................51
5.6.1 Comparable Algorithm Strengths.......................................................................51
5.6.2 Defining Appropriate Algorithm Suites.............................................................55
5.6.3 Using Algorithm Suites......................................................................................56
5.6.4 Transitioning to New Algorithms and Key Sizes...............................................57
5.6.5 Security Strength Reduction...............................................................................60
6 Protection Requirements for Cryptographic Information .............................. 62
6.1 Protection and Assurance Requirements...................................................................62
6.1.1 Summary of Protection and Assurance Requirements for Cryptographic Keys63
6.1.2 Summary of Protection Requirements for Other Cryptographic or Related
Information ......................................................................................................67
6.2 Protection Mechanisms .............................................................................................69
6.2.1 Protection Mechanisms for Cryptographic Information in Transit....................69
6.2.1.1 Availability..................................................................................................69
6.2.1.2 Integrity.......................................................................................................69
6.2.1.3 Confidentiality ............................................................................................70
6.2.1.4 Association with Usage or Application.......................................................71
6.2.1.5 Association with Other Entities ..................................................................71
6.2.1.6 Association with Other Related Information ..............................................71
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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6.2.2 Protection Mechanisms for Information in Storage ...........................................71
6.2.2.1 Availability..................................................................................................72
6.2.2.2 Integrity.......................................................................................................72
6.2.2.3 Confidentiality ...........................................................................................73
6.2.2.4 Association with Usage or Application.......................................................73
6.2.2.5 Association with the Other Entities.............................................................73
6.2.2.6 Association with Other Related Information ..............................................74
6.2.3 Metadata Associated with Cryptographic Information ......................................74
6.2.3.1 Metadata for Keys.......................................................................................74
6.2.3.2 Metadata for Related Cryptographic Information.......................................75
7 Key States and Transitions............................................................................... 76
7.1 Pre-activation State....................................................................................................77
7.2 Active State ...............................................................................................................78
7.3 Suspended State.........................................................................................................80
7.4 Deactivated State.......................................................................................................81
7.5 Compromised State ...................................................................................................82
7.6 Destroyed State..........................................................................................................83
8 Key-Management Phases and Functions ........................................................ 84
8.1 Pre-operational Phase ................................................................................................86
8.1.1 User Registration Function.................................................................................86
8.1.2 System Initialization Function ...........................................................................86
8.1.3 User Initialization Function................................................................................86
8.1.4 Keying-Material Installation Function...............................................................86
8.1.5 Key Establishment Function ..............................................................................87
8.1.5.1 Generation and Distribution of Asymmetric Key Pairs..............................87
8.1.5.1.1 Distribution of Static Public Keys................................................................. 88
8.1.5.1.1.1 Distribution of a Trust Anchor's Public Key in a PKI........................... 88
8.1.5.1.1.2 Submission to a Registration Authority or Certification Authority....... 90
8.1.5.1.1.3 General Distribution.............................................................................. 92
8.1.5.1.2 Distribution of Ephemeral Public Keys......................................................... 92
8.1.5.1.3 Distribution of Centrally Generated Key Pairs ............................................. 92
8.1.5.2 Generation and Distribution of Symmetric Keys........................................93
8.1.5.2.1 Key Generation ............................................................................................. 93
8.1.5.2.2 Key Distribution............................................................................................ 94
8.1.5.2.2.1 Manual Key Distribution....................................................................... 94
8.1.5.2.2.2 Automated Key Distribution/Key Transport/Key Wrapping ................ 94
8.1.5.2.3 Key Agreement ............................................................................................. 95
8.1.5.3 Generation and Distribution of Other Keying Material..............................96
8.1.5.3.1 Domain Parameters ....................................................................................... 96
8.1.5.3.2 Initialization Vectors..................................................................................... 96
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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8.1.5.3.3 Shared Secrets ............................................................................................... 96
8.1.5.3.4 RBG Seeds .................................................................................................... 97
8.1.5.3.5 Other Public and Secret Information............................................................. 97
8.1.5.3.6 Intermediate Results...................................................................................... 97
8.1.5.3.7 Random Bits/Numbers .................................................................................. 97
8.1.5.3.8 Passwords...................................................................................................... 97
8.1.6 Key Registration Function .................................................................................97
8.2 Operational Phase......................................................................................................98
8.2.1 Normal Operational Storage Function ...............................................................99
8.2.1.1 Cryptographic Module Storage...................................................................99
8.2.1.2 Immediately Accessible Storage Media......................................................99
8.2.2 Continuity of Operations Function.....................................................................99
8.2.2.1 Backup Storage ...........................................................................................99
8.2.2.2 Key Recovery Function ............................................................................101
8.2.3 Key Change Function.......................................................................................102
8.2.3.1 Re-keying..................................................................................................102
8.2.3.2 Key Update Function ................................................................................102
8.2.4 Key Derivation Methods ..................................................................................102
8.3 Post-Operational Phase............................................................................................103
8.3.1 Archive Storage and Key Recovery Functions ................................................103
8.3.2 Entity De-registration Function........................................................................107
8.3.3 Key De-registration Function...........................................................................107
8.3.4 Key Destruction Function ................................................................................108
8.3.5 Key Revocation Function.................................................................................108
8.4 Destroyed Phase ......................................................................................................109
9 Accountability, Audit, and Survivability ........................................................ 110
9.1 Accountability .........................................................................................................110
9.2 Audit........................................................................................................................110
9.3 Key Management System Survivability..................................................................111
9.3.1 Backup Keys ....................................................................................................111
9.3.2 Key Recovery...................................................................................................111
9.3.3 System Redundancy/Contingency Planning ....................................................112
9.3.3.1 General Principles.....................................................................................112
9.3.3.2 Cryptography and Key Management-specific Recovery Issues ...............113
9.3.4 Compromise Recovery.....................................................................................113
10 Key Management Specifications for Cryptographic Devices or Applications
.................................................................................................................. 115
10.1 Key Management Specification Description/Purpose.............................................115
10.2 Content of the Key Management Specification.......................................................115
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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10.2.1 Cryptographic Application...............................................................................116
10.2.2 Communications Environment.........................................................................116
10.2.3 Key Management Component Requirements ..................................................116
10.2.4 Key Management Component Generation.......................................................117
10.2.5 Key Management Component Distribution .....................................................117
10.2.6 Keying Material Storage ..................................................................................117
10.2.7 Access Control .................................................................................................117
10.2.8 Accounting .......................................................................................................117
10.2.9 Compromise Management and Recovery ........................................................118
10.2.10 Key Recovery..................................................................................................118
APPENDIX A: Cryptographic and Non-cryptographic Integrity and Source
Authentication Mechanisms .................................................................. 119
APPENDIX B: Key Recovery ............................................................................... 122
B.1 Recovery from Stored Keying Material ..................................................................123
B.2 Recovery by Reconstruction of Keying Material....................................................123
B.3 Conditions Under Which Keying Material Needs to be Recoverable.....................123
B.3.1 Signature Key Pairs..........................................................................................123
B.3.1.1 Private Signature Keys..............................................................................124
B.3.1.2 Public Signature-verification Keys ...........................................................124
B.3.2 Symmetric Authentication Keys ......................................................................124
B.3.3 Authentication Key Pairs .................................................................................125
B.3.3.1 Public Authentication Keys ......................................................................125
B.3.3.2 Private Authentication Keys .....................................................................126
B.3.4 Symmetric Data-Encryption Keys ...................................................................126
B.3.5 Symmetric Key-Wrapping Keys ......................................................................126
B.3.6 Random Number Generation Keys ..................................................................127
B.3.7 Symmetric Master Keys...................................................................................127
B.3.8 Key-Transport Key Pairs..................................................................................127
B.3.8.1 Private Key-Transport Keys......................................................................127
B.3.8.2 Public Key Transport Keys.......................................................................127
B.3.9 Symmetric Key Agreement Keys.....................................................................128
B.3.10 Static Key-Agreement Key Pairs .....................................................................128
B.3.10.1 Private Static Key-Agreement Keys .........................................................128
B.3.10.2 Public Static Key Agreement Keys...........................................................128
B.3.11 Ephemeral Key Pairs........................................................................................129
B.3.11.1 Private Ephemeral Keys.......................................................................129
B.3.11.2 Public Ephemeral Keys.............................................................................129
B.3.12 Symmetric Authorization Keys........................................................................129
B.3.13 Authorization Key Pairs...................................................................................129
B.3.13.1 Private Authorization Keys.......................................................................129
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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B.3.13.2 Public Authorization Keys........................................................................130
B.3.14 Other Cryptographically Related Material.......................................................130
B.3.14.1 Domain Parameters...................................................................................130
B.3.14.2 Initialization Vectors (IVs) .......................................................................130
B.3.14.3 Shared Secrets...........................................................................................130
B.3.14.4 RBG Seeds ................................................................................................130
B.3.14.5 Other Public and Secret Information.........................................................131
B.3.14.6 Intermediate Results..................................................................................131
B.3.14.7 Key Control Information...........................................................................131
B.3.14.8 Random Numbers .....................................................................................131
B.3.14.9 Passwords..................................................................................................131
B.3.14.10 Audit Information.................................................................................131
B.4 Key Recovery Systems............................................................................................131
B.5 Key Recovery Policy...............................................................................................133
APPENDIX C: References ................................................................................... 135
APPENDIX D: Revisions...................................................................................... 140
List of Tables
Table 1: Suggested cryptoperiods for key types......................................................................45
Table 2: Comparable strengths ................................................................................................53
Table 3: Hash functions that can be used to provide the targeted security strengths ..............54
Table 4: Security-strength time frames....................................................................................55
Table 5: Protection requirements for cryptographic keys........................................................64
Table 6: Protection requirements for other cryptographic or related material.........................67
Table 7: Backup of keys ........................................................................................................100
Table 8: Backup of other cryptographic or related information ............................................101
Table 9: Archive of keys........................................................................................................105
Table 10: Archive of other cryptographic related information..............................................106
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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List of Figures
Figure 1: Symmetric key cryptoperiod ....................................................................................37
Figure 2: Algorithm Originator-Usage Period Example..........................................................59
Figure 3: Key state and transition example..............................................................................76
Figure 4: Key management phases. .........................................................................................84
Figure 5: Key management states and phases..........................................................................85
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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1 Introduction
The use of cryptographic mechanisms is one of the strongest ways to provide security services
for electronic applications and protocols and for data storage. The National Institute of
Standards and Technology (NIST) publishes Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS)
and NIST Recommendations (which are published as Special Publications) that specify
cryptographic techniques for protecting sensitive, unclassified information.
Since NIST published the Data Encryption Standard (DES) in 1977, the suite of approved
standardized algorithms has been growing. New classes of algorithms have been added, such
as secure hash functions and asymmetric key algorithms for digital signatures. The suite of
algorithms now provides different levels of cryptographic strength through a variety of key
sizes. The algorithms may be combined in many ways to support increasingly complex
protocols and applications. This NIST Recommendation applies to U.S. government agencies
using cryptography for the protection of their sensitive, unclassified information. This
Recommendation may also be followed, on a voluntary basis, by other organizations that want
to implement sound security principles in their computer systems.
The proper management of cryptographic keys is essential to the effective use of cryptography
for security. Keys are analogous to the combination of a safe. If an adversary knows the
combination, the strongest safe provides no security against penetration. Similarly, poor key
management may easily compromise strong algorithms. Ultimately, the security of information
protected by cryptography directly depends on the strength of the keys, the effectiveness of the
mechanisms and protocols associated with the keys, and the protection afforded the keys.
Cryptography can be rendered ineffective by the use of weak products, inappropriate algorithm
pairing, poor physical security, and the use of weak protocols.
All keys need to be protected against unauthorized substitution and modification. Secret and
private keys need to be protected against unauthorized disclosure. Key management provides
the foundation for the secure generation, storage, distribution, and destruction of keys.
1.1 Goal/Purpose
Users and developers are presented with many new choices in their use of cryptographic
mechanisms. Inappropriate choices may result in an illusion of security, but little or no real
security for the protocol or application. This Recommendation (i.e., SP 800-57) provides
background information and establishes frameworks to support appropriate decisions when
selecting and using cryptographic mechanisms.
1.2 Audience
The audiences for this Recommendation for Key Management include system or application
owners and managers, cryptographic module developers, protocol developers, and system
administrators. The Recommendation has been provided in three parts. The different parts into
which the Recommendation has been divided have been tailored to specific audiences.
Part 1 of this Recommendation provides general key management guidance that is intended to
be useful to both system developers and system administrators. Cryptographic module
developers may benefit from this general guidance through a greater understanding of the key
management features that are required to support specific intended ranges of applications.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
Key Management: General
2
Protocol developers may identify key management characteristics associated with specific
suites of algorithms and gain a greater understanding of the security services provided by those
algorithms. System administrators may use this Recommendation to determine which
configuration settings are most appropriate for their information.
Part 2 of this Recommendation [SP800-57, Part 2] is tailored for system or application owners
for use in identifying appropriate organizational key management infrastructures, establishing
organizational key management policies, and specifying organizational key management
practices and plans.
Part 3 of this Recommendation addresses the key management issues associated with currently
available cryptographic mechanisms and is intended to provide guidance to system installers,
system administrators and end users of existing key management infrastructures, protocols, and
other applications, as well as the people making purchasing decisions for new systems using
currently available technology.
Although some background information and rationale are provided for context and to support
the recommendations, this document assumes that the reader has a basic understanding of
cryptography. For background material, readers may look to a variety of NIST and commercial
publications, including [SP800-32], which provides an introduction to a public-key
infrastructure.
1.3 Scope
This Recommendation encompasses cryptographic algorithms, infrastructures, protocols, and
applications, and the management thereof. All cryptographic algorithms currently approved by
NIST for the protection of unclassified, but sensitive information are in scope.
This Recommendation focuses on issues involving the management of cryptographic keys:
their generation, use, and eventual destruction. Related topics, such as algorithm selection and
appropriate key size, cryptographic policy, and cryptographic module selection, are also
included in this Recommendation. Some of the topics noted above are addressed in other NIST
standards and guidance. This Recommendation supplements more-focused standards and
guidelines.
This Recommendation does not address the implementation details for cryptographic modules
that may be used to achieve the security requirements identified. These details are addressed in
[FIPS140], the FIPS 140 implementation guidance and the derived test requirements (available
at http://csrc.nist.gov/ groups/STM/cmvp/standards.html).
This Recommendation also does not address the requirements or procedures for operating an
archive, other than discussing the types of keying material that are appropriate to include in an
archive and the protection to be provided to the archived keying material.
This Recommendation often uses “requirement” terms; these terms have the following
meaning in this document:
1. shall: This term is used to indicate a requirement of a Federal Information Processing
Standard (FIPS) or a requirement that must be fulfilled to claim conformance to this
Recommendation. Note that shall may be coupled with not to become shall not.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
Key Management: General
3
2. should: This term is used to indicate an important recommendation. Ignoring the
recommendation could result in undesirable results. Note that should may be coupled
with not to become should not.
1.4 Purpose of FIPS and NIST Recommendations (NIST Standards)
Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) and NIST Recommendations, collectively
referred to as "NIST standards," are valuable because:
1. They establish an acceptable minimal level of security for U.S. government systems.
Systems that implement these NIST standards offer a consistent level of security
approved for the protection of sensitive, unclassified government data.
2. They often establish some level of interoperability between different systems that
implement the NIST standard. For example, two products that both implement the
Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) cryptographic algorithm have the potential to
interoperate, provided that the other functions of the product are compatible.
3. They often provide for scalability, because the U.S. government requires products and
techniques that can be effectively applied in large numbers.
4. They are scrutinized by U.S. government experts and the public to ensure that they
provide a high level of security. The NIST standards process invites broad public
participation, not only through the formal NIST public review process before adoption,
but also by interaction with the open cryptographic community through NIST
workshops, participation in voluntary standards development organizations,
participation in cryptographic research conferences and informal contacts with
researchers. NIST encourages study and cryptanalysis of NIST standards, and inputs
on their security are welcome at any point, from initial requirements, during
development and after adoption.
5. NIST-approved cryptographic techniques are periodically re-assessed for their
continued effectiveness. If any technique is found to be inadequate for the continued
protection of government information, the NIST standard is revised or discontinued.
6. The algorithms specified in NIST standards (e.g., AES, TDEA, SHA-2, and DSA) and
the cryptographic modules in which they reside have required conformance tests.
Accredited laboratories perform these tests on vendor implementations that claim
conformance to the standards. Vendors are permitted to modify non-conforming
implementations so that they meet all applicable requirements. Users of validated
implementations can have a high degree of confidence that validated implementations
conform to the standards.
Since 1977, NIST has developed a cryptographic “toolkit” of NIST standards1
that form a
basis for the implementation of approved cryptography. This Recommendation references
many of those standards, and provides guidance on how they may be properly used to protect
sensitive information.
1
The toolkit consists of publications specifying algorithms and guidance for their use, rather than software code.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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1.5 Content and Organization
Part 1, General Guidance, contains basic key management guidance. It is intended to advise
developers and system administrators on the "best practices" associated with key management.
• Section 1, Introduction, establishes the purpose, scope and intended audience of the
Recommendation for Key Management
• Section 2, Glossary of Terms and Acronyms, provides definitions of terms and
acronyms used in this part of the Recommendation for Key Management. The reader
should be aware that the terms used in this Recommendation might be defined
differently in other documents.
• Section 3, Security Services, defines the security services that may be provided using
cryptographic mechanisms.
• Section 4, Cryptographic Algorithms, provides background information regarding the
cryptographic algorithms that use cryptographic keying material.
• Section 5, General Key Management Guidance, classifies the different types of keys
and other cryptographic information according to their uses, discusses cryptoperiods
and recommends appropriate cryptoperiods for each key type, provides
recommendations and requirements for other keying material, introduces assurance of
domain-parameter and public-key validity, discusses the implications of the
compromise of keying material, and provides guidance on cryptographic algorithm
strength selection implementation and replacement.
• Section 6, Protection Requirements for Cryptographic Information, specifies the
protection that each type of information requires and identifies methods for providing
this protection. These protection requirements are of particular interest to cryptographic
module vendors and application implementers.
• Section 7, Key State and Transitions, identifies the states in which a cryptographic key
may exist during its lifetime.
• Section 8, Key Management Phases and Functions, identifies four phases and a
multitude of functions involved in key management. This section is of particular
interest to cryptographic module vendors and developers of cryptographic
infrastructure services.
• Section 9, Accountability, Audit, and Survivability, discusses three control principles
that are used to protect the keying material identified in Section 5.1.
• Section 10, Key Management Specifications for Cryptographic Devices or
Applications, specifies the content and requirements for key management
specifications. Topics covered include the communications environment, component
requirements, keying material storage, access control, accounting, and compromise
recovery.
Appendices A and B are provided to supplement the main text where a topic demands a more
detailed treatment. Appendix C contains a list of appropriate references, and Appendix D
contains a list of changes since the originally published version of this document.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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2 Glossary of Terms and Acronyms
The definitions provided below are defined as used in this document. The same terms may be
defined differently in other documents.
2.1 Glossary
Access control Restricts resource access to only privileged entities.
Accountability A property that ensures that the actions of an entity may be traced
uniquely to that entity.
Algorithm originatorusage
period
The period of time during which a specific cryptographic algorithm
may be used by originators to apply protection to data (e.g., encrypt or
generate a digital signature).
Algorithm security
lifetime
The estimated time period during which data protected by a specific
cryptographic algorithm remains secure.
Approved FIPS-approved and/or NIST-recommended. An algorithm or
technique that is either 1) specified in a FIPS or NIST
Recommendation, or 2) specified elsewhere and adopted by reference
in a FIPS or NIST Recommendation.
Archive 1. To place information into long-term storage.
2. A location or media used for long-term storage.
Association A relationship for a particular purpose. For example, a key is
associated with the application or process for which it will be used.
Assurance of (private
key) possession
Confidence that an entity possesses a private key and its associated
keying material.
Assurance of validity Confidence that a public key or domain parameter is arithmetically
correct.
Asymmetric key
algorithm
See Public-key cryptographic algorithm.
Authentication A process that provides assurance of the source and integrity of
information in communications sessions, messages, documents or
stored data.
Authentication code A keyed cryptographic checksum based on an approved security
function (also known as a Message Authentication Code).
Authorization Access privileges that are granted to an entity; conveying an “official”
sanction to perform a security function or activity.
Availability Timely, reliable access to information by authorized entities.
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Backup A copy of information to facilitate recovery during the cryptoperiod of
the key, if necessary.
Certificate See Public-key certificate.
Certification authority The entity in a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) that issues certificates
to certificate subjects.
Ciphertext Data in its encrypted form.
Collision Two or more distinct inputs produce the same output. Also see Hash
function.
Compromise The unauthorized disclosure, modification, substitution or use of
sensitive data (e.g., keying material and other security-related
information).
Confidentiality The property that sensitive information is not disclosed to unauthorized
entities.
Contingency plan A plan that is maintained for disaster response, backup operations, and
post-disaster recovery to ensure the availability of critical resources
and to facilitate the continuity of operations in an emergency situation.
Contingency planning The development of a contingency plan.
Cryptanalysis 1. Operations performed to defeat cryptographic protection without an
initial knowledge of the key employed in providing the protection.
2. The study of mathematical techniques for attempting to defeat
cryptographic techniques and information system security. This
includes the process of looking for errors or weaknesses in the
implementation of an algorithm or in the algorithm itself.
Cryptographic
algorithm
A well-defined computational procedure that takes variable inputs,
including a cryptographic key, and produces an output.
Cryptographic
boundary
An explicitly defined continuous perimeter that establishes the physical
bounds of a cryptographic module and contains all hardware, software,
and/or firmware components of a cryptographic module.
Cryptographic hash
function
See Hash function.
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Cryptographic key
(key)
A parameter used in conjunction with a cryptographic algorithm that
determines its operation in such a way that an entity with knowledge of
the key can reproduce, reverse or verify the operation, while an entity
without knowledge of the key cannot. Examples include:
1. The transformation of plaintext data into ciphertext data,
2. The transformation of ciphertext data into plaintext data,
3. The computation of a digital signature from data,
4. The verification of a digital signature on data,
5. The computation of an authentication code from data,
6. The verification of an authentication code from data and a
received authentication code,
7. The computation of a shared secret that is used to derive keying
material.
Cryptographic key
component (key
component)
One of at least two parameters that have the same security properties
(e.g., randomness) as a cryptographic key; parameters are combined in
an approved security function to form a plaintext cryptographic key
before use.
Cryptographic module The set of hardware, software, and/or firmware that implements
approved security functions (including cryptographic algorithms and
key generation) and is contained within a cryptographic boundary.
Cryptoperiod The time span during which a specific key is authorized for use or in
which the keys for a given system or application may remain in effect.
Data-encryption key A key used to encrypt and decrypt information other than keys.
Data integrity A property whereby data has not been altered in an unauthorized
manner since it was created, transmitted or stored.
Decryption The process of changing ciphertext into plaintext using a cryptographic
algorithm and key.
Deterministic random
bit generator (DRBG)
A random bit generator that includes a DRBG algorithm and (at least
initially) has access to a source of randomness. The DRBG produces a
sequence of bits from a secret initial value called a seed, along with
other possible inputs. A cryptographic DRBG has the additional
property that the output is unpredictable, given that the seed is not
known. A DRBG is sometimes also called a Pseudo-random Number
Generator (PRNG) or a deterministic random number generator.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Digital signature The result of a cryptographic transformation of data that, when
properly implemented with a supporting infrastructure and policy,
provides the services of:
1. Origin (i.e., source) authentication,
2. Data integrity authentication, and
3. Support for signer non-repudiation.
Distribution See Key distribution.
Domain parameter A parameter used in conjunction with some public-key algorithms to
generate key pairs, to create digital signatures, or to establish keying
material.
Encrypted key A cryptographic key that has been encrypted using an approved
security function in order to disguise the value of the underlying
plaintext key.
Encryption The process of changing plaintext into ciphertext using a cryptographic
algorithm and key.
Entity An individual (person), organization, device or process.
Ephemeral key A cryptographic key that is generated for each execution of a keyestablishment
process and that meets other requirements of the key
type (e.g., unique to each message or session).
In some cases, ephemeral keys are used more than once within a single
session (e.g., for broadcast applications) where the sender generates
only one ephemeral key pair per message, and the private key is
combined separately with each recipient’s public key.
Hash-based message
authentication code
(HMAC)
A message authentication code that uses an approved keyed-hash
function (i.e., [FIPS 198]).
Hash function A function that maps a bit string of arbitrary (although bounded) length
to a fixed-length bit string. Approved hash functions satisfy the
following properties:
1. (One-way) It is computationally infeasible to find any input that
maps to any pre-specified output, and
2. (Collision resistant) It is computationally infeasible to find any
two distinct inputs that map to the same output.
Hash value The result of applying a hash function to information.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Identifier A bit string that is associated with a person, device or organization. It
may be an identifying name, or may be something more abstract (for
example, a string consisting of an IP address and timestamp),
depending on the application.
Identity The distinguishing character or personality of an entity.
Initialization vector
(IV)
A vector used in defining the starting point of a cryptographic process.
Integrity (also,
Assurance of integrity)
See Data integrity.
Integrity
authentication
The process of providing assurance that data has not been modified
since an authentication code was created for that data.
Integrity protection See Integrity authentication.
Key See Cryptographic key.
Key agreement A key-establishment procedure where resultant keying material is a
function of information contributed by two or more participants, so
that no party can predetermine the value of the keying material
independently of any other party’s contribution.
Key component See Cryptographic key component.
Key confirmation A procedure used to provide assurance to one party that another party
actually possesses the same keying material and/or shared secret.
Key de-registration A function in the lifecycle of keying material; the marking of all
keying material records and associations to indicate that the key is no
longer in use.
Key derivation The process by which one or more keys are derived from either a preshared
key or a shared secret (from a key-agreement scheme), along
with other information.
Key-derivation
function
A function that, with the input of a cryptographic key or shared secret,
and possibly other data, generates a binary string, called keying
material.
Key-derivation key A key used with a key-derivation function or method to derive
additional keys. Sometimes called a master key.
Key-derivation
method
A key-derivation function or other approved procedure for deriving
keying material.
Key destruction To remove all traces of keying material so that it cannot be recovered
by either physical or electronic means.
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Key distribution The transport of a key and other keying material from an entity that
either owns or generates the key to another entity that is intended to
use the key.
Key-encrypting key A cryptographic key that is used for the encryption or decryption of
other keys to provide confidentiality protection. Also see Keywrapping
key.
Key establishment A function in the lifecycle of keying material; the process by which
cryptographic keys are securely established among cryptographic
modules using manual transport methods (e.g., key loaders), automated
methods (e.g., key-transport and/or key-agreement protocols), or a
combination of automated and manual methods.
Key length The length of a key in bits; used interchangeably with “Key size”.
Key management The activities involving the handling of cryptographic keys and other
related security parameters (e.g., initialization vectors) during the
entire lifecycle of the keys, including their generation, storage,
establishment, entry and output, use and destruction.
Key Management
Policy
A high-level statement of organizational key management policies that
identifies a high-level structure, responsibilities, governing standards,
organizational dependencies and other relationships, and security
policies.
Key Management
Practices Statement
A document or set of documents that describes, in detail, the
organizational structure, responsible roles, and organization rules for
the functions identified in the Key Management Policy.
Key pair A public key and its corresponding private key; a key pair is used with
a public-key algorithm.
Key recovery A function in the lifecycle of keying material; mechanisms and
processes that allow authorized entities to retrieve or reconstruct
keying material from key backup or archive.
Key registration A function in the lifecycle of keying material; the process of officially
recording the keying material by a registration authority.
Key revocation A function in the lifecycle of keying material; a process whereby a
notice is made available to affected entities that keying material should
be removed from operational use prior to the end of the established
cryptoperiod of that keying material.
Key size The length of a key in bits; used interchangeably with “Key length”.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Key transport A key-establishment procedure whereby one party (the sender) selects
and encrypts (or wraps) the keying material and then distributes the
material to another party (the receiver).
When used in conjunction with a public-key (asymmetric) algorithm,
the keying material is encrypted using the public key of the receiver
and subsequently decrypted using the private key of the receiver.
When used in conjunction with a symmetric algorithm, the keying
material is encrypted with a key-wrapping key shared by the two
parties.
Key update A function performed on a cryptographic key in order to compute a
new key that is related to the old key.
Key wrapping A method of cryptographically protecting keys using a symmetric key
that provides both confidentiality and integrity protection.
Key-wrapping key A symmetric key-encrypting key that is used to provide both
confidentiality and integrity protection. Also see Key-encrypting key.
Keying material The data (e.g., keys and IVs) necessary to establish and maintain
cryptographic keying relationships.
Manual key transport A non-automated means of transporting cryptographic keys by
physically moving a device or document containing the key or key
component.
Master key See Key-derivation key.
Message
authentication code
(MAC)
A cryptographic checksum on data that uses an approved security
function and a symmetric key to detect both accidental and intentional
modifications of data.
Metadata Information used to describe specific characteristics, constraints,
acceptable uses and parameters of another data item (e.g., a
cryptographic key).
NIST standards Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) and NIST
Recommendations.
Non-repudiation A service using a digital signature that is used to support a
determination of whether a message was actually signed by a given
entity.
Operational phase A phase in the lifecycle of keying material whereby keying material is
used for standard cryptographic purposes.
Operational storage The normal storage of operational keying material during its
cryptoperiod.
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Owner For a static key pair, the entity that is associated with the public key
and authorized to use the private key. For an ephemeral key pair, the
owner is the entity that generated the public/private key pair. For a
symmetric key, the owner is any entity that is authorized to use the
key.
Originator-usage
period
The period of time in the cryptoperiod of a key during which
cryptographic protection may be applied to data using that key.
Password A string of characters (letters, numbers and other symbols) that are
used to authenticate an identity, to verify access authorization or to
derive cryptographic keys.
Period of protection The period of time during which the integrity and/or confidentiality of
a key needs to be maintained.
Plaintext Intelligible data that has meaning and can be understood without the
application of decryption.
Private key A cryptographic key, used with a public-key cryptographic algorithm
that is uniquely associated with an entity and is not made public. In an
asymmetric (public) cryptosystem, the private key has a corresponding
public key. Depending on the algorithm, the private key may be used,
for example, to:
1. Compute the corresponding public key,
2. Compute a digital signature that may be verified by the
corresponding public key,
3. Decrypt keys that were encrypted by the corresponding public
key, or
4. Compute a shared secret during a key-agreement transaction.
Proof of possession
(POP)
A verification process whereby assurance is obtained that the owner of
a key pair actually has the private key associated with the public key.
Pseudorandom
number generator
(PRNG)
See Deterministic random bit generator (DRBG).
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Public key A cryptographic key, used with a public-key cryptographic algorithm,
that is uniquely associated with an entity and that may be made public.
In an asymmetric (public) cryptosystem, the public key has a
corresponding private key. The public key may be known by anyone
and, depending on the algorithm, may be used, for example, to:
1. Verify a digital signature that is signed by the corresponding
private key,
2. Encrypt keys that can be decrypted using the corresponding
private key, or
3. Compute a shared secret during a key-agreement transaction.
Public-key certificate A set of data that uniquely identifies an entity, contains the entity's
public key and possibly other information, and is digitally signed by a
trusted party, thereby binding the public key to the entity. Additional
information in the certificate could specify how the key is used and its
validity period.
Public-key
(asymmetric)
cryptographic
algorithm
A cryptographic algorithm that uses two related keys: a public key and
a private key. The two keys have the property that determining the
private key from the public key is computationally infeasible.
Public Key
Infrastructure (PKI)
A framework that is established to issue, maintain and revoke publickey
certificates.
Random bit generator
(RBG)
A device or algorithm that outputs a sequence of bits that appears to be
statistically independent and unbiased. Also, see Random number
generator.
Random number
generator (RNG)
A process used to generate an unpredictable series of numbers. Also
called a Random bit generator (RBG).
Recipient-usage
period
The period of time during which the protected information is processed
(e.g., decrypted).
Registration authority A trusted entity that establishes and vouches for the identity of a user.
Retention period The minimum amount of time that a key or other cryptographically
related information should be retained in an archive.
RBG seed A string of bits that is used to initialize a DRBG. Also just called a
Seed.
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Secret key A cryptographic key that is used with a secret-key (symmetric)
cryptographic algorithm that is uniquely associated with one or more
entities and is not made public. The use of the term “secret” in this
context does not imply a classification level, but rather implies the
need to protect the key from disclosure.
Secure communication
protocol
A communication protocol that provides the appropriate
confidentiality, source authentication, and data integrity protection.
Security domain A system or subsystem that is under the authority of a single trusted
authority. Security domains may be organized (e.g., hierarchically) to
form larger domains.
Security life of data The time period during which the security of the data needs to be
protected (e.g., its confidentiality, integrity or availability).
Security services Mechanisms used to provide confidentiality, integrity authentication,
source authentication and/or support non-repudiation of information.
Security strength
(Also “bits of
security”)
A number associated with the amount of work (that is, the number of
operations) that is required to break a cryptographic algorithm or
system. In this Recommendation, the security strength is specified in
bits and is a specific value from the set {80, 112, 128, 192, 256}. Note
that a security strength of 80 bits is no longer considered sufficiently
secure.
Seed A secret value that is used to initialize a process (e.g., a DRBG). Also
see RBG seed.
Self-signed certificate A public-key certificate whose digital signature may be verified by the
public key contained within the certificate. The signature on a selfsigned
certificate protects the integrity of the data, but does not
guarantee the authenticity of the information. The trust of self-signed
certificates is based on the secure procedures used to distribute them.
Shall This term is used to indicate a requirement of a Federal Information
Processing Standard (FIPS) or a requirement that must be fulfilled to
claim conformance to this Recommendation. Note that shall may be
coupled with not to become shall not.
Shared secret A secret value that has been computed using a key-agreement scheme
and is used as input to a key-derivation function/method.
Should This term is used to indicate a very important recommendation.
Ignoring the recommendation could result in undesirable results. Note
that should may be coupled with not to become should not.
Signature generation The use of a digital signature algorithm and a private key to generate a
digital signature on data.
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Signature verification The use of a digital signature algorithm and a public key to verify a
digital signature on data.
Source authentication The process of providing assurance about the source of information.
Sometimes called identity authentication or origin authentication.
Split knowledge A process by which a cryptographic key is split into n key components,
each of which provides no knowledge of the original key. The
components can be subsequently combined to recreate the original
cryptographic key. If knowledge of k (where k is less than or equal to
n) components is required to construct the original key, then
knowledge of any k – 1 key components provides no information about
the original key other than, possibly, its length.
Note that in this Recommendation, split knowledge is not intended to
cover key shares, such as those used in threshold or multi-party
signatures.
Static key A key that is intended for use for a relatively long period of time and is
typically intended for use in many instances of a cryptographic keyestablishment
scheme. Contrast with an Ephemeral key.
Symmetric key A single cryptographic key that is used with a secret (symmetric) key
algorithm.
Symmetric-key
algorithm
A cryptographic algorithm that uses the same secret key for an
operation and its complement (e.g., encryption and decryption).
System initialization A function in the lifecycle of keying material; setting up and
configuring a system for secure operation.
Trust anchor 1. An authoritative entity for which trust is assumed. In a PKI, a trust
anchor is a certification authority, which is represented by a certificate
that is used to verify the signature on a certificate issued by that trustanchor.
The security of the validation process depends upon the
authenticity and integrity of the trust anchor's certificate. Trust anchor
certificates are often distributed as self-signed certificates.
2. The self-signed public key certificate of a trusted CA.
Unauthorized
disclosure
An event involving the exposure of information to entities not
authorized access to the information.
User See Entity.
User initialization A function in the lifecycle of keying material; the process whereby a
user initializes its cryptographic application (e.g., installing and
initializing software and hardware).
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User registration A function in the lifecycle of keying material; a process whereby an
entity becomes a member of a security domain.
X.509 certificate The X.509 public-key certificate or the X.509 attribute certificate, as
defined by the ISO/ITU-T X.509 standard. Most commonly (including
in this document), an X.509 certificate refers to the X.509 public-key
certificate.
X.509 public-key
certificate
A digital certificate containing a public key for an entity and a name
for that entity, together with some other information that is rendered
un-forgeable by the digital signature of the certification authority that
issued the certificate, encoded in the format defined in the ISO/ITU-T
X.509 standard.
2.2 Acronyms
The following abbreviations and acronyms are used in this Recommendation:
2TDEA Two-key Triple Data Encryption Algorithm specified in [SP800-67].
3TDEA Three-key Triple Data Encryption Algorithm specified in [SP800-67].
AES Advanced Encryption Standard specified in [FIPS197].
ANS American National Standard.
ANSI American National Standards Institute.
CA Certification Authority.
CRC Cyclic Redundancy Check.
CRL Certificate Revocation List.
DRBG Deterministic Random Bit Generator.
DSA Digital Signature Algorithm specified in [FIPS186].
ECC Elliptic Curve Cryptography.
ECDSA Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm specified in [ANSX9.62] and
approved in [FIPS186].
FFC Finite Field Cryptography.
FIPS Federal Information Processing Standard.
HMAC Keyed-Hash Message Authentication Code specified in [FIPS198].
IFC Integer Factorization Cryptography.
IV Initialization Vector.
MAC Message Authentication Code.
NIST National Institute of Standards and Technology.
PKI Public-Key Infrastructure.
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POP Proof of Possession.
RA Registration Authority.
RBG Random Bit Generator.
RNG Random Number Generator.
RSA Rivest, Shamir, Adelman; an algorithm approved in [FIPS186] for digital
signatures and in [SP800-56B] for key establishment.
S/MIME Secure Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions.
TDEA Triple Data Encryption Algorithm; Triple DEA specified in [SP800-67].
TLS Transport Layer Security
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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3 Security Services
Cryptography may be used to perform or support several basic security services:
confidentiality, integrity authentication, source authentication, authorization and nonrepudiation.
These services may also be required to protect cryptographic keying material. In
addition, there are other cryptographic and non-cryptographic mechanisms that are used to
support these security services. In general, a single cryptographic mechanism may provide
more than one service (e.g., the use of digital signatures can provide integrity authentication,
and source authentication), but not all services.
3.1 Confidentiality
Confidentiality is the property whereby information is not disclosed to unauthorized parties.
Secrecy is a term that is often used synonymously with confidentiality. Confidentiality using
cryptography is achieved using encryption to render the information unintelligible except by
authorized entities. The information may become intelligible again by using decryption. In
order for encryption to provide confidentiality, the cryptographic algorithm and mode of
operation must be designed and implemented so that an unauthorized party cannot determine
the secret or private keys associated with the encryption or be able to derive the plaintext
directly without using the correct keys.
3.2 Data Integrity
Data integrity is a property whereby data has not been modified in an unauthorized manner
since it was created, transmitted or stored. Modification includes the insertion, deletion and
substitution of data. Cryptographic mechanisms, such as message authentication codes or
digital signatures, can be used to detect (with a high probability) both accidental modifications
(e.g., modifications that sometimes occur during noisy transmissions or by hardware memory
failures) and deliberate modifications by an adversary. Non-cryptographic mechanisms are also
often used to detect accidental modifications, but cannot be relied upon to detect deliberate
modifications. A more detailed treatment of this subject is provided in Appendix A.
In this Recommendation, the statement that a cryptographic algorithm "provides data integrity"
means that the algorithm is used to detect unauthorized modifications. Authenticating integrity
is discussed in the next section.
3.3 Authentication
Two types of authentication services can be provided using cryptography: integrity
authentication and source authentication.
• An integrity authentication service is used to verify that data has not been modified,
i.e., this service provides integrity protection.
• A source authentication service is used to verify the identity of the user or system that
created information (e.g., a transaction or message).
Several cryptographic mechanisms may be used to provide authentication services. Most
commonly, digital signatures or message authentication codes are used to provide
authentication; some key-agreement techniques also provide an authentication service.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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When multiple individuals are permitted to share the same source authentication information
(such as a password or cryptographic key), it is sometimes called role-based authentication.
See [FIPS140].
3.4 Authorization
Authorization is concerned with providing an official sanction or permission to perform a
security function or activity (e.g., accessing a room). Authorization is considered as a security
service that is often supported by a cryptographic service. Normally, authorization is granted
only after the execution of a successful source authentication2
service. A non-cryptographic
analog of the interaction between source authentication and authorization is the examination of
an individual’s credentials to establish their identity (the source authentication process); after
verifying the individual's identity and verifying that the individual is authorized access to some
resource, such as a locked room, the individual is then provided with the key (e.g., an
authorization key) or password that will allow access to that resource.
Source authentication can also be used to authorize a role (such as a system administrator or
audit role), rather than to identify an individual. Once authenticated for a role, an entity is
authorized for all the privileges associated with that role.
3.5 Non-repudiation
In key management, non-repudiation is a term associated with digital signature keys and digital
certificates that bind the name of the certificate subject to a public key. When non-repudiation
is indicated for a digital signature key, it means that the signatures created by that key support
not only the usual integrity and source authentication services of digital signatures, but also
may (depending upon the context of the signature) indicate commitment by the certificate
subject, in the same sense that a handwritten signature on a document may indicate
commitment to a contract.
A real determination of non-repudiation is a legal decision with many aspects to be considered.
Cryptographic mechanisms can only be used as one element in this decision (i.e., a digital
signature can only be used to support a non-repudiation decision).
3.6 Support Services
The basic cryptographic security services discussed above often require other supporting
services. For example, cryptographic services often require the use of key establishment and
random number generation services.
3.7 Combining Services
In many applications, a combination of security services (confidentiality, integrity
authentication, source authentication, and support for non-repudiation) is desired. Designers of
secure systems often begin by considering which security services are needed to protect the
information contained within and processed by the system. After these services have been
determined, the designer then considers what mechanisms will best provide these services. Not
all mechanisms are cryptographic in nature. For example, physical security may be used to
protect the confidentiality of certain types of data, and identification badges or biometric
2
Sometimes referred to as identity authentication.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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identification devices may be used for source authentication. However, cryptographic
mechanisms consisting of algorithms, keys, and other keying material often provide the most
cost-effective means of protecting the security of information. This is particularly true in
applications where the information would otherwise be exposed to unauthorized entities.
When properly implemented, some cryptographic algorithms provide multiple services. The
following examples illustrate this case:
1. A message authentication code (Section 4.2.3) can provide source authentication, as
well as integrity authentication if the symmetric keys are unique to each pair of users.
2. A digital signature algorithm (Section 4.2.4) can provide source authentication and
integrity authentication, as well as support a non-repudiation decision.
3. Certain modes of encryption can provide confidentiality, integrity authentication, and
source authentication when properly implemented. These modes should be specifically
designed to provide these services.
However, it is often the case that different algorithms need to be employed in order to provide
all the desired services.
Examples:
Consider a system where the secure exchange of information between pairs of Internet
entities is needed. Some of the exchanged information requires just integrity protection,
while other information requires both integrity and confidentiality protection. It is also a
requirement that each entity that participates in an information exchange knows the identity
of the other entity.
The designers of this example system decide that a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) needs
to be established and that each entity wishing to communicate securely is required to
physically prove his or her identity to a Registration Authority (RA). This identity-proving
process requires the presentation of proper credentials, such as a driver’s license, passport
or birth certificate. After establishing the correct identity, an individual then generates a
public static key pair; each individual that generates a key pair is considered to be the
owner of that key pair. The public key of the key pair is provided to the RA, where it is
incorporated with the key-pair owner’s identifier and other information into a digitally
signed message for transmission to a Certification Authority (CA). The CA then composes
the key-pair owner’s public-key certificate by signing the owner's public key and the
identifier, along with other information. This certificate is returned to the key-pair owner or
placed in a certificate repository or both. The private key remains under the sole control of
the owner.
Two types of public key certificates are commonly used: certificates used for key
establishment (i.e., key agreement or key transport) and certificates used for digital
signatures.
In the case of key-agreement certificates, two entities wishing to communicate may
exchange public-key certificates containing public static key-agreement keys that are
checked by verifying the CA’s signature on the certificate (using the CA’s public key). The
public static key-agreement key of each of the two entities and each entity's own private
static key-agreement key are then used in a key-agreement scheme to produce a shared
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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secret that is known by the two entities. The shared secret may then be used to derive one
or more shared symmetric keys to be used by a symmetric algorithm to provide
confidentiality and/or integrity protection for data. The receiver of the data protected by the
symmetric key(s) has assurance that the data came from the other entity indicated by the
public-key certificate (i.e., source authentication for the symmetric keys has been
obtained).
In the case of digital signature certificates, one entity (i.e., a signatory) signs data using the
private key and sends the signed data to an intended recipient. The recipient obtains the
signatory’s public key certificate (e.g., from the recipient or some repository), verifies the
certificate using the CA’s public key, and then uses the public key in the certificate (i.e.,
the public key corresponding to the private key used by the signatory) to verify the
signature on the received data. By using this process, the recipient obtains assurances of
both the integrity and the source of the received data.
The above examples provide basic sketches of how cryptographic algorithms may be used to
support multiple security services. However, it can be easily seen that the security of such
systems depend on many factors, including:
a. The strength of the entity’s credentials (e.g., driver’s license, passport or birth
certificate) and the identity authentication process,
b. The strength of the cryptographic algorithms used,
c. The degree of trust placed in the RA and the CA,
d. The strength of the key-establishment protocols, and
e. The care taken by the users in generating their keys and protecting them from
unauthorized use.
Therefore, the design of a security system that provides the desired security services by making
use of cryptographic algorithms and sound key-management techniques requires a high degree
of skill and expertise.
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4 Cryptographic Algorithms
FIPS-approved or NIST-recommended cryptographic algorithms shall be used whenever
cryptographic services are required. These approved algorithms have received an intensive
security analysis prior to their approval and continue to be examined to determine that the
algorithms provide adequate security. Most cryptographic algorithms require cryptographic
keys or other keying material. In some cases, an algorithm may be strengthened by the use of
larger keys. This Recommendation advises the users of cryptographic mechanisms on the
appropriate choices of algorithms and key sizes.
This section describes the approved cryptographic algorithms that provide security services,
such as confidentiality, integrity authentication, and source authentication.
4.1 Classes of Cryptographic Algorithms
There are three basic classes of approved cryptographic algorithms: hash functions,
symmetric-key algorithms and asymmetric-key algorithms. The classes are defined by the
number of cryptographic keys that are used in conjunction with the algorithm.
Cryptographic hash functions do not require keys for their basic operation. Hash functions
generate a relatively small digest (hash value) from a (possibly) large input in a way that is
fundamentally one-way (i.e., it is difficult to find an input that will produce a given output).
Hash functions are used as building blocks for key management, for example,
1. To provide source and integrity authentication services (Section 4.2.3) – the hash
function is used with a key to generate a message authentication code;
2. To compress messages for digital signature generation and verification (Section 4.2.4);
3. To derive keys in key-establishment algorithms (Section 4.2.5); and
4. To generate deterministic random numbers (Section 4.2.7).
Symmetric-key algorithms (sometimes known as secret-key algorithms) transform data in a
way that is fundamentally difficult to undo without knowledge of a secret key. The key is
“symmetric” because the same key is used for a cryptographic operation and its inverse (e.g.,
encryption and decryption). Symmetric keys are often known by more than one entity;
however, the key shall not be disclosed to entities that are not authorized access to the data
protected by that algorithm and key. Symmetric key algorithms are used, for example,
1. To provide data confidentiality (Section 4.2.2); the same key is used to encrypt and
decrypt data;
2. To provide source and integrity authentication services (Section 4.2.3) in the form of
Message Authentication Codes (MACs); the same key is used to generate the MAC and
to validate it. MACs normally employ either a symmetric key-encryption algorithm or a
cryptographic hash function as their cryptographic primitive;
3. As part of the key-establishment process (Section 4.2.5); and
4. To generate deterministic random numbers (Section 4.2.7).
Asymmetric-key algorithms, commonly known as public-key algorithms, use two related keys
(i.e., a key pair) to perform their functions: a public key and a private key. The public key may
be known by anyone; the private key should be under the sole control of the entity that “owns”
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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the key pair3
. Even though the public and private keys of a key pair are related, knowledge of
the public key cannot be used to determine the private key. Asymmetric algorithms are used,
for example,
1. To compute digital signatures (Section 4.2.4), and
2. To establish cryptographic keying material (Section 4.2.5)
4.2 Cryptographic Algorithm Functionality
Security services are fulfilled using a number of different algorithms. In many cases, the same
algorithm may be used to provide multiple services.
4.2.1 Hash Functions
Many algorithms and schemes that provide a security service use a hash function as a
component of the algorithm. Hash functions are used by digital signature algorithms (see
[FIPS186]), Keyed-Hash Message Authentication Codes (HMAC) (see [FIPS198]), keyderivation
functions/methods (see [SP800-56A], [SP800-56B], [SP800-56C] and [SP800-
108]), and random number generators (see [SP800-90]). Approved hash functions are defined
in [FIPS180] and [FIPS202].
A hash function takes an input of arbitrary (although bounded) length and outputs a fixedlength
value. Common names for the output of a hash function include hash value, hash,
message digest, and digital fingerprint. The maximum number of input and output bits is
determined by the design of the hash function. All approved hash functions are cryptographic
hash functions. With a well-designed cryptographic hash function, it is not feasible to find a
message that will produce a given hash value (pre-image resistance), nor is it feasible to find
two messages that produce the same hash value (collision resistance).
Several hash functions are approved for Federal Government use and are defined in [FIPS180]
and [FIPS 202]. Algorithm standards need to specify either the appropriate size for the hash
function or provide the hash-function selection criteria if the algorithm can be configured to
use different hash functions.
4.2.2 Symmetric-Key Algorithms used for Encryption and Decryption
Encryption is used to provide confidentiality for data. The data to be protected is called
plaintext when in its original form. Encryption transforms the data into ciphertext. Ciphertext
can be transformed back into plaintext using decryption. The approved algorithms for
encryption/decryption are symmetric key algorithms: AES and TDEA. Each of these
algorithms operates on blocks (chunks) of data during an encryption or decryption operation.
For this reason, these algorithms are commonly called block cipher algorithms.
4.2.2.1 Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)
The AES algorithm is specified in [FIPS197]. AES encrypts and decrypts data in 128-bit
blocks, using 128-, 192- or 256-bit keys. The nomenclature for AES for the different key sizes
is AES-x, where x is the key size (e.g., AES-256).
3
Sometimes a key pair is generated by a party that is trusted by the key owner.
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4.2.2.2 Triple DEA (TDEA)
Triple DEA is defined in [SP800-67]. TDEA encrypts and decrypts data in 64-bit blocks, using
three 56-bit keys. Two variations of TDEA have been defined: two-key TDEA (2TDEA), in
which the first and third keys are identical, and three-key TDEA, in which the three keys are
all different (i.e., distinct).
The use of two-key TDEA will no longer be approved for applying cryptographic protection
(e.g., encryption) after December 31, 2015 (see [SP800-131A]); however, two-key TDEA may
continue to be used for processing already-protected information (e.g., decryption).
Federal applications shall only use three distinct keys whenever using TDEA for applying
cryptographic protection after December 31, 2015; see Table 2 in Section 5.6.1 and [SP800-
131A] for further guidance.
4.2.2.3 Modes of Operation
With a block-cipher encryption operation, the same plaintext block will always encrypt to the
same ciphertext block whenever the same key is used. If the multiple blocks in a typical
message are encrypted separately, an adversary can easily substitute individual blocks,
possibly without detection. Furthermore, certain kinds of data patterns in the plaintext, such as
repeated blocks, are apparent in the ciphertext.
Cryptographic modes of operation have been defined to alleviate this problem by combining
the basic cryptographic algorithm with variable initialization vectors and some sort of feedback
of the information derived from the cryptographic operation (see the [SP800-38] series of
publications). The NIST Recommendation for Block Cipher Modes of Operation [SP800-38A]
defines modes of operation for the encryption and decryption of data using block cipher
algorithms, such as AES and TDEA. Other modes approved for encryption are specified in
other parts of [SP800-38]; some of these modes also produce message authentication codes
(see Section 4.2.3). Guidance on the secure use of each mode is provided for each mode, in
addition to the mode specification.
Note that one of the modes included in [SP800-38A] is the Electronic Codebook (ECB) mode.
This mode is not recommended for general use, as the ciphertext leaks information about
plaintext after relatively small amounts of structured data is encrypted.
4.2.3 Message Authentication Codes (MACs)
Message Authentication Codes (MACs) can be used to provide source and integrity
authentication. A MAC is a cryptographic checksum on the data that is used in order to provide
assurance that the data has not changed and that the MAC was computed by the expected
entity. Although non-cryptographic techniques (known as error detection codes) are often used
to provide message authentication, these codes can be altered by an adversary to effect an
action to the adversary’s benefit. The use of an approved cryptographic mechanism, such as a
MAC, can alleviate this problem. In addition, the MAC can provide a recipient with assurance
that the originator (i.e., the source) of the data is a key holder (i.e., an entity authorized to have
the key). MACs are often used to authenticate the originator to the recipient when only those
two parties share the MAC key.
The computation of a MAC requires the use of (1) a secret key that is known only by the party
that generates the MAC and by the intended recipient(s) of the MAC, and (2) the data on which
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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the MAC is calculated. The result of the MAC computation is often called a MacTag when
transmitted; a MacTag is either a full-length or truncated result from the MAC computation.
Two types of algorithms for computing a MAC have been approved: MAC algorithms that are
based on block cipher algorithms, and MAC algorithms that are based on hash functions.
4.2.3.1 MACs Using Block Cipher Algorithms
[SP800-38B] defines the CMAC mode: a mode that can be used to compute a MAC using
approved block cipher algorithms, such as AES and TDEA. [SP 800-38D] defines the GMAC
mode that can be used with AES.
The key and block size used to compute a MAC based on a block cipher algorithm depends on
the algorithm used. If the same block cipher is used for both encryption and MAC computation
in two separate cryptographic operations (e.g., using an encryption mode from [SP800-38A]
and a MAC computed as specified in [SP800-38B]), then the same key shall not be used for
both the MAC and encryption operations. However, some modes of operation specified in the
[SP800-38] series provide both encryption and integrity protection using a single key.
4.2.3.2 MACs Using Hash Functions
[FIPS198] specifies the computation of a MAC using an approved hash function. A variety of
key sizes are allowed for HMAC, which is the MAC algorithm specified in [FIPS198]; the
choice of key size depends on the amount of security to be provided to the data and the hash
function used. See [SP800-107] for further discussions about HMAC, and Section 5.6 of this
Recommendation (i.e., SP 800-57, Part 1) for further discussion.
4.2.4 Digital Signature Algorithms
Digital signatures are used to provide source authentication, integrity authentication and
support for non-repudiation. Digital signatures are used in conjunction with hash functions and
are computed on data of any length (up to a limit that is determined by the hash function).
[FIPS186] specifies algorithms that are approved for the computation of digital signatures4
. It
defines the Digital Signature Algorithm (DSA) and adopts the RSA algorithm, as specified in
[ANSX9.31] and [PKCS#1] (version 1.5 and higher), and the ECDSA algorithm, as specified
in [ANSX9.62].
[FIPS186] also specifies several approved key sizes for each of these algorithms, and includes
methods for generating the algorithm's key pairs and any other parameters needed for digital
signature generation and verification. Note that older systems (legacy systems) used smaller
key sizes than those currently provided in [FIPS186]. Digital signature generation shall be
performed using keys that meet or exceed the key sizes specified in [FIPS186] and using key
pairs that are generated in accordance with [FIPS186]. Smaller key sizes shall only be used to
verify signatures that were generated using those smaller keys. See [SP800-131A].
4.2.5 Key Establishment Schemes
Automated key-establishment schemes are used to set up keys to be used between
communicating entities. Two types of automated key-establishment schemes are defined: key
4
Two general types of digital signature methods are discussed in literature: digital signatures with appendix, and
digital signatures with message recovery. [FIPS186] specifies algorithms for digital signatures with appendix, and
is the digital signature method that is discussed in this Recommendation.
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transport and key agreement. Approved key-establishment schemes are provided in [SP800-
56A] and [SP800-56B].
Key transport is the distribution of a key (and other keying material) from one entity (the
sender) to another entity (the receiver). The keying material is encrypted by the sending entity
and decrypted by one or more receiving entities.
• If a symmetric algorithm (e.g., AES) is used to transport a key, the algorithm is used to
wrap (i.e., encrypt) the keying material to be distributed; the sending and receiving
entities need to know the symmetric key-wrapping key (i.e., the key-encrypting key).
See Section 4.2.5.4 for further discussion on key encryption and key wrapping.
• If a public-key algorithm is used for key transport, one key of a key pair is used to
encrypt the key to be established, and the other key is used for decryption. In this case,
the sending entity encrypts the keying material using the receiving entity’s public key,
and the receiving entity decrypts the received keying material using the associated
private key.
Key agreement is the participation by both entities in the creation of shared keying material.
This may be accomplished using either asymmetric (public-key) or symmetric-key techniques.
• If an asymmetric algorithm is used, each entity has either a static key pair or an
ephemeral key pair or both.
• If a symmetric-key algorithm is used, each entity shares the same symmetric keywrapping
key.
4.2.5.1 Discrete-Log Key-Agreement Schemes
[SP800-56A] specifies key-establishment schemes that use discrete-logarithm-based publickey
algorithms. These schemes are specified using either finite-field math (the form of math
that most of us use) or elliptic curve math.
With the key-establishment schemes specified in [SP800-56A], a party may own and use an
ephemeral key, a static key, or both an ephemeral and a static key in a single key-agreement
transaction. The ephemeral key is used to provide a new secret for each key-establishment
transaction, while the static key (if used in a PKI with public-key certificates) provides for the
authentication of the owner.
[SP800-56A] also provides a key-confirmation method for most of its schemes to obtain
assurance that each party has agreed upon the same keying material (see Section 4.2.5.5 for a
discussion of key confirmation).
4.2.5.2 Key Establishment Using Integer-Factorization Schemes
[SP800-56B] provides key-establishment schemes that use integer-factorization-based publickey
algorithms (e.g., RSA). These schemes are provided in [SP 800-56B] for both key
agreement and key transport, and, in some cases, key confirmation can also be provided.
In these schemes, one party always owns and uses a key pair, and the other party may or may
not use a key pair, depending on the scheme. Only static keys are used in the [SP800-56B]
schemes; ephemeral keys are not used.
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4.2.5.3 Security Properties of the Key-Establishment Schemes
Cryptographic protocol designers need to understand the security properties of the schemes in
order to assure that the desired capabilities are available to the user. In general, schemes where
each party uses both an ephemeral and a static key provide more security properties than
schemes using fewer keys. However, it may not be practical for both parties to use both static
and ephemeral keys in certain applications. For example, in email applications, it is desirable
to send messages to other parties who are not on-line; in this case, the receiver cannot be
expected to provide an ephemeral key to establish the message-encrypting key during a
[SP800-56A] key-agreement scheme. For the schemes in [SP800-56B], ephemeral keys are
never used.
Both [SP80056A] and [SP800-56B] include discussions of the security properties of each of its
schemes.
4.2.5.4 Key Encryption and Key Wrapping
Key encryption provides confidentiality protection for a key by encrypting that key using a
key-encrypting key; decryption reverses the process using the same key. Key wrapping
provides both confidentiality and integrity protection for a key using a key-wrapping key to
both encrypt and integrity protect; key unwrapping decrypts the ciphertext key and verifies its
integrity. Although the key-protection services are slightly different and use different methods,
the keys are generated in the same manner. The terms are often used interchangeably, but this
Recommendation will use the terms “key wrapping” and “key unwrapping.”
Key wrapping and unwrapping use a symmetric algorithm, such as AES. Several methods for
key wrapping and unwrapping have been specified or referenced in [SP800-38F].
4.2.5.5 Key Confirmation
Key confirmation is used by two parties in a key-establishment process to provide assurance
that common keying material and/or a shared secret5
has been established. The assurance may
be provided to only one party (unilateral) or it may be provided to both parties (bilateral). The
assurance may be provided as part of the key-establishment scheme, or it may be provided by
some action that takes place outside of the scheme. For example, after a key is established, two
parties may provide assurance (i.e., a confirmation) to one another that they possess the same
key by demonstrating their ability to encrypt and decrypt data intended for each other.
[SP800-56A] provides for unilateral key confirmation for schemes where one party has a static
key-establishment key, and bilateral key confirmation for schemes where both parties have
static key-establishment keys. A total of ten key-confirmation schemes are provided, seven of
which are unilateral, and three of which are bilateral.
[SP800-56B] provides for unilateral key confirmation from the responder, in the case of a key
agreement scheme, and from the receiver, in the case of a key-transport scheme. Initiator and
bilateral key confirmation are also provided for one family of key-agreement schemes.
5
An intermediate value computed during a key-agreement scheme.
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4.2.6 Key Establishment Protocols
Key establishment protocols use key-establishment schemes in order to specify the processing
necessary to establish a key. However, key-establishment protocols also specify message flow
and format. Key-establishment protocols need to be carefully designed to not give secret
information to a potential attacker. For example, a protocol that indicates abnormal conditions,
such as an integrity error, may permit an attacker to confirm or reject an assumption regarding
secret data. Alternatively, if the time or power required to perform certain computations are
based upon the value of the secret or private key in use, then an attacker may be able to deduce
the key from observed fluctuations.
Therefore, it is best to design key-establishment protocols so that:
1. The protocols do not provide for an early exit from the protocol upon detection of a
single error,
2. The protocols trigger an alarm after a certain reasonable number of detected error
conditions, and
3. The key-dependent computations are obscured from the observer in order to prevent or
minimize the detection of key-dependent characteristics.
4.2.7 Random Bit Generation
Random bit generators (RBGs) (also called random number generators (RNGs)) are required
for the generation of keying material (e.g., keys and IVs). RBGs generate sequences of random
bits (e.g., 010011); technically, RNGs translate those bits into numbers (e.g., 010011 is
translated into the number 19). However, the use of the term “random number generator”
(RNG) is commonly used to refer to both concepts
Two classes of RBGs are defined: deterministic and non-deterministic. Deterministic Random
Bit Generators (DRBGs), sometimes called deterministic random number generators or
pseudorandom number generators, use cryptographic algorithms and the associated keying
material to generate pseudorandom bits from an initial value, called a seed, that provides
entropy (i.e., randomness) to the process. Depending on the implemented DRBG design or the
environment, additional entropy may never be introduced again, although such additional
entropy is recommended. [SP800-90A] specifies DRBG algorithms that may be used to
generate random bits for cryptographic applications (e.g., key or IV generation).
Non-deterministic Random Bit Generators (NRBGs), sometimes called true RNGs, use some
unpredictable physical source that is outside human control to introduce new entropy for every
bit output by the NRBG. The unpredictable source is commonly known as an entropy source.
[SP800-90B] provides guidance on the implementation and testing of entropy sources.
[SP800-90C] has been developed to provide guidance on the construction of DRBGs and
NRBGs from the algorithms in [SP800-90A] and entropy sources that comply with [SP800-
90B].
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5 General Key Management Guidance
This section classifies the different types of keys and other cryptographic information
according to their uses; discusses cryptoperiods and recommends appropriate cryptoperiods for
each key type; provides recommendations and requirements for other keying material;
introduces assurance of domain-parameter validity, public-key validity, and private-key
possession; discusses the implications of the compromise of keying material; and provides
guidance on the selection, implementation, and replacement of cryptographic algorithms and
key sizes according to their security strengths.
5. 1 Key Types and Other Information
There are several different types of cryptographic keys, each used for a different purpose. In
addition, there is other information that is specifically related to cryptographic algorithms and
keys.
5.1.1 Cryptographic Keys
Several different types of keys are defined. The keys are identified according to their
classification as public, private or symmetric keys, and as to their use. For public and private
key-agreement keys, their status as static or ephemeral keys is also specified. See Table 5 in
Section 6.1.1 for the required protections for each type of information.
1. Private signature key: Private signature keys are the private keys of asymmetric
(public) key pairs that are used by public-key algorithms to generate digital signatures
with possible long-term implications. When properly handled, private signature keys
can be used to provide source authentication, integrity authentication and support the
non-repudiation of messages, documents or stored data.
2. Public signature-verification key: A public signature-verification key is the public key
of an asymmetric (public) key pair that is used by a public-key algorithm to verify
digital signatures that are intended to provide source authentication, integrity
authentication and support the non-repudiation of messages, documents or stored data.
3. Symmetric authentication key: Symmetric authentication keys are used with symmetrickey
algorithms to provide source authentication and integrity authentication of
communication sessions, messages, documents or stored data. Note that for
authenticated-encryption modes of operation for a symmetric key algorithm, a single
key is used for both authentication and encryption.
4. Private authentication key: A private authentication key is the private key of an
asymmetric (public) key pair that is used with a public-key algorithm to provide
assurance of the identity of an originating entity (i.e., source authentication) when
establishing an authenticated communication session6
.
5. Public authentication key: A public authentication key is the public key of an
asymmetric (public) key pair that is used with a public-key algorithm to provide
6
While integrity protection is also provided, it is not the primary intention of this key.
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assurance of the identity of an originating entity (i.e., source authentication) when
establishing an authenticated communication session7
.
6. Symmetric data-encryption key: These keys are used with symmetric-key algorithms to
apply confidentiality protection to information (i.e., to encrypt the information). The
same key is also used to remove the confidentiality protection (i.e., to decrypt the
information). Note that for authenticated-encryption modes of operation for a
symmetric key algorithm, a single key is used for both authentication and encryption.
7. Symmetric key-wrapping key: Symmetric key-wrapping keys (sometimes called keyencrypting
keys) are used to encrypt other keys using symmetric-key algorithms. The
key-wrapping key used to encrypt a key is also used to reverse the encryption operation
(i.e., to decrypt the encrypted key). Depending on the algorithm with which the key is
used, the key may also be used to provide integrity protection.
8. Symmetric random number generation keys: These keys are used to generate random
numbers or random bits.
9. Symmetric master key: A symmetric master key is used to derive other symmetric keys
(e.g., data-encryption keys or key-wrapping keys) using symmetric cryptographic
methods. The master key is also known as a key-derivation key.
10. Private key-transport key: Private key-transport keys are the private keys of
asymmetric (public) key pairs that are used to decrypt keys that have been encrypted
with the corresponding public key using a public-key algorithm. Key-transport keys are
usually used to establish keys (e.g., key-wrapping keys, data-encryption keys or MAC
keys) and, optionally, other keying material (e.g., Initialization Vectors).
11. Public key-transport key: Public key-transport keys are the public keys of asymmetric
(public) key pairs that are used to encrypt keys using a public-key algorithm. These
keys are used to establish keys (e.g., key-wrapping keys, data-encryption keys or MAC
keys) and, optionally, other keying material (e.g., Initialization Vectors). The encrypted
form of the established key might be stored for later decryption using the private keytransport
key.
12. Symmetric key-agreement key: These symmetric keys are used to establish keys (e.g.,
key-wrapping keys, data-encryption keys, or MAC keys) and, optionally, other keying
material (e.g., Initialization Vectors) using a symmetric key-agreement algorithm.
13. Private static key-agreement key: Private static key-agreement keys are the long-term
private keys of asymmetric (public) key pairs that are used to establish keys (e.g., keywrapping
keys, data-encryption keys, or MAC keys) and, optionally, other keying
material (e.g., Initialization Vectors).
14. Public static key-agreement key: Public static key-agreement keys are the long-term
public keys of asymmetric (public) key pairs that are used to establish keys (e.g., keywrapping
keys, data-encryption keys, or MAC keys) and, optionally, other keying
material (e.g., Initialization Vectors).
7
While integrity protection is also provided, it is not the primary intention of this key.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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15. Private ephemeral key-agreement key: Private ephemeral key-agreement keys are the
short-term private keys of asymmetric (public) key pairs that are used only once8
to
establish one or more keys (e.g., key-wrapping keys, data-encryption keys, or MAC
keys) and, optionally, other keying material (e.g., Initialization Vectors).
16. Public ephemeral key-agreement key: Public ephemeral key-agreement keys are the
short-term public keys of asymmetric key pairs that are used in a single keyestablishment
transaction9
to establish one or more keys (e.g., key-wrapping keys, dataencryption
keys, or MAC keys) and, optionally, other keying material (e.g.,
Initialization Vectors).
17. Symmetric authorization key: Symmetric authorization keys are used to provide
privileges to an entity using a symmetric cryptographic method. The authorization key
is known by the entity responsible for monitoring and granting access privileges for
authorized entities and by the entity seeking access to resources.
18. Private authorization key: A private authorization key is the private key of an
asymmetric (public) key pair that is used to provide privileges to an entity.
19. Public authorization key: A public authorization key is the public key of an asymmetric
(public) key pair that is used to verify privileges for an entity that knows the associated
private authorization key.
5.1.2 Other Cryptographic or Related Information
Other information used in conjunction with cryptographic algorithms and keys also needs to be
protected. See Table 6 in Section 6.1.2 for the required protections for each type of
information.
1. Domain Parameters: Domain parameters are used in conjunction with some public-key
algorithms to generate key pairs, to create digital signatures or to establish keying material.
2. Initialization Vectors: Initialization vectors (IVs) are used by several modes of operation
for encryption and decryption (see Section 4.2.2.3) and for the computation of MACs using
block cipher algorithms (see Section 4.2.3.1)
3. Shared Secrets: Shared secrets are generated during a key-agreement process as defined in
[SP800-56A] and [SP800-56B]. Shared secrets shall be protected and handled in the same
manner as cryptographic keys. If a FIPS 140-validated cryptographic module is being used,
then the module is used to provide the protection for the shared secrets.
4. RBG seeds: RBG seeds are used in the generation of deterministic random bits (e.g., used
to generate keying material that must remain secret or private).
5. Other public information: Public information (e.g., a nonce) is often used in the keyestablishment
process.
8
In some cases ephemeral keys are used more than once, though within a single “session”. For example, when
Diffie-Hellman is used in S/MIME CMS, the sender may generate one ephemeral key pair per message, and
combine the private key separately with each recipient’s public key.
9
The public ephemeral key-agreement key of a sender may be retained by the receiver for later use in decrypting
a stored (encrypted) message for which the ephemeral key pair was generated.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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6. Other secret information: Secret information may be included in the seeding of an RBG or
in the establishment of keying material.
7. Intermediate Results: The intermediate results of cryptographic operations using secret
information must be protected. Intermediate results shall not be available for purposes
other than as intended.
8. Key-control information: Information related to the keying material (e.g., the identifier,
purpose, or a counter) must be protected to ensure that the associated keying material can
be correctly used. The key-control information is included in the metadata associated with
the key (see Section 6.2.3.1).
9. Random numbers (or bits): The random numbers created by a random bit generator should
be protected when retained. When used directly as keying material or in its generation, the
random bits shall be protected as discussed in Section 6.
10. Passwords: A password is used to acquire access to privileges and can be used as a
credential in a source-authentication mechanism. A password can also be used to derive
cryptographic keys that are used to protect and access data in storage, as specified in
[SP800-132].
11. Audit information: Audit information contains a record of key-management events.
5.2 Key Usage
In general, a single key shall be used for only one purpose (e.g., encryption, integrity
authentication, key wrapping, random bit generation, or digital signatures). There are several
reasons for this:
1. The use of the same key for two different cryptographic processes may weaken the
security provided by one or both of the processes.
2. Limiting the use of a key limits the damage that could be done if the key is
compromised.
3. Some uses of keys interfere with each other. For example, consider a key pair used for
both key transport and digital signatures. In this case, the private key is used as both a
private key-transport key to decrypt the encrypted keys and as a private signature key to
apply digital signatures. It may be necessary to retain the private key-transport key
beyond the cryptoperiod of the corresponding public key-transport key in order to
decrypt the encrypted keys needed to access encrypted data. On the other hand, the
private signature key shall be destroyed at the expiration of its cryptoperiod to prevent
its compromise (see Section 5.3.6). In this example, the longevity requirements for the
private key-transport key and the private digital-signature key contradict each other.
This principle does not preclude using a single key in cases where the same process can
provide multiple services. This is the case, for example, when a digital signature provides
integrity authentication and source authentication using a single digital signature, or when a
single symmetric key can be used to encrypt and authenticate data in a single cryptographic
operation (e.g., using an authenticated-encryption operation, as opposed to separate encryption
and authentication operations). Also, refer to Section 3.7.
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This Recommendation permits the use of a private key-transport or key-agreement key to
generate a digital signature for the following special case:
When requesting the (initial) certificate for a static key-establishment key, the
corresponding private key may be used to sign the certificate request. Also refer to Section
8.1.5.1.1.2.
5.3 Cryptoperiods
A cryptoperiod is the time span during which a specific key is authorized for use by legitimate
entities, or the keys for a given system will remain in effect. A suitably defined cryptoperiod:
1. Limits the amount of information protected by a given key that is available for
cryptanalysis,
2. Limits the amount of exposure if a single key is compromised,
3. Limits the use of a particular algorithm (e.g., to its estimated effective lifetime),
4. Limits the time available for attempts to penetrate physical, procedural, and logical
access mechanisms that protect a key from unauthorized disclosure,
5 Limits the period within which information may be compromised by inadvertent
disclosure of keying material to unauthorized entities, and
6. Limits the time available for computationally intensive cryptanalytic attacks (in
applications where long-term key protection is not required).
Sometimes cryptoperiods are defined by an arbitrary time period or maximum amount of data
protected by the key. However, trade-offs associated with the determination of cryptoperiods
involve the risk and consequences of exposure, which should be carefully considered when
selecting the cryptoperiod (see Section 5.6.4).
5.3.1 Risk Factors Affecting Cryptoperiods
Among the factors affecting the length of a cryptoperiod are:
1. The strength of the cryptographic mechanisms (e.g., the algorithm, key length, block
size, and mode of operation),
2. The embodiment of the mechanisms (e.g., a [FIPS140] Level 4 implementation or a
software implementation on a personal computer),
3. The operating environment (e.g., a secure limited-access facility, open office
environment, or publicly accessible terminal),
4. The volume of information flow or the number of transactions,
5. The security life of the data,
6. The security function (e.g., data encryption, digital signature, key derivation, or key
protection),
7. The re-keying method (e.g., keyboard entry, re-keying using a key loading device
where humans have no direct access to key information, or remote re-keying within a
PKI),
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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8. The key update or key-derivation process,
9. The number of nodes in a network that share a common key,
10. The number of copies of a key and the distribution of those copies,
11. Personnel turnover (e.g., CA system personnel),
12. The threat to the information from adversaries (e.g., whom the information is protected
from, and what are their perceived technical capabilities and financial resources to
mount an attack), and
13. The threat to the information from new and disruptive technologies (e.g., quantum
computers).
In general, short cryptoperiods enhance security. For example, some cryptographic algorithms
might be less vulnerable to cryptanalysis if the adversary has only a limited amount of
information encrypted under a single key. On the other hand, where manual key-distribution
methods are subject to human error and frailty, more frequent key changes might actually
increase the risk of key exposure. In these cases, especially when very strong cryptography is
employed, it may be more prudent to have fewer, well-controlled manual key distributions,
rather than more frequent, poorly controlled manual key distributions.
In general, where strong cryptography is employed, physical, procedural, and logical accessprotection
considerations often have more impact on cryptoperiod selection than do algorithm
and key-size factors. In the case of approved algorithms, modes of operation, and key sizes,
adversaries may be able to access keys through the penetration or subversion of a system with
less expenditure of time and resources than would be required to mount and execute a
cryptographic attack.
5.3.2 Consequence Factors Affecting Cryptoperiods
The consequences of exposure are measured by the sensitivity of the information, the criticality
of the processes protected by the cryptography, and the cost of recovery from the compromise
of the information or processes. Sensitivity refers to the lifespan of the information being
protected (e.g., 10 minutes, 10 days or 10 years) and the potential consequences of a loss of
protection for that information (e.g., the disclosure of the information to unauthorized entities).
In general, as the sensitivity of the information or the criticality of the processes protected by
cryptography increase, the length of the associated cryptoperiods should decrease in order to
limit the damage that might result from each compromise. This is subject to the caveat
regarding the security and integrity of the re-keying, key update or key-derivation process (see
Sections 8.2.3 and 8.2.4). Short cryptoperiods may be counter-productive, particularly where
denial of service is the paramount concern, and there is a significant potential for error in the
re-keying, key update or key-derivation process.
5.3.3 Other Factors Affecting Cryptoperiods
5.3.3.1 Communications versus Storage
Keys that are used for confidentiality protection of communication exchanges may often have
shorter cryptoperiods than keys used for the protection of stored data. Cryptoperiods are
generally made longer for stored data because the overhead of re-encryption associated with
changing keys may be burdensome.
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5.3.3.2 Cost of Key Revocation and Replacement
In some cases, the costs associated with changing keys are painfully high. Examples include
decryption and subsequent re-encryption of very large databases, decryption and re-encryption
of distributed databases, and revocation and replacement of a very large number of keys (e.g.,
where there are very large numbers of geographically and organizationally distributed key
holders). In such cases, the expense of the security measures necessary to support longer
cryptoperiods may be justified (e.g., costly and inconvenient physical, procedural, and logical
access security; and the use of cryptography strong enough to support longer cryptoperiods,
even where this may result in significant additional processing overhead). In other cases, the
cryptoperiod may be shorter than would otherwise be necessary; for example, keys may be
changed frequently in order to limit the period of time that the key-management system
maintains status information.
5.3.4 Asymmetric Key Usage Periods and Cryptoperiods
For key pairs, each key of the pair has its own cryptoperiod. One key of the key pair is used to
apply cryptographic protection (e.g., create a digital signature), and its cryptoperiod can be
considered as an “originator-usage period.” The other key of the key pair is used to process the
protected information (e.g., verify a digital signature); its cryptoperiod is considered to be a
“recipient-usage period.” The key pair's originator and recipient-usage periods typically begin
at the same time, but the recipient-usage period may extend beyond the originator-usage
period. For example:
• In the case of digital signature key pairs, the private signature key is used to sign data
(i.e., apply cryptographic protection), so its cryptoperiod is considered to be an
originator-usage period. The public signature-verification key is used to verify digital
signatures (i.e., process already-protected information); its cryptoperiod is considered
to be a recipient-usage period.
For a private signature key that is used to generate digital signatures as a proof-oforigin
(i.e., for source authentication), the originator-usage period (i.e., the period
during which the private key may be used to generate signatures) is often shorter than
the recipient-usage period (i.e., the period during which the signature may be verified).
In this case, the private key is intended for use for a fixed period of time, after which
time the key owner shall destroy10
the private key. The public key may be available for
a longer period of time for verifying signatures.
The cryptoperiod of a private source-authentication key that is used to sign challenge
information is basically the same as the cryptoperiod of the associated public key (i.e.,
the public source-authentication key). That is, when the private key will not be used to
sign challenges, the public key is no longer needed. In this case, the originator and
recipient-usage periods are the same.
10
A simple deletion of the keying material might not completely obliterate the information. For example, erasing
the information might require overwriting that information multiple times with other non-related information,
such as random bits, or all zero or one bits. Keys stored in memory for a long time can become “burned in”.
Splitting the key into components that are frequently updated can mitigate this problem (see [DiCrescenzo]).
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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• For key transport keys, the public key-transport key is used to apply protection (i.e.,
encrypt), so its cryptoperiod would be considered as an originator-usage period; the
private key-transport key is used to decrypt, so its cryptoperiod would be considered as
the recipient-usage period. The originator-usage period (i.e., the period during which
the public key may be used for encryption) is often shorter than the recipient-usage
period (i.e., the period during which the encrypted information may be decrypted).
• For key-agreement algorithms, the cryptoperiods of the two keys of the key pair are
usually the same.
Where public keys are distributed in public-key certificates, each certificate has a validity
period, indicated by the notBefore and notAfter dates in the certificate. Certificates may be
renewed, i.e., a new certificate containing the same public key may be issued with a new
validity period. The range of time covered by the validity periods of the original certificate and
all renewed certificates for the same public key shall not extend beyond the beginning and end
dates of the cryptoperiod for the key of the key pair used to apply protection (i.e., the key with
the originator-usage period).
See Section 5.3.6 for guidance regarding specific key types.
5.3.5 Symmetric Key Usage Periods and Cryptoperiods
For symmetric keys, a single key is used for both applying the protection (e.g., encrypting or
computing a MAC) and processing the protected information (e.g., decrypting the encrypted
information or verifying a MAC). The period of time during which cryptographic protection
may be applied to data is called the originator-usage period, and the period of time during
which the protected information is processed is called the recipient-usage period. A symmetric
key shall not be used to provide protection after the end of the originator-usage period. The
recipient-usage period may extend beyond the originator-usage period (see Figure 1). This
permits all information that has been protected by the originator to be processed by the
recipient for an extended period of time after protection has been applied. However, in many
cases, the originator and recipient-usage periods are the same. The (total) “cryptoperiod” of a
symmetric key is the period of time from the beginning of the originator-usage period to the
end of the recipient-usage period, although the originator-usage period has historically been
used as the cryptoperiod for the key.
Note that in some cases, predetermined cryptoperiods may not be adequate for the security life
of the protected data. If the required security life exceeds the cryptoperiod, then the protection
will need to be reapplied using a new key.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Figure 1: Symmetric key cryptoperiod
Examples of the use of the usage periods include:
a. When a symmetric key is used only for securing communications, the period of time
from the originator’s application of protection to the recipient’s processing may be
negligible. In this case, the key is authorized for either purpose during the entire
cryptoperiod, i.e., the originator-usage period and the recipient-usage period are the
same.
b. When a symmetric key is used to protect stored information, the originator-usage
period (when the originator applies cryptographic protection to stored information) may
end much earlier than the recipient-usage period (when the stored information is
processed). In this case, the cryptoperiod begins at the initial time authorized for the
application of protection with the key, and ends with the latest time authorized for
processing using that key. In general, the recipient-usage period for stored information
will continue beyond the originator-usage period so that the stored information may be
authenticated or decrypted at a later time.
c. When a symmetric key is used to protect stored information, the recipient-usage period
may start after the beginning of the originator-usage period as shown in Figure 1. For
example, information may be encrypted before being stored on some storage media. At
some later time, the key may be distributed in order to decrypt and recover the
information.
5.3.6 Cryptoperiod Recommendations for Specific Key Types
The key type, usage environment and data characteristics described above may affect the
cryptoperiod required for a given key. Some general cryptoperiod recommendations for
various key types are suggested below. Note that the cryptoperiods suggested are only rough
order-of-magnitude guidelines; longer or shorter cryptoperiods may be warranted, depending
on the application and environment in which the keys will be used. However, when assigning a
longer cryptoperiod than that suggested below, serious consideration should be given to the
risks associated with doing so (see Section 5.3.1). Most of the suggested cryptoperiods are on
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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the order of 1 to 2 years, based on 1) a desire for maximum operational efficiency and 2)
assumptions regarding the minimum criteria for the usage environment (see [FIPS140],
[SP800-14], and [SP800-37]). The factors described in Sections 5.3.1 through 5.3.3 should be
used to determine actual cryptoperiods for specific usage environments.
1. Private signature key:
a. Type Considerations: In general, the cryptoperiod of a private signature key may be
shorter than the cryptoperiod of the corresponding public signature-verification key.
When the corresponding public key has been certified by a CA, the cryptoperiod ends
when the notAfter date is reached on the last certificate issued for the public key11
.
b. Cryptoperiod: Given the use of approved algorithms and key sizes, and an
expectation that the security of the key-storage and use environment will increase as the
sensitivity and/or criticality of the processes for which the key provides integrity
protection increases, a maximum cryptoperiod of about one to three years is
recommended. The key shall be destroyed at the end of its cryptoperiod.
2. Public signature-verification key:
a. Type Considerations: In general, the cryptoperiod of a public signature-verification
key may be longer than the cryptoperiod of the corresponding private signature key.
The cryptoperiod is, in effect, the period during which any signature computed using
the corresponding private signature key needs to be verified. A longer cryptoperiod for
the public signature-verification key (than the private signature key) poses a relatively
minimal security concern.
b. Cryptoperiod: The cryptoperiod may be on the order of several years, though due to
the long exposure of protection mechanisms to hostile attack, the reliability of the
signature is reduced with the passage of time. That is, for any given algorithm and key
size, vulnerability to cryptanalysis is expected to increase with time. Although choosing
the strongest available algorithm and a large key size can minimize this vulnerability to
cryptanalysis, the consequences of exposure to attacks on physical, procedural, and
logical access-control mechanisms for the private key are not affected.
Some systems use a cryptographic timestamping function to place an unforgeable
timestamp on each signed message. Even though the cryptoperiod of the private
signature key has expired, the corresponding public signature-verification key may be
used to verify signatures on messages whose timestamps are within the cryptoperiod of
the private signature key. In this case, one is relying on the cryptographic timestamp
function to assure that the message was signed within the signature key's originatorusage
period.
3. Symmetric authentication key:
a. Type Considerations: The cryptoperiod of a symmetric authentication key12
depends
on the sensitivity of the type of information it protects and the protection afforded by
11
Multiple consecutive certificates may be issued for the same public key, presumably with different notBefore
and notAfter validity dates.
12
Used to enable data integrity and source authentication.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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the key. For very sensitive information, the authentication key may need to be unique to
the protected information. For less sensitive information, suitable cryptoperiods may
extend beyond a single use of the key. The originator-usage period of a symmetric
authentication key applies to the use of that key in applying the original cryptographic
protection for the information (e.g., computing the MAC); new MACs shall not be
computed on information using that key after the end of the originator-usage period.
However, the key may need to be available to verify the MAC on the protected data
beyond the originator-usage period (i.e., the recipient-usage period extends beyond the
originator-usage period). The recipient-usage period is the period during which a MAC
generated during the originator-usage period needs to be verified. Note that if a MAC
key is compromised, it may be possible for an adversary to modify the data and then
recalculate the MAC.
b. Cryptoperiod: Given the use of approved algorithms and key sizes, and an
expectation that the security of the key-storage and use environment will increase as the
sensitivity and/or criticality of the processes for which the key provides integrity
protection increases, a maximum originator-usage period of up to two years is
recommended, and a maximum recipient-usage period of three years beyond the end of
the originator-usage period is recommended.
4. Private authentication key:
a. Type Considerations: A private authentication key13
may be used multiple times. A
Certification Authority, for example, could certify the corresponding public key. In
most cases, the cryptoperiod of the private authentication key is the same as the
cryptoperiod of the corresponding public key.
b. Cryptoperiod: An appropriate cryptoperiod for a private authentication key would be
one to two years, depending on its usage environment and the sensitivity/criticality of
the authenticated information.
5. Public authentication key:
a. Type Considerations: In most cases, the cryptoperiod of a public authentication key
is the same as the cryptoperiod of the corresponding private authentication key. The
cryptoperiod is, in effect, the period during which the identity of the originator of
information protected by the corresponding private authentication key needs to be
verified, i.e., the information source needs to be authenticated14
.
b. Cryptoperiod: An appropriate cryptoperiod for the public authentication key would
be one to two years, depending on its usage environment and the sensitivity/criticality
of the authenticated information.
6. Symmetric data-encryption key:
a. Type Considerations: A symmetric data-encryption key is used to protect stored data,
messages or communications sessions. Based primarily on the consequences of
compromise, a data-encryption key that is used to encrypt large volumes of information
13
Which may be used to enable data integrity and source authentication, as well as non-repudiation.
14
While integrity protection is also provided, it is not the primary intention of this key.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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over a short period of time (e.g., for link encryption) should have a relatively short
originator-usage period. An encryption key used to encrypt less information over time
could have a longer originator-usage period. The originator-usage period of a
symmetric data-encryption key applies to the use of that key in applying the original
cryptographic protection for information (i.e., encrypting the information) (see Section
5.3.5).
During the originator-usage period, an encryption of the information may be performed
using the data-encryption key; the key shall not be used for performing an encryption
operation on information beyond this period. However, the key may need to be
available to decrypt the protected data beyond the originator-usage period (i.e., the
recipient-usage period may need to extend beyond the originator-usage period).
b. Cryptoperiod: The originator-usage period recommended for the encryption of large
volumes of information over a short period of time (e.g., for link encryption) is on the
order of a day or a week. An encryption key used to encrypt smaller volumes of
information might have an originator-usage period of up to two years. A maximum
recipient-usage period of three years beyond the end of the originator-usage period is
recommended.
In the case of symmetric data-encryption keys that are used to encrypt single messages
or single communications sessions, the lifetime of the protected data could be months
or years because the encrypted messages may be stored for later reading. Where
information is maintained in encrypted form, the symmetric data-encryption keys need
to be maintained until that information is re-encrypted under a new key or destroyed.
Note that confidence in the confidentiality of the information is reduced with the
passage of time.
7. Symmetric key-wrapping key:
a. Type Considerations: A symmetric key-wrapping key that is used to wrap (i.e.,
encrypt and integrity protect) very large numbers of keys over a short period of time
should have a relatively short originator-usage period. If a small number of keys are
wrapped, the originator-usage period of the key-wrapping key could be longer. The
originator-usage period of a symmetric key-wrapping key applies to the use of that key
in providing the key-wrapping protection for the keys; a wrapping operation shall not
be performed using a key-wrapping key whose originator-usage period has expired.
However, the key-wrapping key may need to be available to unwrap the protected keys
(i.e., decrypt and verify the integrity of the wrapped keys) beyond the originator-usage
period (i.e., the recipient-usage period may need to extend beyond the originator-usage
period); the recipient-usage period is the period of time during which keys wrapped
during the key-wrapping key's originator-usage period may need to be unwrapped.
Some symmetric key-wrapping keys are used for only a single message or
communications session. In the case of these very short-term key-wrapping keys, an
appropriate cryptoperiod (i.e., which includes both the originator and recipient-usage
periods) is a single communication session. It is assumed that the wrapped key will not
be retained in its wrapped form, so the originator-usage period and recipient-usage
period of the key-wrapping key is the same. In other cases, key-wrapping keys may be
retained so that the files or messages encrypted by the wrapped keys may be recovered
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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later on. In this case the recipient-usage period may be significantly longer than the
originator-usage period of the key-wrapping key, and cryptoperiods lasting for years
may be employed.
b. Cryptoperiod: The recommended originator-usage period for a symmetric keywrapping
key that is used to wrap very large numbers of keys over a short period of
time is on the order of a day or a week. If a relatively small number of keys are to be
wrapped under the key-wrapping key, the originator-usage period of the key-wrapping
key could be up to two years. In the case of keys used for only a single message or
communications session, the cryptoperiod would be limited to a single communication
session. Except for the latter, a maximum recipient-usage period of three years beyond
the end of the originator-usage period is recommended.
8. Symmetric RBG keys:
a. Type Considerations: Symmetric RBG keys are used in deterministic random bit
generation functions. The approved RBGs in [SP800-90] control key changes (e.g.,
during reseeding). The cryptoperiod consists of only an originator-usage period.
b. Cryptoperiod: Assuming the use of approved RBGs, the maximum cryptoperiod of
symmetric RBG keys is determined by the design of the RBG (see [SP800-90]).
9. Symmetric master key:
a. Type Considerations: A symmetric master key (also called a key-derivation key) may
be used multiple times to derive other keys using a (one-way) key-derivation function
or method (see Section 8.2.4). Therefore, the cryptoperiod consists of only an
originator-usage period for this key type. A suitable cryptoperiod depends on the nature
and use of the keys derived from the master key and on considerations provided earlier
in Section 5.3. The cryptoperiod of a key derived from a master key could be relatively
short, e.g., a single use, communication session, or transaction. Alternatively, the
master key could be used over a longer period of time to derive (or re-derive) multiple
keys for the same or different purposes. The cryptoperiod of the derived keys depends
on their use (e.g., as symmetric data-encryption or integrity authentication keys).
b. Cryptoperiod: An appropriate cryptoperiod for the symmetric master key might be
one year, depending on its usage environment and the sensitivity/criticality of the
information protected by the derived keys and the number of keys derived from the
master key.
10. Private key-transport key:
a. Type Considerations: A private key-transport key may be used multiple times to
decrypt keys. Due to the potential need to decrypt keys some time after they have been
encrypted for transport, the cryptoperiod of the private key-transport key may be longer
than the cryptoperiod of the associated public key. The cryptoperiod of the private key
is the length of time during which any keys encrypted by the corresponding public keytransport
key need to be decrypted.
b. Cryptoperiod: Given 1) the use of approved algorithms and key sizes, 2) the volume
of information that may be protected by keys encrypted under the corresponding public
key-transport key, and 3) an expectation that the security of the key-storage and use
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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environment will increase as the sensitivity and/or criticality of the processes for which
the key provides protection increases; a maximum cryptoperiod of about two years is
recommended for the private key-transport key. In certain applications (e.g., email),
where received messages are stored and decrypted at a later time, the cryptoperiod of
the private key-transport key may exceed the cryptoperiod of the public key-transport
key.
11. Public key-transport key:
a. Type Considerations: The cryptoperiod for the public key-transport key is that period
of time during which the public key may be used to actually apply the encryption
operation to the keys that will be protected. When the public key has been certified by a
CA, the cryptoperiod ends when the notAfter date is reached on the last certificate
issued for the public key.
Public key-transport keys can be publicly known. As indicated in the private keytransport
key discussion, due to the potential need to decrypt keys some time after they
have been encrypted for transport, the cryptoperiod of the public key-transport key may
be shorter than that of the corresponding private key.
b. Cryptoperiod: Based on cryptoperiod assumptions for the corresponding private
keys, a recommendation for the maximum cryptoperiod might be about one to two
years.
12. Symmetric key-agreement key:
a. Type Considerations: A symmetric key-agreement key may be used multiple times.
The cryptoperiod of these keys depends on 1) environmental security factors, 2) the
nature (e.g., types and formats) and volume of keys that are established, and 3) the
details of the key-agreement algorithms and protocols employed. Note that symmetric
key-agreement keys may be used to establish symmetric keys (e.g., symmetric data
encryption keys) or other keying material (e.g., IVs).
b. Cryptoperiod: Given an assumption that the cryptography that employs symmetric
key-agreement keys 1) employs an approved algorithm and key scheme, 2) the
cryptographic device meets [FIPS140] requirements, and 3) the risk levels are
established in conformance to [FIPS199], an appropriate cryptoperiod for the key
would be one to two years. In certain applications (e.g., email), where received
messages are stored and decrypted at a later time, the recipient-usage period of the key
may exceed the originator-usage period.
13. Private static key-agreement key:
a. Type Considerations: A private static (i.e., long-term) key-agreement key may be
used multiple times. When a CA certified the corresponding public key, the
cryptoperiod ends when the notAfter date is reached on the last certificate issued for the
public key.
As in the case of symmetric key-agreement keys, the cryptoperiod of these keys
depends on 1) environmental security factors, 2) the nature (e.g., types and formats)
and volume of keys that are established, and 3) the details of the key-agreement
algorithms and protocols employed. Note that private static key-agreement keys may be
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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used to establish symmetric keys (e.g., key-wrapping keys) or other secret keying
material.
b. Cryptoperiod: Given an assumption that the cryptography that employs private static
key-agreement keys 1) employs an approved algorithm and key scheme, 2) the
cryptographic device meets [FIPS140] requirements, and 3) the risk levels are
established in conformance to [FIPS199], an appropriate cryptoperiod for the key
would be one to two years. While the cryptoperiods of the private and public static keyagreement
keys are usually the same, in certain applications (e.g., email), where
received messages are stored and decrypted at a later time, the cryptoperiod of the
private static key-agreement key may exceed the cryptoperiod of the corresponding
public static key-agreement key.
14. Public static key-agreement key:
a. Type Considerations: The cryptoperiod for a public static (i.e., long-term) keyagreement
key is usually the same as the cryptoperiod of the corresponding private
static key-agreement key.
b. Cryptoperiod: The cryptoperiod of the public static key-agreement key may be one to
two years.
15. Private ephemeral key-agreement key:
a. Type Considerations: Private ephemeral (i.e., short-term) key-agreement keys are the
private key elements of asymmetric key pairs that are used in a single transaction to
establish one or more keys. Private ephemeral key-agreement keys may be used to
establish symmetric keys (e.g., key-wrapping keys) or other secret keying material.
b. Cryptoperiod: Private ephemeral key-agreement keys are used for a single keyagreement
transaction. However, a private ephemeral key may be used multiple times
to establish the same symmetric key with multiple parties during the same transaction
(broadcast). The cryptoperiod of a private ephemeral key-agreement key is the duration
of a single key-agreement transaction.
16. Public ephemeral key-agreement key:
a. Type Considerations: Public ephemeral (i.e., short-term) key-agreement keys are the
public key elements of asymmetric key pairs that are used only once to establish one or
more keys.
b. Cryptoperiod: Public ephemeral key-agreement keys are used for a single keyagreement
transaction. The cryptoperiod of the public ephemeral key-agreement key
ends immediately after it is used to generate the shared secret. Note that in some cases,
the cryptoperiod of the public ephemeral key-agreement key may be different for the
participants in the key-agreement transaction. For example, consider an encrypted
email application in which the email sender generates an ephemeral key-agreement key
pair, and then uses the key pair to generate an encryption key that is used to encrypt the
contents of the email. For the sender, the cryptoperiod of the public key ends when the
shared secret is generated and the encryption key is derived. However, for the
encrypted email receiver, the cryptoperiod of the ephemeral public key does not end
until the shared secret is generated and the decryption key is determined; if the email is
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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not processed immediately upon receipt (e.g., it is decrypted a week later than the email
was sent), then the cryptoperiod of the ephemeral public key does not end (from the
perspective of the receiver) until the shared secret is generated that uses that public key.
17. Symmetric authorization key:
a. Type Considerations: A symmetric authorization key may be used for an extended
period of time, depending on the resources that are protected and the role of the entity
authorized for access. For this key type, the originator-usage period and the recipientusage
period are the same. Primary considerations in establishing the cryptoperiod for
symmetric authorization keys include the robustness of the key, the adequacy of the
cryptographic method, and the adequacy of key-protection mechanisms and procedures.
b. Cryptoperiod: Given the use of approved algorithms and key sizes, and an
expectation that the security of the key-storage and use environment will increase as the
sensitivity and criticality of the authorization processes increases, it is recommended
that cryptoperiods be no more than two years.
18. Private authorization key:
a. Type Considerations: A private authorization key may be used for an extended
period of time, depending on the resources that are protected and the role of the entity
authorized for access. Primary considerations in establishing the cryptoperiod for
private authorization keys include the robustness of the key, the adequacy of the
cryptographic method, and the adequacy of key-protection mechanisms and procedures.
The cryptoperiod of the private authorization key and its corresponding public key
shall be the same.
b. Cryptoperiod: Given the use of approved algorithms and key sizes, and an
expectation that the security of the key-storage and use environment will increase as the
sensitivity and criticality of the authorization processes increases, it is recommended
that cryptoperiods for private authorization keys be no more than two years.
19. Public authorization key:
a. Type Considerations: A public authorization key is the public element of an
asymmetric key pair used to verify privileges for an entity that possesses the
corresponding private key.
b. Cryptoperiod: The cryptoperiod of the public authorization key shall be the same as
the private authorization key: no more than two years.
Table 1 below is a summary of the cryptoperiods that are suggested for each key type. Longer
or shorter cryptoperiods may be warranted, depending on the application and environment in
which the keys will be used. However, when assigning a longer cryptoperiod than that
suggested below, serious consideration should be given to the risks associated with doing so
(see Section 5.3.1).
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Table 1: Suggested cryptoperiods for key types15
Key Type
Crytoperiod
Originator-Usage
Period (OUP)
Recipient-Usage
Period
1. Private Signature Key 1 to 3 years −
2. Public Signature-Verification Key Several years (depends on key size)
3. Symmetric Authentication Key < 2 years < OUP + 3 years
4. Private Authentication Key 1 to 2 years
5. Public Authentication Key 1 to 2 years
6. Symmetric Data Encryption Keys < 2 years < OUP + 3 years
7. Symmetric Key Wrapping Key < 2 years < OUP + 3 years
8. Symmetric RBG Keys See [SP800-90] −
9. Symmetric Master Key About 1 year −
10. Private Key Transport Key < 2 years16
11. Public Key Transport Key 1 to 2 years
12. Symmetric Key Agreement Key 1 to 2 years17
13. Private Static Key Agreement Key 1 to 2 years18
14. Public Static Key Agreement Key 1 to 2 years
15. Private Ephemeral Key Agreement
Key
One key-agreement transaction
16. Public Ephemeral Key Agreement
Key
One key-agreement transaction
15
In some cases, risk factors affect the cryptoperiod selection (see Section 5.3.1).
16
In certain email applications where received messages are stored and decrypted at a later time, the cryptoperiod
of the private key-transport key may exceed the cryptoperiod of the public key-transport key.
17
In certain email applications where received messages are stored and decrypted at a later time, the key's
recipient-usage period key may exceed the originator-usage period.
18
In certain email applications whereby received messages are stored and decrypted at a later time, the
cryptoperiod of the private static key-agreement key may exceed the cryptoperiod of the public static keyagreement
key.
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Key Type
Crytoperiod
Originator-Usage
Period (OUP)
Recipient-Usage
Period
17. Symmetric Authorization Key < 2 years
18. Private Authorization Key < 2 years
19. Public Authorization Key < 2 years
5.3.7 Recommendations for Other Cryptographic or Related Information
Information other than keys does not have well-established cryptoperiods, per se. The
following recommendations are offered regarding the disposition of this other keying material:
1. Domain parameters remain in effect until changed.
2. An IV is associated with the information that it helps to protect, and is needed until the
information in its cryptographically protected form is no longer needed.
3. Shared secrets generated during the execution of key-agreement schemes shall be
destroyed as soon as they are no longer needed to derive keying material.
4. RBG seeds shall be destroyed immediately after use.
5. Other public information should not be retained longer than needed for cryptographic
processing.
6. Other secret information shall not be retained longer than necessary.
7. Intermediate results shall be destroyed immediately after use.
5.4 Assurances
When cryptographic keys and domain parameters are stored or distributed, they may pass
through unprotected environments. In this case, specific assurances are required before the key
or domain parameters may be used to perform normal cryptographic operations.
5.4.1 Assurance of Integrity (Integrity Protection)
Assurance of integrity shall be obtained prior to using all keying material.
At a minimum, assurance of integrity shall be obtained by verifying that the keying material
has the appropriate format and came from an authorized source. Additional assurance of
integrity may be obtained by the proper use of error detection codes, message authentication
codes, and digital signatures.
5.4.2 Assurance of Domain Parameter Validity
Domain parameters are used by discrete log public-key algorithms during the generation of key
pairs and digital signatures, and during the generation of shared secrets (during the execution
of a key-agreement scheme) that are subsequently used to derive keying material. Assurance of
the validity of the domain parameters is important to applications of public-key cryptography
and shall be obtained prior to using them.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Invalid domain parameters could void all intended security for all entities using the domain
parameters. Methods for obtaining assurance of domain-parameter validity for the DSA and
ECDSA digital signature algorithms are provided in [SP800-89]. Methods for obtaining
assurance of domain-parameter validity for finite-field and elliptic-curve discrete-log keyagreement
algorithms are provided in [SP800-56A].
Note that if a public key is certified by a CA for these algorithms, the CA could obtain this
assurance during the certification process. Otherwise, the key-pair owner and any relying
parties are responsible for obtaining the assurance.
5.4.3 Assurance of Public-Key Validity
Assurance of public-key validity shall be obtained on all public keys before using them.
Assurance of public-key validity gives the user confidence that the public key is arithmetically
correct. This reduces the probability of using weak or corrupted keys. Invalid public keys could
result in voiding the intended security, including the security of the operation (i.e., digital
signature, key establishment, or encryption), leaking some or all information from the owner's
private key, and leaking some or all information about a private key that is combined with an
invalid public key (as may be done when key agreement or public-key encryption is
performed). One of several ways to obtain assurance of validity is for an entity to verify certain
mathematical properties that the public key should have. Another way is to obtain the
assurance from a trusted third party (e.g., a CA) that the trusted party validated the properties.
Methods of obtaining assurance of public-key validity for the DSA, ECDSA and RSA digital
signature algorithms are provided in [SP800-89]. Methods for obtaining this assurance for the
finite-field and elliptic-curve discrete-log key-establishment schemes are provided in [SP800-
56A]. Methods for obtaining assurance of (partial) public-key validity for the RSA keyestablishment
schemes are provided in [SP800-56B].
5.4.4 Assurance of Private-Key Possession
Assurance of static (i.e., long-term) private-key possession shall be obtained before the use of
the corresponding static public key. Assurance of validity shall always be obtained prior to, or
concurrently with, assurance of possession. Assurance of private-key possession shall be
obtained by both the owner of the key pair and by other entities that receive the public key of
that key pair and use it to interact with the owner.
For specific details regarding assurance of the possession of private key-establishment keys,
see [SP800-56A] and [SP800-56B]; for specific details regarding assurance of the possession
of private digital-signature keys, see [SP800-89]. Note that for public keys that are certified by
a CA, the CA could obtain this assurance during the certification process. Otherwise, the
owner and relying parties are responsible for obtaining the assurance.
5.5 Compromise of Keys and other Keying Material
Information protected by cryptographic mechanisms is secure only if the algorithms remain
strong, and the keys have not been compromised. Key compromise occurs when the protective
mechanisms for the key fail (e.g., the confidentiality, integrity or association of the key to its
owner fail—see Section 6), and the key can no longer be trusted to provide the required
security. When a key is compromised, all use of the key to apply cryptographic protection to
information (e.g., compute a digital signature or encrypt information) shall cease, and the
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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compromised key shall be revoked (see Section 8.3.5). However, the continued use of the key
under controlled circumstances to remove or verify the protections (e.g., decrypt or verify a
digital signature) may be warranted, depending on the risks of continued use and an
organization's Key Management Policy (see [SP800-57, Part 2]). The continued use of a
compromised key shall be limited to processing already-protected information. In this case, the
entity that uses the information shall be made fully aware of the dangers involved. Limiting the
cryptoperiod of the key limits the amount of material that would be compromised (exposed) if
the key were compromised. Using different keys for different purposes (e.g., different
applications, as well as different cryptographic mechanisms), as well as limiting the amount of
information protected by a single key, also achieves this purpose.
The compromise of a key has the following implications:
1. The unauthorized disclosure of a key means that another entity (an unauthorized entity)
may know the key and be able to use that key to perform computations requiring the
use of the key.
In general, the unauthorized disclosure of a key used to provide confidentiality
protection19
(i.e., via encryption) means that all information encrypted by that key
could be determined by unauthorized entities. For example, if a symmetric dataencryption
key is compromised, the unauthorized entity might use the key to decrypt
past or future encrypted information, i.e., the information is no longer confidential
between the authorized entities. In addition, a compromised key could be used by an
adversary to encrypt information of the adversary's choosing, thus providing false
information.
The unauthorized disclosure of a private signature key means that the integrity and nonrepudiation
qualities of all data signed by that key are suspect. An unauthorized party in
possession of the private key could sign false information and make it appear to be
valid. In cases where it can be shown that the signed data was protected by other
mechanisms (e.g., physical security) from a time before the compromise, the signature
may still have some value. For example, if a signed message was received on day 1,
and it was later determined that the private signing key was compromised on day 15,
the receiver may still have confidence that the message is valid because it was
maintained in the receiver’s possession before day 15. Note that cryptographic
timestamping may also provide protection for messages signed before the private
signature key was compromised. However, the security provided by these other
mechanisms is now critical to the security of the signature. In addition, the nonrepudiation
of the signed message may be questioned, since the private signature key
may have been disclosed to the message receiver, who then altered the message in
some way.
The disclosure of a CA’s private signature key means that an adversary can create
fraudulent certificates and Certificate Revocation Lists (CRLs).
2. A compromise of the integrity of a key means that the key is incorrect − either that the
key has been modified (either deliberately or accidentally), or that another key has been
19
As opposed to the confidentiality of a key that could, for example, be used as a signing private key.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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substituted; this includes a deletion (non-availability) of the key. The substitution or
modification of a key used to provide integrity20
calls into question the integrity of all
information protected by the key.
3. A compromise of a key’s usage or application association means that the key could be
used for the wrong purpose (e.g., for key establishment instead of digital signatures) or
for the wrong application, and could result in the compromise of information protected
by the key.
4. A compromise of a key’s association with the owner or other entity means that the
identity of the other entity cannot be assured (i.e., one does not know who the other
entity really is).
5. A compromise of a key’s association with other information means that there is no
association at all, or the association is with the wrong “information”. This could cause
the cryptographic services to fail, information to be lost, or the security of the
information to be compromised.
Certain protective measures may be taken in order to minimize the likelihood or consequences
of a key compromise. The following procedures are usually involved:
a. Limiting the amount of time a symmetric or private key is in plaintext form.
b. Preventing humans from viewing plaintext symmetric and private keys.
c. Restricting plaintext symmetric and private keys to physically protected containers.
This includes key generators, key-transport devices, key loaders, cryptographic
modules, and key-storage devices.
d. Using integrity checks to ensure that the integrity of a key or its association with other
data has not been compromised. For example, keys may be wrapped (i.e., encrypted) in
such a manner that unauthorized modifications to the wrapped key or to the key's
metadata will be detected.
e. Employing key confirmation (see Section 4.2.5.5) to help ensure that the proper key
was, in fact, established.
f. Establishing an accountability system that keeps track of each access to symmetric and
private keys in plaintext form.
g. Providing a cryptographic integrity check on the key (e.g., using a MAC or a digital
signature).
h. The use of trusted timestamps for signed data.
i. Destroying keys as soon as they are no longer needed.
j. Creating a compromise-recovery plan, especially in the case of the compromise of a CA
key.
The worst form of key compromise is one that is not detected. Nevertheless, even in this case,
certain protective measures can be taken. Cryptographic Key Management Systems (CKMSs)
should be designed to mitigate the negative effects of a key compromise. A CKMS should be
20
As opposed to the integrity of a key that could, for example, be used for encryption.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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designed so that the compromise of a single key compromises as little data as possible. For
example, a single cryptographic key could be used to protect the data of only a single user or a
limited number of users, rather than a large number of users. Often, systems have alternative
methods to authenticate communicating entities that do not rely solely on the possession of
keys. The object is to avoid building a system with catastrophic weaknesses.
A compromise-recovery plan is essential for restoring cryptographic security services in the
event of a key compromise. A compromise-recovery plan shall be documented and easily
accessible. The plan may be included in the Key Management Practices Statement (see
[SP800-57, Part 2]). If not, the Key Management Practices Statement should reference the
compromise-recovery plan.
Although compromise recovery is primarily a local action, the entire community that uses the
system or equipment shares the repercussions. Therefore, compromise-recovery procedures
should include the community at large. For example, recovery from the compromise of a root
CA’s private signature key requires that all users of the infrastructure obtain and install a new
trust anchor certificate. Typically, this involves physical procedures that are expensive to
implement. To avoid these expensive procedures, elaborate precautions to avoid compromise
may be justified.
The compromise-recovery plan should contain:
1. The identification of the personnel to notify,
2. The identification of the personnel to perform the recovery actions,
3. The method for obtaining a new key (i.e., re-keying),
4. An inventory of all cryptographic keys (e.g., the location of all certificates in a system),
5. The education of all appropriate personnel on the recovery procedures,
6. An identification of all personnel needed to support the recovery procedures,
7. Policies that key-revocation checking be enforced (to minimize the effect of a
compromise),
8. The monitoring of the re-keying operations (to ensure that all required operations are
performed for all affected keys), and
9. Any other recovery procedures.
Other compromise-recovery procedures may include:
a. A physical inspection of the equipment,
b. An identification of all information that may be compromised as a result of the
incident,
c. An identification of all signatures that may be invalid, due to the compromise of a
signing key, and
d. The distribution of new keying material, if required.
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5.6 Guidance for Cryptographic Algorithm and Key-Size Selection
Cryptographic algorithms that provide the security services identified in Section 3 are specified
in Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) and NIST Recommendations. Several of
these algorithms are defined for several of key sizes. This section provides guidance for the
selection of appropriate algorithms and key sizes.
This section emphasizes the importance of acquiring cryptographic systems with appropriate
algorithm and key sizes to provide adequate protection for 1) the expected lifetime of the
system and 2) any data protected by that system during the expected lifetime of the data.
5.6.1 Comparable Algorithm Strengths
Cryptographic algorithms can provide different “strengths” of security, depending on the
algorithm and the key size used (when a key is employed). Table 2 gives the current estimates
for the maximum security strengths that the approved symmetric and asymmetric
cryptographic algorithms can provide, given keys of a specified length. These estimates were
made under the assumption that the keys used with those algorithms are generated and handled
in accordance with specific rules (e.g., the keys are generated using RBGs that were seeded
with sufficient entropy). However, these rules are often not followed, and the security provided
to the data protected by those keys may be somewhat less than the security strength estimates
provided.
Two algorithms are considered to be of comparable strength for the given key sizes (X and Y)
if the amount of work needed to “break the algorithms” or determine the keys (with the given
key sizes and sufficient entropy) is approximately the same using a given resource. The
security strength of an algorithm for a given key size is traditionally described in terms of the
amount of work it takes to try all keys for a symmetric algorithm with a key size of “X” that
has no short-cut attacks (i.e., the most efficient attack is to try all possible keys). In this case,
the best attack is said to be the exhaustion attack. An algorithm that has a Y-bit key, but whose
estimated maximum security strength is comparable to a symmetric algorithm with an X-bit
key is said have an “estimated maximum security strength of X bits” or to be able to provide “X
bits of security”. Given a few plaintext blocks and corresponding ciphertext, an algorithm that
can provide X bits of security would, on average, take 2X-1
T units of time to attack, where T is
the amount of time that is required to perform one encryption of a plaintext value and compare
the result against the corresponding ciphertext value.
Determining the security strength of an algorithm can be nontrivial. For example, consider
TDEA, which uses three 56-bit keys (K1, K2 and K3). If each of these keys is independently
generated, then this is called three-key TDEA (3TDEA). However, if K1 and K2 are
independently generated, and K3 is set equal to K1, then this is called two-key TDEA
(2TDEA). One might expect that 3TDEA would provide 56 × 3 = 168 bits of strength.
However, there is an attack on 3TDEA that reduces the strength to the work that would be
involved in exhausting a 112-bit key. For 2TDEA, if exhaustion were the best attack, then the
strength of 2TDEA would be 56 × 2 = 112 bits. This appears to be the case if the attacker has
only a few matched plain and cipher pairs. However, the security strength of 2TDEA decreases
as the number of matched plaintext/ciphertext pairs increases. If the attacker can obtain
approximately 240
such pairs and has sufficient memory and computational power, then
2TDEA can provide an estimated maximum security strength of about 80 bits; if the attacker
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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has 256
plaintext/ciphertext pairs, with significantly more memory and computational power,
then the estimated maximum security strength would be about 56 bits.
The comparable key-size classes discussed in this section are based on estimates made as of
the publication of this Recommendation using currently known methods. Advances in
factoring algorithms, advances in general discrete-logarithm attacks, elliptic-curve discretelogarithm
attacks and quantum computing may affect these equivalencies in the future. New or
improved attacks or technologies may be developed that leave some of the current algorithms
completely insecure. If quantum attacks become practical, the asymmetric techniques may no
longer be secure. Periodic reviews will be performed to determine whether the stated
equivalencies need to be revised (e.g., the key sizes need to be increased) or the algorithms are
no longer secure.
The use of strong cryptographic algorithms may mitigate security issues other than just bruteforce
cryptographic attacks. The algorithms may unintentionally be implemented in a manner
that leaks small amounts of information about the key. In this case, the larger key may reduce
the likelihood that this leaked information will eventually compromise the key.
When selecting a block-cipher cryptographic algorithm (e.g., AES or TDEA), the block size
may also be a factor that should be considered, since the amount of security provided by
several of the modes defined in [SP800-38] is dependent on the block size. More information
on this issue is provided in [SP800-38].
Table 2 provides estimated, comparable maximum security strengths for the approved
algorithms and key lengths.
1. Column 1 indicates the estimated maximum security strength (in bits) provided by the
algorithms and key sizes in a particular row. Note that the security strength is not
necessarily the same as the length of the key for the algorithms in the other columns,
due to attacks on those algorithms that provide computational advantages.
2. Column 2 identifies the symmetric-key algorithms that can provide the security
strength indicated in column 1, where 2TDEA and 3TDEA are specified in [SP800-67],
and AES is specified in [FIPS197]. 2TDEA is TDEA with two different keys; 3TDEA
is TDEA with three different keys.
3. Column 3 indicates the minimum size of the parameters associated with the standards
that use finite-field cryptography (FFC). Examples of such algorithms include DSA, as
defined in [FIPS186] for digital signatures, and Diffie-Hellman (DH) and MQV key
agreement, as defined in [SP800-56A], where L is the size of the public key, and N is
the size of the private key.
4. Column 4 indicates the value for k (the size of the modulus n) for algorithms based on
integer-factorization cryptography (IFC). The predominant algorithm of this type is the
RSA algorithm. RSA is approved in [FIPS186] for digital signatures, and in [SP800-
56B] for key establishment. The value of k is commonly considered to be the key size.
5. Column 5 indicates the range of f (the size of n, where n is the order of the base point
G) for algorithms based on elliptic-curve cryptography (ECC) that are specified for
digital signatures in [ANSX9.62] and adopted in [FIPS186], and for key establishment
as specified in [SP800-56A]. The value of f is commonly considered to be the key size.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Table 2: Comparable strengths
Security
Strength
Symmetric
key
algorithms
FFC
(e.g., DSA, D-H)
IFC
(e.g., RSA)
ECC
(e.g., ECDSA)
≤ 80 2TDEA21
L = 1024
N = 160
k = 1024 f = 160-223
112 3TDEA
L = 2048
N = 224
k = 2048 f = 224-255
128 AES-128
L = 3072
N = 256
k = 3072 f = 256-383
192 AES-192
L = 7680
N = 384
k = 7680 f = 384-511
256 AES-256
L = 15360
N = 512
k = 15360 f = 512+
Note that the 192-bit and 256-bit key strengths identified for the FFC and IFC algorithms
(shaded in yellow) are not currently included in the NIST standards for interoperability and
efficiency reasons.
Also, note that algorithm/key-size combinations that have been estimated at a maximum
security strength of less than 112 bits (shaded in orange above) are no longer approved for
applying cryptographic protection on Federal government information (e.g., encrypting data or
generating a digital signature). However, some flexibility is allowed for processing alreadyprotected
information at those security strengths (e.g., decrypting encrypted data or verifying
digital signatures) if the receiving entity accepts the risks associated with doing so. See
[SP800131A] for more detailed information.
Appropriate hash functions that may be employed will be determined by the algorithm, scheme
or application in which the hash function is used and by the minimum security-strength to be
provided. Table 3 lists the approved hash functions specified in [FIPS186] and [FIPS202] that
can be used to provide each identified security strength for various hash-function applications:
digital signatures, HMAC, key derivation and random bit generation.
21
See the example in the third paragraph of Section 5.6.1.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Table 3: Hash functions that can be used to provide the targeted security strengths
Note that some security strengths in the table do not indicate a hash function for the
application; it is always acceptable to use a hash function with a higher estimated maximum
security strength than that required for the application.
Note that in the case of HMAC, which requires a key, the estimate assumes that a key whose
length and entropy are at least equal to the security strength is used.
For some applications, a cryptographic key is associated with the application and needs to be
considered when determining the security strength actually afforded by the application. For
example, for the generation of digital signatures, the minimum key length for the keys for a
given security strength is provided in the FFC, IFC and ECC columns of Table 2; while for
HMAC, the key lengths are discussed in [SP800-107].
Note that hash functions and applications providing less than 112 bits of security strength
(shaded in orange) are no longer approved for applying cryptographic protection on Federal
government information (e.g., generating a digital signature). However, some flexibility is
allowed for processing already-protected information at those security strengths (e.g., verifying
digital signatures), if the receiving entity accepts the risks associated with doing so. See
[SP800131A] for more detailed information.
22
Assumes that pre-image resistance is required, rather than collision resistance.
23
The security strength for key-derivation assumes that the shared secret contains sufficient entropy to support the
desired security strength.
24
The security strength assumes that the random number generator has been provided with adequate entropy to
support the desired security strength.
25
SHA-1 has been demonstrated to provide less than 80 bits of security for digital signatures, which require
collision resistance; at the publication of this Recommendation, the security strength against digital signature
collisions remains the subject of speculation.
Security
Strength
Digital Signatures and hash-only
applications
HMAC22
,
Key Derivation Functions23
,
Random Number Generation24
≤ 80 SHA-125
112 SHA-224, SHA-512/224, SHA3-224
128 SHA-256, SHA-512/256, SHA3-256 SHA-1
192 SHA-384, SHA3-384 SHA-224, SHA-512/224
≥ 256 SHA-512, SHA3-512 SHA-256, SHA-512/256, SHA-384,
SHA-512, SHA3-512
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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5.6.2 Defining Appropriate Algorithm Suites
Many applications require the use of several different cryptographic algorithms. When several
algorithms can be used to perform the same service, some algorithms are inherently more
efficient because of their design (e.g., AES has been designed to be more efficient than
TDEA).
In many cases, a variety of key sizes may be available for an algorithm. For some of the
algorithms (e.g., public-key algorithms, such as RSA), the use of larger key sizes than are
required may impact operations, e.g., larger keys may take longer to generate or longer to
process the data. However, the use of key sizes that are too small may not provide adequate
security.
Table 4 provides general recommendations that may be used to select an appropriate suite of
algorithms and key sizes for Federal Government unclassified applications to protect sensitive
data. A schedule for increasing the security strengths for applying cryptographic protection to
data (e.g., encrypting or digitally signing) is specified in the table. Transition details for
algorithms, key sizes and applications are provided in [SP800-131A]. The table is organized as
follows:
1. Column 1 is divided into two sub-columns. The first sub-column indicates the security
strength to be provided; the second sub-column indicates whether cryptographic
protection is being applied to data (e.g., encrypted), or whether cryptographically
protected data is being processed (e.g., decrypted).
2. Columns 2 and 3 indicate the time frames during which the security strength is either
acceptable, OK for legacy use or disallowed26
.
• “Acceptable” indicates that the algorithm or key length is not known to be insecure.
• “Legacy-use” means that an algorithm or key length may be used because of its use
in legacy applications (i.e., the algorithm or key length can be used to process
cryptographically protected data).
• “Disallowed” means that an algorithm or key length shall not be used for applying
cryptographic protection.
Table 4: Security-strength time frames
Security Strength
Through
2030
2031 and
Beyond
< 112
Applying Disallowed
Processing Legacy-use
112
Applying
Acceptable
Disallowed
Processing Legacy use
26
A fourth category − deprecated − was used in the previous version of this Recommendation, but is not currently
being used.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Security Strength
Through
2030
2031 and
Beyond
128
Applying/Processing
Acceptable Acceptable
192 Acceptable Acceptable
256 Acceptable Acceptable
See [SP800-131A] for specific details and for any exceptions to the general guidance provided
in Table 4.
If the security life of information extends beyond one time period specified in the table into the
next time period (the later time period), the algorithms and key sizes specified for the later time
period shall be used for applying cryptographic protection (e.g., encryption). The following
examples are provided to clarify the use of the table:
1. If information is cryptographically protected (e.g., digitally signed) in 2015, and the
maximum-expected security life of that data is only one year, any of the approved
digital-signature algorithms or key sizes that provide at least 112 bits of security
strength may be used.
2. If the information is to be digitally signed in 2025, and the expected security life of the
data is six years, then an algorithm or key size that provides at least 128 bits of security
strength is required.
5.6.3 Using Algorithm Suites
Algorithm suites that combine algorithms with a mixture of estimated maximum security
strengths is generally discouraged. However, algorithms of different strengths and key sizes
may be used together for performance, availability or interoperability reasons, provided that
sufficient protection is provided to the data to be protected. In general, the weakest algorithm
and key size used to provide cryptographic protection determines the strength of the protection.
A determination of the actual strength of the protection provided for information includes an
analysis not only of the algorithm(s) and key size(s) used to apply the cryptographic
protection(s) to the information, but also the details of how the key was generated (e.g., the
security strength supported by the RBG used during the generation of the key) and how the key
was handled subsequent to generation (e.g., was the key wrapped by an algorithm with a
security strength less than the security strength intended for the key's use.
The following is a list of several algorithm combinations and discussions on the security
implications of the algorithm/key-size combination:
1. When a key-establishment scheme is used to establish keying material for use with one
or more algorithms (e.g., TDEA, AES, or HMAC), the security strength that can be
supported by the keying material is determined by the weakest algorithm and key size
used. For example, if a 224-bit ECC key is used as specified in [SP80056A] to establish
a 128-bit AES key, no more than 112 bits of security can be provided for any
information protected by that AES key, since the 224-bit ECC can only provide a
maximum of 112 bits of security.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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2. When a hash function and digital signature algorithm are used in combination to
compute a digital signature, the security strength of the signature is determined by the
weaker of the two processes. For example, if SHA-256 is used with RSA and a 2048bit
key, the combination can provide no more than 112 bits of security, because a 2048bit
RSA key cannot provide more than 112 bits of security strength.
3. When a random bit generator is used to generate a key for a cryptographic algorithm
that is intended to provide X bits of security, an approved random bit generator shall
be used that provides at least X bits of security.
If it is determined that a specific level of security is required for the protection of data, then an
algorithm and key size suite needs to be selected that could provide that level of security (as a
minimum). For example, if 128 bits of security are required for data that is to be communicated
and provided with confidentiality protection, and integrity and source authentication, the
following selection of algorithms and key sizes may be appropriate:
a. Confidentiality: Encrypt the information using AES-128. Other AES key sizes would
also be appropriate, but performance may be a little slower.
b. Integrity authentication and source authentication: If only one cryptographic operation
is preferred, use digital signatures. SHA-256 or a larger hash function could be used.
Select an algorithm for digital signatures from what is available to an application (e.g.,
ECDSA with at least a 256-bit key). If more than one algorithm and key size is
available, the selection may be based on algorithm performance, memory requirements,
etc., as long as the minimum requirements are met.
c. Key establishment: Select a key-establishment scheme that is based on the application
and environment (see [SP80056A] or [SP800-56B]), the availability of an algorithm in
an implementation, and its performance. Select a key size from Table 2 for an
algorithm and key size that can provide at least 128 bits of security. For example, if an
ECC key-agreement scheme is available, use an ECC scheme with at least a 256-bit
key (the value of f in Table 2). However, the key used for key agreement shall be
different from the ECDSA key used for digital signatures.
Agencies that procure systems should consider the potential operational lifetime of the system.
The agencies shall either select algorithms that are expected to be secure during the entire
system lifetime, or should ensure that the algorithms and key sizes can be readily updated.
5.6.4 Transitioning to New Algorithms and Key Sizes
The estimated time period during which data protected by a specific cryptographic algorithm
(and key size) remains secure is called the algorithm security lifetime. During this time, the
algorithm may be used to both apply cryptographic protection (e.g., encrypt data) and to
process the protected information (e.g., decrypt data); the algorithm is expected to provide
adequate protection for the protected data during this period.
Typically, an organization selects the cryptographic services that are needed for a particular
application. Then, based on the algorithm security lifetime and the security life of the data to
be protected, an algorithm and key-size suite is selected that is sufficient to meet the
requirements. The organization then establishes a key-management system, including validated
cryptographic products that provide the services required by the application. As an algorithm
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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and/or key-size suite nears the end of its security lifetime, transitioning to a new algorithm and
key-size suite should be planned.
When the algorithm or key size is determined to no longer provide the desired protection for
information (e.g., the algorithm may have been "broken"), any information protected by the
algorithm or key size is considered to be suspect (e.g., the data may no longer be confidential,
or the integrity cannot be assured). If the protected data is retained, it should be re-protected
using an approved algorithm and key size that will protect the information for the remainder
of its security life. However, it should be assumed that encrypted information could have been
collected and retained by unauthorized entities (adversaries) for decryption at some later time.
In addition, the recovered plaintext could be used to attempt a matched plaintext-ciphertext
attack on the new algorithm.
When using Tables 2, 3 and 4 to select the appropriate algorithm and key size, it is very
important to take the expected security life of the data into consideration. As stated earlier, an
algorithm (and key size) may be used both to apply cryptographic protection to data and
process the protected data. When the security life of the data is taken into account,
cryptographic protection should not be applied to data using a given algorithm (and key size)
if the security life of the data extends beyond the end of the algorithm security lifetime (i.e.,
into the timeframe when the algorithm or key size is disallowed; see Table 4). The period of
time that an algorithm (and key size) may be used to apply cryptographic protection is called
the algorithm originator-usage period. The algorithm security life = (the algorithm originatorusage
period) + (the security life of the data beyond the algorithm originator-usage period) (see
Figure 2).
For example, suppose that 3TDEA is to be used to provide confidentiality protection for data
with a security life of four years. Table 2 indicates that 3TDEA has a maximum security
strength of 112 bits. Table 4 indicates that an algorithm with a security strength of 112 bits has
an algorithm security lifetime that extends through 2030 for applying cryptographic protection
(i.e., encryption, in this case), but not beyond. Since the data has a four-year security life, the
algorithm originator-usage period must end by December 31, 2026 (rather than 2030) in order
to ensure that all data protected by 3TDEA is secure during its entire security life (i.e., the
algorithm could not be used to encrypt data beyond 2026). See Figure 2. After 2026, the
algorithm could be used to decrypt data for another four years, with the expectation that the
confidentiality of the data continues to be protected at a security strength of 112 bits. If the
security life of the data was estimated correctly, the data would no longer need this
confidentiality protection after 2030. However, if the security life of the data is longer than
originally expected, then the protection provided after 2030 may be less than required, and
there is some risk that the confidentiality of the data may be compromised (after 2030);
accepting the risk associated with the possible compromise is indicated by the “legacy use”
indication in Table 4.
When initiating cryptographic protections for information, the strongest algorithm and key size
that is appropriate for providing the protection should be used in order to minimize costly
transitions. However, it should be noted that selecting some algorithms or key sizes that are
unnecessarily large might have adverse performance effects (e.g., the algorithm may be
unacceptably slow).
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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The process of transitioning to a new algorithm or a new key size may be as simple as selecting
a more secure option in the security suites offered by the current system, or it can be as
complex as building a whole new system. However, given that it is necessary to develop a new
algorithm suite for a system, the following issues should be considered.
1. The sensitivity of information and the system lifetime: The sensitivity of the
information that will need to be protected by the system for the lifetime of the new
algorithm(s) should be evaluated in order to determine the minimum securityrequirement
for the system. Care should be taken not to underestimate the required
lifetime of the system or the sensitivity of information that it may need to protect.
Many decisions that were initially considered as temporary or interim decisions
about data sensitivity have since been proven to be inadequate (e.g., the sensitivity
of the information lasted well beyond its initially expected lifetime).
2. Algorithm selection: New algorithms should be carefully selected to ensure that
they meet or exceed the minimum security requirement of the system. In general, it
is relatively easy to select cryptographic algorithms and key sizes that offer high
security. However, it is wise for the amateur to consult a cryptographic expert when
making such decisions. Systems should offer algorithm-suite options that provide
for future growth.
3. System design: A new system should be designed to meet the minimum
performance and security requirements. This is often a difficult task, since
Figure 2: Algorithm Originator-Usage Period Example
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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performance and security goals may conflict. All aspects of security (e.g., physical
security, computer security, operational security, and personnel security) are
involved. If a current system is to be modified to incorporate new algorithms, the
consequences need to be analyzed. For example, the existing system may require
significant modifications to accommodate the footprints (e.g., key sizes, block
sizes, etc.) of the new algorithms. In addition, the security measures (other than the
cryptographic algorithms) retained from the current system should be reviewed to
assure that they will continue to be effective in the new system.
4. Pre-implementation evaluation: Strong cryptography may be poorly
implemented. Therefore, a changeover to new cryptographic techniques should not
be made without an evaluation as to how effective and secure they are in the
system.
5. Testing: Any system should be tested before it is employed.
6. Training: If the new system requires that new or different tasks (e.g., key
management procedures) be performed, then the individuals who will perform those
tasks should be properly trained. Features that are thought to be improvements may
be viewed as annoyances by an untrained user.
7. System implementation and transition: Care should be taken to implement the
system as closely as possible to the design. Exceptions should be noted.
8. Transition: A transition plan should be developed and followed so that the
changeover from the old to the new system runs as smoothly as possible.
9. Post-implementation evaluation: The system should be evaluated to verify that
the implemented system meets the minimum security requirements.
5.6.5 Security Strength Reduction
At some time, the security strength provided by an algorithm or key may be reduced or lost
completely. For example, the algorithm or key length used may no longer offer adequate
security because of improvements in computational capability or cryptanalysis. In this case,
applying protection to “new” information can be performed using stronger algorithms or keys.
However, information that was previously protected using these now-inadequate algorithms
and keys may no longer be secure. This information may include other keys, or other sensitive
data protected by the keys. A reduction in the security strength provided by an algorithm or
key has the following implications:
• Encrypted information: The security of encrypted information that was available at any
time to unauthorized entities in its encrypted form should be considered suspect. For
example, keys that were transmitted in encrypted form (e.g., using a key-wrapping key
or key-transport key and an algorithm or key length that is later broken) may need to be
considered as compromised, since an adversary could have saved the encrypted form of
the keys for later decryption in case methods for breaking the algorithm would
eventually be found (see Section 5.5 for a discussion of key compromise). Even if the
transmitted, encrypted information is subsequently re-encrypted for storage using a
different key or algorithm, the information may already be compromised because of the
weakness of the transmission algorithm or key.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Encrypted information that was not “exposed” in this manner (e.g., not transmitted)
may still be secure, even though the encryption algorithm or key length no longer
provides adequate protection. For example, if the encrypted form of the keys and the
information protected by those keys was never transmitted, then the information may
still be confidential.
The lessons to be learned are that an encryption mechanism used for information that
will be available to unauthorized entities in its encrypted form (e.g., via transmission)
should provide a high level of security protection, and the use of each key should be
limited (i.e., the cryptoperiod should be short) so that a compromised key cannot be
used to reveal very much information. If the algorithm itself is broken27
, an adversary is
forced to perform more work when each key is used to encrypt a very limited amount
of information in order to decrypt all of the information. See Section 5.3.6 for a
discussion about cryptoperiods.
• Digital signatures on stored data28
: Digital signatures may be computed on data prior to
transmission and subsequent storage. In this case, both the signed data and the digital
signature would be stored. If the security strength of the signature is later reduced (e.g.,
because of a break of the algorithm), the signature may still be valid if the stored data
and its associated digital signature have been adequately protected from modification
since a time prior to the reduction in strength (e.g., by applying a digital signature using
a stronger algorithm or key). See Section 5.5, item 1 for further discussion. Storage
capabilities are being developed that employ cryptographic timestamps to store
digitally signed data beyond the normal security life of the original signature
mechanism or its keys.
• Symmetric authentication codes on stored data29
: Like digital signatures, symmetric
authentication codes (i.e., MACs) may be computed on data prior to transmission and
subsequent storage. If the received data and authentication code are stored as received,
and the security strength of the authentication algorithm or key is later reduced (e.g.,
because of a break of the algorithm), the authentication code may still be valid if the
stored data and its associated authentication code have been adequately protected from
modification since a time prior to the reduction in strength (e.g., by applying another
authentication code using a stronger algorithm or key). See Section 5.5, item 1 for
further discussion. Storage capabilities are being developed that employ cryptographic
timestamps to store authenticated data beyond the normal security life of the original
authentication mechanism or its keys.
27
It is easier to recover a key than exhaustive search.
28
Digital signatures on data that is transmitted, but not stored are not considered, as their value is considered to be
short-lived, e.g., the digital signature was intended to be used to detect errors introduced only during transmission.
29
Symmetric authentication codes on data that is transmitted, but not stored are not considered, as their value is
considered to be short-lived.
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6 Protection Requirements for Cryptographic Information
This section gives guidance on the types of protection required for keying material.
Cryptographic keying material is defined as the cryptographic key and associated information
required to use the key (i.e., the metadata). The specific information varies, depending on the
type of key. The cryptographic keying material must be protected in order for the security
services to be “meaningful.” A FIPS 140-validated cryptographic module may provide much
of the protection needed; however, whenever the keying material exists external to a [FIPS140]
cryptographic module, additional protection is required. The type of protection needed depends
on the type of key and the security service for which the key is used. [SP800-152] provides
guidance for Federal Cryptographic Key Management Systems (FCKMSs) on the protection of
keys and metadata when outside a FIPS 140-validated cryptographic module, as well as other
key management factors to be addressed.
6.1 Protection and Assurance Requirements
Keying material should be (operationally) available as long as the associated cryptographic
service is required. Keys may be maintained within a cryptographic module while they are
being actively used, or they may be stored externally (provided that proper protection is
afforded) and recalled as needed. Some keys may need to be archived if required beyond the
key’s originator-usage period (see Section 5.3.5 for a discussion of the originator-usage
period).
The following protections and assurances may be required for the keying material.
Integrity protection shall be provided for all keying material. Integrity protection always
involves checking the source and format of received keying material (see Section 5.4.1).
When the key exists within a validated cryptographic module, appropriate integrity
protection is provided when the cryptographic module conforms to [FIPS140], at a security
level that is consistent with the [FIPS 199] impact level associated with the data to be
protected by the key (see [SP800-152]). When a key is available outside a cryptographic
module, integrity protection shall be provided by appropriate cryptographic integrity
mechanisms (e.g. cryptographic checksums, cryptographic hash functions, MACs, and
digital signatures), non-cryptographic integrity mechanisms (e.g. CRCs, parity checks, etc.)
(see Appendix A), or physical protection mechanisms. Guidance for the selection of
appropriate integrity mechanisms is given in Sections 6.2.1.2 and 6.2.2.2.
Confidentiality protection for all symmetric and private keys shall be provided. Public keys
generally do not require confidentiality protection. When the symmetric or private key
exists within a validated cryptographic module, appropriate confidentiality protection is
provided when the cryptographic module conforms to [FIPS140], at a security level that is
consistent with the [FIPS199] impact level associated with the data to be protected by the
key (see [SP800-152]). When a symmetric or private key is available outside a
cryptographic module, confidentiality protection shall be provided either by encryption
(e.g., key wrapping) at an appropriate security strength (see [SP800-152]), by the use of
separate key components (see Section 6.2.1.3) or by controlling access to the key via
physical means (e.g. storing the keying material in a safe with limited access). The security
and operational impact of specific confidentiality mechanisms varies. Guidance for the
selection of appropriate confidentiality mechanisms is given in Sections 6.2.1.3 and 6.2.2.3.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Association protection shall be provided for a cryptographic security service by ensuring
that the correct keying material is used with the correct data in the correct application or
equipment. Guidance for the selection of appropriate association protection is given in
Sections 6.2.1.4 and 6.2.2.4.
Assurance of domain-parameter and public-key validity provides confidence that the
parameters and keys are arithmetically correct (see Sections 5.4.2 and 5.4.3). Guidance for
the selection of appropriate assurance mechanisms is given in [SP800-56A] and [SP800-
89], as well as in this document.
Assurance of private key possession provides assurance that the owner of a public key
actually possesses the corresponding private key (see Section 5.4.4).
The period of protection for cryptographic keys, associated key information, and cryptographic
parameters (e.g. initialization vectors) depends on the type of key, the associated cryptographic
service, and the length of time for which the cryptographic service is required. The period of
protection includes the cryptoperiod of the key (see Section 5.3). The period of protection is
not necessarily the same for integrity as it is for confidentiality. Integrity protection may only
be required until a key is no longer used (but not yet destroyed), but confidentiality protection
may be required until the key is actually destroyed.
6.1.1 Summary of Protection and Assurance Requirements for Cryptographic Keys
Table 5 provides a summary of the protection requirements for keys during distribution and
storage. Methods for providing the necessary protection are discussed in Section 6.2.
Guide to Table 5:
a. Column 1 (Key Type) identifies the key types.
b. Column 2 (Security Service) indicates the type of security service that is provided by
the key in conjunction with a cryptographic technique. In some cases, the word
"support" is used in this column. This means that the associated key is used to support
the primary cryptographic services of confidentiality, integrity authentication, and
source authentication. For example, a key-agreement key may support a confidentiality
service by establishing the key used to provide confidentiality; an RBG key supports
the use of cryptography because it is used to provide the random values for generating
the keys to be used to cryptographically protect information.
c. Column 3 (Security Protection) indicates the type of protection required for the key
(i.e., integrity and confidentiality).
d. Column 4 (Association Protection) indicates the types of associations that need to be
protected for that key, such as associating the key with the usage or application, the
authorized communications participants or other indicated information. The association
with domain parameters applies only to algorithms where they are used.
e. Column 5 (Assurances Required) indicates whether assurance of public-key validity
and/or assurance of private-key possession needs to be obtained as defined in [SP800-
56A], [SP800-56B], [SP800-89] and this Recommendation. Assurance of public-key
validity provides a degree of confidence that a key is arithmetically correct. See Section
5.4.3 for further details. Assurance of private-key possession provides a degree of
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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confidence that the entity providing a public key actually possessed the associated
private key at some time. See Section 5.4.4 for further details.
f. Column 6 (Period of Protection) indicates the length of time that the integrity and/or
confidentiality of the key needs to be maintained (see Section 5.3). Symmetric keys and
private keys shall be destroyed at the end of their period of protection (see Sections
8.3.4 and 9.3).
Table 5: Protection requirements for cryptographic keys
Key Type
Security
Service
Security
Protection
Association
Protection
Assurances
Required
Period of
Protection
Private
signature key
Source
authentication
Integrity
authentication
Support non-
repudiation
Integrity30
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Domain parameters
(when used)
Public signatureverification
key
Possession From generation
until the end of the
cryptoperiod
Public
signature-
verification
key
Source
authentication
Integrity
authentication
Support non-
repudiation
Integrity Usage or application
Key pair owner
Domain parameters
(when used)
Private signature key
Signed data
Validity From generation
until no protected
data needs to be
verified
Symmetric
authentication
key
Source
authentication
Integrity
authentication
Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Other authorized
entities
Authenticated data
From generation
until no protected
data needs to be
verified
Private
authentication
key
Source
authentication
Integrity
authentication
Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Public
authentication key
Domain parameters
(when used)
Possession From generation
until the end of the
cryptoperiod
Public
authentication
key
Source
authentication
Integrity
authentication
Integrity Usage or application
Key pair owner
Authenticated data
Private
authentication key
Domain parameters
(when used)
Validity From generation
until no protected
data needs to be
authenticated
30
Integrity protection can be provided by a variety of means. See Sections 6.2.1.2 and 6.2.2.2.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Key Type
Security
Service
Security
Protection
Association
Protection
Assurances
Required
Period of
Protection
Symmetric
data-
encryption/
decryption key
Confidentiality Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Other authorized
entities
Plaintext/Encrypted
data
From generation
until the end of the
lifetime of the data
or the end of the
cryptoperiod,
whichever comes
later
Symmetric
key-wrapping
key
Support Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Other authorized
entities
Encrypted keys
From generation
until the end of the
cryptoperiod or until
no wrapped keys
require protection,
whichever is later.
Symmetric
RBG keys
Support Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application From generation
until replaced
Symmetric
master key
Support Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Other authorized
entities
Derived keys
From generation
until the end of the
cryptoperiod or the
end of the lifetime
of the derived keys,
whichever is later.
Private keytransport
key
Support Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Encrypted keys
Public key-transport
key
Possession From generation
until the end of the
period of protection
for all transported
keys
Public keytransport
key
Support Integrity Usage or application
Key pair owner
Private key-transport
key
Validity From generation
until the end of the
cryptoperiod
Symmetric
key-agreement
key
Support Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Other authorized
entities
From generation
until the end of the
cryptoperiod or until
no longer needed to
determine a key,
whichever is later
Private static
key-agreement
key
Support Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Domain parameters
(when used)
Public static keyagreement
key
Possession From generation
until the end of the
cryptoperiod or until
no longer needed to
determine a key,
whichever is later
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Key Type
Security
Service
Security
Protection
Association
Protection
Assurances
Required
Period of
Protection
Public static
key-agreement
key
Support Integrity Usage or application
Key pair owner
Domain parameters
(when used)
Private static keyagreement
key
Validity From generation
until the end of the
cryptoperiod or until
no longer needed to
determine a key,
whichever is later
Private
ephemeral
key-agreement
key
Support Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Public ephemeral
key-agreement key
Domain parameters
(when used)
From generation
until the end of the
key-agreement
process
After the end of the
process, the key
shall be destroyed
Public
ephemeral
key-agreement
key
Support Integrity31
Key pair owner
Private ephemeral
key-agreement key
Usage or application
Domain parameters
(when used)
Validity From generation
until the keyagreement
process is
complete
Symmetric
authorization
keys
Authorization Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Other authorized
entities
From generation
until the end of the
cryptoperiod of the
key
Private
authorization
key
Authorization Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Public authorization
key
Domain parameters
(when used)
Possession From generation
until the end of the
cryptoperiod of the
key
Public
authorization
key
Authorization Integrity Usage or application
Key pair owner
Private authorization
key
Domain parameters
(when used)
Validity From generation
until the end of the
cryptoperiod of the
key
31
The confidentiality of public ephemeral key-agreement keys may not be protected during transmission;
however, the key-agreement protocols may be designed to detect unauthorized substitutions and modifications of
the transmitted public ephemeral keys. In this case, the protocols form the data integrity mechanism.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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6.1.2 Summary of Protection Requirements for Other Cryptographic or Related
Information
Table 6 provides a summary of the protection requirements for other cryptographic information
during distribution and storage. Mechanisms for providing the necessary protection are
discussed in Section 6.2.
Guide to Table 6:
a. Column 1 (Cryptographic Information Type) identifies the type of cryptographic
information.
b. Column 2 (Security Service) indicates the type of security service provided by the
cryptographic information.
c. Column 3 (Security Protection) indicates the type of security protection for the
cryptographic information.
d. Column 4 (Association Protection) indicates the relevant types of associations for each
type of cryptographic information.
e. Column 5 (Assurance of Domain Parameter Validity) indicates the cryptographic
information for which assurance shall be obtained as defined in [SP800-56A] and
[SP800-89] and in Section 5.4 of this Recommendation. Assurance of domainparameter
validity gives confidence that domain parameters are arithmetically correct.
f. Column 6 (Period of Protection) indicates the length of time that the integrity and/or
confidentiality of the cryptographic information needs to be maintained. The
cryptographic information shall be destroyed at the end of the period of protection (see
Section 8.3.4).
Table 6: Protection requirements for other cryptographic or related material
Crypto.
Information
Type
Security
Service
Security
Protection
Association
Protection
Assurance
of Domain
Parameter
Validity
Period of Protection
Domain
parameters
Depends on the
key assoc. with
the parameters
Integrity Usage or application
Private and public
keys
Yes From generation until
no longer needed to
generate keys or
verify signatures
Initialization
vectors
Depends on the
algorithm
Integrity32
Protected data From generation until
no longer needed to
process the protected
data
32
IVs are not generally protected during transmission; however, the decryption system may be designed to detect
or minimize the effect of unauthorized substitutions and modifications to transmitted IVs. In this case the
decryption system is the data-integrity mechanism.
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Crypto.
Information
Type
Security
Service
Security
Protection
Association
Protection
Assurance
of Domain
Parameter
Validity
Period of Protection
Shared secrets Support Confidentiality
Integrity
From generation until
the end of the
transaction.
The shared secret
shall be destroyed at
the end of the period
of protection
RBG Seeds Support Confidentiality
Integrity
Usage or application Used once and
destroyed
immediately after use
Other public
information
Support Integrity Usage or application
Other authorized
entities
Data processed
using the nonce
From generation until
no longer needed to
process data using
the public
information
Other secret
information
Support Confidentiality
Integrity
Usage or application
Other authorized
entities
Data processed
using the secret
information
From generation until
no longer needed to
process data using
the secret
information
Intermediate
results
Support Confidentiality
Integrity
Usage or application From generation until
no longer needed and
the intermediate
results are destroyed
Key-control
information
(e.g., IDs,
purpose)
Support Integrity Key From generation until
the associated key is
destroyed
Random
number
Support Integrity
Confidentiality
(depends on
usage)
From generation until
no longer needed,
and the random
number is destroyed
Password Source
authentication;
Key derivation
Integrity
Confidentiality
Usage or application
Owning entity
From generation until
replaced or no longer
needed to
authenticate the
entity or to derive
keys
Audit
information
Support Integrity
Access
authorization
Audited events
Key control
information
From generation until
no longer needed
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6.2 Protection Mechanisms
During the lifetime of cryptographic information, the information is either “in transit” (e.g., is
in the process of being manually distributed or distributed using automated protocols to the
authorized communication participants for use by those entities), “at rest” (e.g., the information
is in storage) or “in use.” In all cases, the keying material shall be protected in accordance with
Section 6.1.
For keys that are in use, the keys shall reside (and be used) within appropriate cryptographic
modules; note that a key being in use does not preclude that key from also being
simultaneously in transit and/or in storage.
While in transit or in storage, the choice of protection mechanisms may vary. Although several
methods of protection are provided in the following subsections, not all methods provide equal
security. The method should be carefully selected. In addition, the mechanisms prescribed do
not, by themselves, guarantee protection. The implementation and the associated key
management need to provide adequate security to prevent any feasible attack from being
successful.
6.2.1 Protection Mechanisms for Cryptographic Information in Transit
Cryptographic information in transit may be keying material that is being distributed in order
to obtain a cryptographic service (e.g., establish a key that will be used to provide
confidentiality) (see Section 8.1.5), cryptographic information that is being backed up or
archived for possible use or recovery in the future (see Sections 8.2.2 and 8.3.1), or is in the
process of being recovered (see Sections 8.2.2.2, 8.3.1 and Appendix B). This may be
accomplished manually (i.e., via a trusted courier), in an automated fashion (i.e., using
automated communication protocols) or by some combination of manual and automated
methods. For some protocols, the protections are provided by the protocol; in other cases, the
protection of the keying material is provided directly to the keying material (e.g., the keying
material is encrypted prior to transmission for decryption only by the receiving party). It is the
responsibility of the originating entity to apply protection mechanisms, and the responsibility
of the recipient to undo or check the mechanisms used.
6.2.1.1 Availability
Since communications may be garbled, intentionally altered, or destroyed, the availability of
cryptographic information after transit cannot be assured using cryptographic methods.
However, availability can be supported by redundant or multiple channels, store and forward
systems (deleting by the sender only after confirmation of receipt), error correction codes, and
other non-cryptographic mechanisms.
Communication systems should incorporate non-cryptographic mechanisms to ensure the
availability of transmitted cryptographic information after it has been successfully received,
rather than relying on retransmission by the original sender for future availability
6.2.1.2 Integrity
Integrity protection involves both the prevention and detection of modifications to information.
When modifications are detected, measures may be taken to restore the information to its
unaltered form. Cryptographic mechanisms are often used to detect unauthorized
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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modifications. The integrity of cryptographic information during transit shall be protected
using one or more of the following mechanisms:
1. Manual method (physical protection is provided):
(a) An integrity mechanism (e.g., a CRC, MAC or digital signature) is used on the
information, and the resulting code is provided to the recipient for subsequent
verification. Note: A CRC may be used instead of a MAC or digital signature, since
the physical protection is only intended to protect against intentional modifications.
-OR(b)
The keying material is used to perform the intended cryptographic operation. If the
received information does not conform to the expected format, or the data is
inconsistent in the context of the application, then the keying material may have
been corrupted.
2. Automated distribution via communication protocols (provided by the user or by the
communication protocol):
(a) An approved cryptographic integrity mechanism (e.g., a MAC or digital signature)
is used on the information, and the resulting code is provided to the recipient for
subsequent verification. Note that a CRC is not approved for this purpose. The
integrity mechanism may be applied only to the cryptographic information, or may
be applied to an entire message.
-OR(b)
The keying material is used to perform the intended cryptographic operation. If the
use of the keying material produces incorrect results, or the data is inconsistent in
the context of the application, then the received keying material may have been
corrupted.
The response to the detection of an integrity failure will vary, depending on the specific
environment. Improper error handling can allow attacks (e.g., side channel attacks). A security
policy (see [SP800-57, Part 2]) should define the response to such an event. For example, if an
error is detected in the received information, and the receiver requires that the information is
entirely correct (e.g., the receiver cannot proceed when the information is in error), then:
a. The information should not be used,
b. The recipient may request that the information be resent (retransmissions should be
limited to a predetermined maximum number of times), and
c. Information related to the incident should be stored in an audit log to later identify the
source of the error.
6.2.1.3 Confidentiality
Keying material may require confidentiality protection during transit. If confidentiality
protection is required, the keying material shall be protected using one or more of the
following mechanisms:
1. Manual method:
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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(a) The keying material is encrypted (e.g., wrapped) using an approved technique that
provides protection at a security strength that meets or exceeds the security strength
required of the keying material.
-OR(b)
The keying material is separated into key components, with each key component
being generated at a security strength that meets or exceeds the security strength
required of the keying material. Each key component is handled, using splitknowledge
procedures (see Sections 8.1.5.2.1 and 8.1.5.2.2.1), so that no single
individual can acquire access to all key components.
-OR(c)
Appropriate physical and procedural protection is provided (e.g., by using a trusted
courier).
2. Automated distribution via communication protocols: The keying material is encrypted
(e.g., wrapped) using an approved technique that provides protection at the security
strength that meets or exceeds the security strength required of the keying material.
6.2.1.4 Association with Usage or Application
The association of keying material with its usage or application shall be either specifically
identified during the distribution process or be implicitly defined by the use of the application.
See Section 6.2.3 for a discussion of the metadata associated with keys.
6.2.1.5 Association with Other Entities
The association of keying material with the appropriate entity (e.g., the entity that shares the
keying material) shall be either specifically identified during the distribution process (e.g.,
using public-key certificates) or be implicitly defined by the use of the application. See Section
6.2.3 for a discussion of the metadata associated with keys.
6.2.1.6 Association with Other Related Information
Any association with other related information (e.g., domain parameters, the
encryption/decryption key or IVs) shall be either specifically identified during the distribution
process or be implicitly defined by the use of the application. See Section 6.2.3 for a discussion
of the metadata associated with the other related information.
6.2.2 Protection Mechanisms for Information in Storage
Cryptographic information may be at rest in some device or storage media. This may include
copies of the information that is also in transit or in use. Information-at-rest (i.e., stored
information, including information contained within a cryptographic module) shall be
protected in accordance with Section 6.1. A variety of protection mechanisms may be used.
The cryptographic information may be stored so as to be immediately available to an
application (e.g., on a local hard disk or a server); this would be typical for keying material
stored within a cryptographic module or in immediately accessible storage (e.g., on a local
hard drive). The keying material may also be stored in electronic form on a removable media
(e.g., a CD-ROM), in a remotely accessible location, or in hard copy form and placed in a safe;
this would be typical for backup or archive storage.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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6.2.2.1 Availability
Cryptographic information may need to be readily available for as long as data is protected by
the information. A common method for providing this protection is to make one or more copies
of the cryptographic information and store them in separate locations. During a key’s
cryptoperiod, keying material requiring long-term availability should be stored in both normal
operational storage (see Section 8.2.1) and in backup storage (see Section 8.2.2.1).
Cryptographic information that is retained after the end of a key’s cryptoperiod should be
placed in archive storage (see Section 8.3.1). This Recommendation does not preclude the use
of the same storage media for both backup and archive storage.
Specifics on the long-term availability requirement for each key type are addressed for backup
storage in Section 8.2.2.1, and for archive storage in Section 8.3.1.
The recovery of this cryptographic information for use in replacing cryptographic information
that is lost (e.g., from normal storage), or in performing cryptographic operations after the end
of a key’s cryptoperiod is discussed in Sections 8.2.2.2 (recovery during normal operations)
and 8.3.1 (recovery from archive storage), and in Appendix B.
Even though the primary focus of this section is to provide assurance of the availability of
cryptographic information, there is at least one example where denying the availability of this
information may be desired, namely when sanitizing large volumes of information that have
been encrypted. In this case, cryptographic sanitization (i.e., destroying the key used to decrypt
the information) is suggested (see [SP 800-88]).
6.2.2.2 Integrity
Integrity protection is concerned with ensuring that the information is correct. Absolute
protection against modification is not possible. The best that can be done is to use reasonable
measures to prevent modifications, to use methods to detect any modifications that occur (with
a very high probability), and to restore the information to its original content when
unauthorized modifications have been detected.
All cryptographic information requires integrity protection. Integrity protection shall be
provided by physical mechanisms, cryptographic mechanisms or both.
Physical mechanisms include the use of:
1. A validated cryptographic module or operating system that limits access to the stored
information,
2. A computer system or media that is not connected to other systems, and
3. A physically secure environment with appropriate access controls that is outside a
computer system (e.g., in a safe with limited access).
Cryptographic mechanisms include the use of:
a. An approved cryptographic integrity mechanism (e.g., a MAC or digital signature) that
is computed on the information and is later used to verify the integrity of the stored
information, and
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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b. Performing the intended cryptographic operation; this assumes that the correct result is
easily determined. If the received information is incorrect, it is possible that the keying
material may have been corrupted.
In order to restore the cryptographic information when an error is detected, one or more copies
of the information should be maintained in physically separate locations (i.e., in backup or
archive storage; see Sections 8.2.2.1 and 8.3.1). The integrity of each copy should be
periodically checked.
6.2.2.3 Confidentiality
One of the following mechanisms shall be used to provide confidentiality for private or secret
keying material in storage:
1. Encryption (or key wrapping) with an approved algorithm in a [FIPS140]
cryptographic module; the encryption shall use an approved technique that
provides protection at the security strength that meets or exceeds the security
strength required of the keying material.
-OR-
2. Physical protection provided by a [FIPS140] cryptographic module, at a security
level that is consistent with the [FIPS199] impact level associated with the data to
be protected by the key (see [SP800-152]).
-OR-
3. Physical protection provided by secure storage with controlled access (e.g., a safe
or protected area).
6.2.2.4 Association with Usage or Application
Cryptographic information is used with a given cryptographic mechanism (e.g., digital
signatures or a key establishment scheme) or with a particular application. Protection shall be
provided to ensure that the information is not used incorrectly (e.g., not only must the usage or
application be associated with the keying material, but the integrity of this association must be
maintained). This protection can be provided by separating the cryptographic information from
that of other mechanisms or applications, or by the use of appropriate metadata associated with
the information. Section 6.2.3 addresses the metadata associated with cryptographic
information.
6.2.2.5 Association with the Other Entities
Some cryptographic information needs to be correctly associated with another entity (e.g., the
key source), and the integrity of this association shall be maintained. For example, a
symmetric (secret) key used for the encryption of information, or the computation of a MAC
needs to be associated with the other entity(ies) that share(s) the key. Public keys need to be
correctly associated (e.g., cryptographically bound) with the owner of the key pair (e.g., using
public-key certificates).
The cryptographic information shall retain its association during storage by separating the
information by “entity” or application, or by using appropriate metadata for the information.
Section 6.2.3 addresses the metadata used for cryptographic information.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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6.2.2.6 Association with Other Related Information
An association may need to be maintained between protected information and the keying
material that is used to protect that information. In addition, keys may require association with
other keying material (see Section 6.2.1.6).
Storing the information together or providing some linkage or pointer between the information
satisfies the association requirement. Often, the linkage between a key and the information it
protects is accomplished by providing an identifier for a key, storing the identifier with the key
in the key’s metadata, and storing the key’s identifier with the protected information. The
association shall be maintained for as long as the protected information needs to be processed.
Section 6.2.3 addresses the use of metadata for cryptographic information.
6.2.3 Metadata Associated with Cryptographic Information
Metadata may be used with cryptographic information to define the use of that information or
to provide a linkage between cryptographic information.
6.2.3.1 Metadata for Keys
Metadata is used to provide information about the key, including its parameters, or the
intended use of a key, and as such, contains the key’s control information. Different
applications may require different metadata elements for the same key type, and different
metadata elements may be required for different key types. It is the responsibility of an
implementer to select suitable metadata elements for keys. When metadata is used, the
metadata should accompany a key (i.e., the metadata is typically stored or transmitted with a
key). Some examples of metadata elements are:
1. Key identifier;
2. Information identifying associated keys (e.g., the association between a public and
private key);
3. Identity of the key’s owner or the sharing entity(ies);
4. Cryptoperiod (e.g., the start and end dates);
5. Key type (e.g., a signing private key, encryption key, or master key);
6. Application (e.g., purchasing or email);
7. Sensitivity of the information protected by the key;
8. Counter33
;
9. Domain parameters (e.g., the domain parameters used by DSA or ECDSA, or a pointer
to them);
10. Key state (e.g., pre-activation, active or destroyed);
11. Key status/history (e.g., distributed or revoked (with the revocation reason));
12. Key-wrapping key identifier and the algorithm used for wrapping;
33
Used to detect the playback of a previously transmitted key package.
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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13. Integrity-protection mechanism (e.g., the key and algorithm used to provide
cryptographic protection, and the protection code (e.g., the MAC or digital signature));
and
14. Other information (e.g., the length of the key, any protection requirements, who has
access rights to the key or additional conditions for use).
[SP800-152] provides additional information about the use of metadata, including guidance
about protecting its integrity and association with the related key.
6.2.3.2 Metadata for Related Cryptographic Information
Cryptographic information other than keying material may need metadata to “point to” the
keying material that was used to provide the cryptographic protection for the information. The
metadata may also contain other related cryptographic information. When metadata is used, the
metadata should accompany the information (i.e., the metadata is typically stored or
transmitted with the information) and contain some subset of the following:
1. The type of information (e.g., domain parameters);
2. The source of the information (e.g., the entity that sent the information);
3. The application for using the key (e.g., purchasing or email);
4. Other associated cryptographic information (e.g., a key, MAC or hash value); and
5. Any other information (e.g., who has access rights).
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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7 Key States and Transitions
A key may pass through several states between its generation and its destruction. Figure 3
depicts an example of the key states that a key could assume and the transitions among them.
Figure 3: Key state and transition example.
A key is used differently, depending upon its state in the key’s lifecycle. Key states are defined
from a system point-of-view, as opposed to the point-of-view of a single cryptographic
module. The following sections discuss the states that an operational or backed-up key may
assume, along with transitions to other states, as shown in Figure 3. Additional states may be
applicable for some systems (e.g., a destroyed compromised state, which was depicted in the
example provided in a previous version of this Recommendation), and some of the identified
states may not be needed for other systems (e.g., if keys are to be activated immediately after
generation, the pre-activation state may not be needed, or a decision could be made that the
suspended state will not be used).
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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Transitioning between states often requires recording the event. Suitable places for such
recordings are audit logs and the key's metadata (see Section 6.2.3.1). [SP800-152] also
discusses the logging of these events.
The following sections discuss the example provided in Figure 3.
7.1 Pre-activation State
The key has been generated, but has not been authorized for use. In this state, the key may only
be used to perform proof-of-possession (Section 8.1.5.1.1.2) or key confirmation (Section
4.2.5.5). Other than for proof-of-possession or key-confirmation purposes, a key shall not be
used to apply cryptographic protection to information (e.g., encrypt or sign information to be
transmitted or stored) or to process cryptographically protected information (e.g., decrypt
ciphertext or verify a digital signature) while in this state.
Transition 1: A key enters the pre-activation state immediately upon generation.
Transition 2: If a key is in the pre-activation state, and it has been determined that the key
will not be needed in the future, the key shall transition directly from the preactivation
state to the destroyed state.
In the case of asymmetric keys, both keys of the key pair shall transition to the
destroyed state.
The date and time of the transition shall be recorded.
Transition 3: When a key is in the pre-activation state, and the integrity of the key or the
confidentiality of a key requiring confidentiality protection becomes suspect,
then the key shall transition from the pre-activation state to the compromised
state.
In the case of asymmetric keys, both keys of the key pair shall transition to the
compromised state.
The date and time of the transition shall be recorded. If the key is known by
multiple entities, a revocation notice shall be generated.
Transition 4: Keys shall transition from the pre-activation state to the active state when the
key becomes available for use. This transition may occur upon reaching an
activation date or may occur because of an external event. In the case where
keys are generated for immediate use, this transition occurs immediately after
entering the pre-activation state.
For asymmetric keys associated with a certificate, both keys of the key pair
become active upon the notBefore date in the first certificate issued for the
public key of the key pair.
The date and time of the transition should be recorded.
This transition marks the beginning of the cryptoperiod of a symmetric key or
both keys of an asymmetric key pair (see Section 5.3).
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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7.2 Active State
The key may be used to cryptographically protect information (e.g., encrypt plaintext or
generate a digital signature), to cryptographically process previously protected information
(e.g., decrypt ciphertext or verify a digital signature) or both. When a key is active, it may be
designated for protection only, processing only, or both protection and processing, depending
on its type. For example, private signature keys and public key-transport keys are implicitly
designated for only applying protection; public signature-verification keys and private keytransport
keys are designated for processing only. A symmetric data-encryption key may be
used to encrypt data during its originator-usage period and decrypt the encrypted data during
its recipient-usage period (see Section 5.3.5).
Transition 5: Several key types transition directly from the active state to the destroyed state
if no compromise has been determined and either the key's cryptoperiod has
been reached or the key has been replaced.
Private signature keys and private authentication keys shall transition to the
destroyed state at the end of their respective originator-usage periods (e.g.,
when the notAfter dates are reached on the last certificate issued for the
corresponding public keys). Note that the corresponding public keys transition
to the deactivated state at this time; see transition 8.
A symmetric RBG key shall transition to the destroyed state when replaced by a
new key or when the RBG will no longer be used.
Symmetric master keys and symmetric authorization keys shall transition to the
destroyed state at the end of their respective originator-usage periods34
.
Private ephemeral key-agreement keys shall transition to the destroyed state
immediately after use (see [SP800-56A]). The corresponding public ephemeral
key-agreement keys should transition to the destroyed state when the
corresponding private keys are destroyed35
.
A private authorization key shall transition to the destroyed state at the end of
its cryptoperiod (e,g., when the notAfter dates is reached on the last certificate
issued for the corresponding public key). A public authorization key should
transition to the destroyed state when the corresponding private key is
destroyed36
.
The date and time of the transition shall be recorded.
Transition 6: A key or key pair shall transition from the active state to the compromised state
when the integrity of the key or the confidentiality of a key requiring
confidentiality protection becomes suspect. In this case, the key or key pair
shall be revoked.
34
Recall that the recipient-usage periods of symmetric key-agreement keys and symmetric authorization keys are
the same as their originator-usage periods (see Section 5.6).
35
Recall that the cryptoperiods of the private and public authentication keys are the same (see Section 5.6).
36
Recall that the cryptoperiods of the private and public authorization keys are the same (see Section 5.6).
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In the case of asymmetric key pairs, the compromise pertains explicitly to the
private key of the key pair, but both keys shall transition to the compromised
state at the same time. For example, when a private signature key or private
key-transport key is either compromised or suspected of being compromised,
the corresponding public key also needs to transition to the compromised state.
The date and time of the transition shall be recorded. If the key is known by
multiple entities, a revocation notice shall be generated.
Transition 7: A key or key pair shall transition from the active state to the suspended state if,
for some reason, the key is not to be used for a period of time. For example, a
key may be suspended because the entity associated with the key is on a leave
of absence.
In the case of asymmetric keys, both keys of the key pair shall transition to the
suspended state at the same time.
Symmetric RBG keys shall transition to the compromised state and be replaced,
rather than suspended.
The date, time and reason for the suspension shall be recorded. If the key or key
pair is known by multiple entities, a notification indicating the suspension and
reason shall be generated.
Transition 8: A key or key pair in the active state shall transition to the deactivated state
when it is no longer to be used to apply cryptographic protection to data. The
transition to the deactivated state may be because a symmetric key was replaced
(see Section 8.2.3), because the end of the originator-usage period has been
reached (see Sections 5.3.4 and 5.3.5) or because the key or key pair was
revoked for reasons other than a compromise (e.g., the key's owner is no longer
authorized to use the key).
Symmetric authentication keys, symmetric data encryption/decryption keys,
symmetric key-agreement keys and key wrapping keys transition to the
deactivated state at the end of the key's originator-usage period.
Public signature verification keys, public authentication keys, and private/public
static key-agreement key pairs, transition to the deactivated state at the end of
the originator-usage period for the corresponding private key (e.g., when the
notAfter date is reached on the last certificate issued for the public key). Public
ephemeral key-agreement keys and public authorization keys transition to the
deactivated state if they have not been destroyed when the corresponding
private keys were destroyed (see transition 5).
A private and public key-transport key pair transitions to the deactivated state
when the notAfter date is reached on the last certificate issued for the public
key.
The date and time of the transition should be recorded.
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7.3 Suspended State
The use of a key or key pair may be suspended for several possible reasons; in the case of
asymmetric key pairs, both the public and private keys shall be suspended at the same time.
One reason for a suspension might be a possible key compromise, and the suspension has been
issued to allow time to investigate the situation. Another reason might be that the entity that
owns a digital signature key pair is not available (e.g., is on an extended leave of absence);
signatures purportedly signed during the suspension time would be invalid.
A suspended key or key pair may be restored to an active state at a later time or may be
deactivated or destroyed, or may transition to the compromised state.
A suspended key shall not be used to apply cryptographic protection (e.g., encrypt plaintext or
generate a digital signature). However, a suspended key could be used to process information
that was protected prior to the suspension (e.g., decrypt ciphertext or verify a digital signature),
but the recipient must accept the risk in doing so (e.g., the recipient must understand the reason
and implications of the suspension). For example, if the reason for the suspension is because of
a suspected compromise, it may not be prudent to verify signatures using the public key unless
the key pair is subsequently reactivated. Information for which protection is known to be
applied during the suspension period shall not be processed until leaving the suspended state,
at which time its processing depends on the new state.
Transition 9: Several key types transition from the suspended state to the destroyed state if no
compromise has been determined.
Private signature keys and private authentication keys in the suspended state
shall transition to the destroyed state at the end of their originator-usage periods
(e.g., when the notAfter dates are reached on the last certificate issued for the
corresponding public keys). Note that the corresponding public keys transition
to the deactivated state at this time (see transition 12).
Symmetric master keys and symmetric authorization keys in the suspended state
shall transition to the destroyed state at the end of their originator-usage
periods37
.
Private authorization keys in the suspended state shall transition to the
destroyed state at the end of their originator-usage periods (i.e., when the
notAfter dates are reached on the last certificate issued for the corresponding
public keys). Public authorization keys should transition to the destroyed state
when the corresponding private keys are destroyed38
.
The date and time of the transition shall be recorded.
Transition 10: A key or key pair in the suspended state shall transition to the active state when
the reason for the suspension no longer exists, and the end of the originatorusage
period has not been reached.
37
Recall that the recipient-usage periods of symmetric key-agreement keys and symmetric authorization keys are
the same as their originator-usage periods (see Section 5.3.6).
38
Recall that the cryptoperiods of the private and public authorization keys are the same (see Section 5.6).
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In the case of symmetric keys, the transition needs to be made before the end of
the key's originator-usage period.
For asymmetric keys, the transition needs to be made, for example, before the
notAfter date on the last certificate issued for the public key. In this case, both
the private and public key shall transition at the same time.
The date and time of the transition should be recorded.
Transition 11: A key or key pair in the suspended state shall transition to the compromised
state when the integrity of the key or the confidentiality of a key requiring
confidentiality protection becomes suspect or is confirmed. In this case, the key
or key pair shall be revoked.
In the case of asymmetric key pairs, both the public and private keys shall be
transition at the same time.
The date and time of the transition shall be recorded. If the key is known by
multiple entities, a revocation notice shall be generated.
Transition 12: Several key types transition from the suspended state to the deactivated state if
no compromise has been determined and the suspension is no longer required.
Symmetric authentication keys, symmetric data encryption/decryption keys, and
symmetric key-wrapping keys shall transition to the deactivated state when the
ends of their originator-usage periods have been reached.
Public signature verification keys, public authentication keys, and private/public
static key-agreement key pairs39
transition to the deactivated state at the end of
the private key's originator-usage period (e.g., when the notAfter date is reached
on the last certificate issued for the public key). Public ephemeral keyagreement
keys and public authorization keys transition to the deactivated state
if they have not been destroyed when the corresponding private keys were
destroyed (see transition 9).
A private/public key-transport key pair transitions to the deactivated state at the
end of the key pair's cryptoperiod (e.g., when the notAfter date is reached on the
last certificate issued for the public key).
The date and time of the transition should be recorded.
7.4 Deactivated State
Keys in the deactivated state shall not be used to apply cryptographic protection, but in some
cases, may be used to process cryptographically protected information. If the key has been
revoked (i.e., for reasons other than a compromise), then the key may continue to be used for
39
In the case of public ephemeral key-agreement keys, the cryptoperiod ends at the same time as that of the
corresponding private ephemeral key-agreement key (which transitioned to the destroyed state after use (see
transition 5), However, there is no actual requirement to destroy the public key immediately, so it is listed here as
transitioning to the deactivated state, rather than the destroyed state. However, transitioning directly to the
destroyed state would also be acceptable.
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processing. Note that keys retrieved from an archive can be considered to be in the deactivated
state unless compromised.
• Public signature verification keys may be used to verify the digital signatures generated
before the end of the corresponding private key's originator-usage period (e.g., before
the notAfter date in the last certificate for the public key).
• Symmetric authentication keys, symmetric data encryption keys and symmetric keywrapping
keys may be used to process cryptographically protected information until the
end of the recipient-usage period is reached, provided that the protection was applied
during the key's originator-usage period.
• Public authentication keys may be used to authenticate processes performed before the
end of the corresponding private key's originator-usage period (e.g., before the notAfter
date in the last certificate for the public key).
• Private key-transport keys may be used to decrypt keys that were encrypted using the
corresponding public key before the end of the public key's originator-usage period
(e.g., before the notAfter date in the last certificate for the public key).
• Symmetric key-agreement keys may be used to determine the agreed-upon key,
assuming that sufficient information is available.
• Private/public static key-agreement keys may be used to regenerate agreed-upon keys
that were created before the end of the key pair's cryptoperiod (e.g., before the notAfter
date in the last certificate for the public key, assuming that sufficient information is
available for the key-agreement scheme used).
• Public ephemeral key-agreement keys may be used to regenerate agreed-upon keys
(assuming that sufficient information is available for the key-agreement scheme used).
• Public authorization keys shall not be used.
Keys in the deactivated state may transition to either the compromised or destroyed state at
some point in time.
Transition 13: A key shall transition from the deactivated state to the compromised state when
the integrity of a key or the confidentiality of a key requiring confidentiality
protection becomes suspect. In this case, the key or key pair shall be revoked.
The date, time and reason for the transition shall be recorded. If the key is
known by multiple entities, a revocation notice shall be generated.
Transition 14: A key in the deactivated state should transition to the destroyed state as soon as
it is no longer needed.
The date, time and reason for the transition shall be recorded.
Note that keys retrieved from an archive may be in the deactivated state.
7.5 Compromised State
Generally, keys are compromised when they are released to or determined by an unauthorized
entity. A compromised key shall not be used to apply cryptographic protection to information.
However, in some cases, a compromised key or a public key that corresponds to a
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compromised private key of a key pair may be used to process cryptographically protected
information. For example, a signature may be verified to determine the integrity of signed data
if its signature has been physically protected since a time before the compromise occurred.
This processing shall be done only under very highly controlled conditions, where the users of
the information are fully aware of the possible consequences.
Note that keys retrieved from an archive may be in the compromised state.
Transition 15: A compromised key should transition to the destroyed state when its use will no
longer be allowed or needed.
The date and time of the transition shall be recorded.
7.6 Destroyed State
The key has been destroyed as specified in Section 8.3.4. Even though the key no longer exists
when in this state, certain key metadata (e.g., key state transition history, key name, type, and
cryptoperiod) may be retained for audit purposes (see Section 8.4).
It is possible that a compromise of the destroyed key could be determined after the key has
been destroyed. In this case, the compromise should be recorded.
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8 Key-Management Phases and Functions
The cryptographic key-management lifecycle can be divided into four phases. During each
phase, the keys are in certain specific key states as discussed in Section 7. In addition, within
each phase, certain key-management functions are typically performed. These functions are
necessary for the management of the keys and their associated metadata.
Key-management information is called metadata. The metadata required for key management
might include the identity of a person or system associated with that key or the types of
information that person is authorized to access. Metadata is used by applications to select the
appropriate cryptographic key(s) for a particular service. While the metadata does not appear in
cryptographic algorithms, it is crucial to the implementation of applications and application
protocols.
The four phases of key management are:
1. Pre-operational phase: The keying material is not yet available for normal
cryptographic operations. Keys may not yet be generated, or are in the pre-activation
state. System or enterprise attributes are
established during this phase, as well.
2. Operational phase: The keying material
is available and in normal use. Keys are
in the active or suspended state. Keys in
the active state may be designated as
protect only, process only, or protect and
process; keys in the suspended state can
be used for processing only.
3. Post-operational phase: The keying
material is no longer in normal use, but
access to the keying material is possible,
and the keying material may be used for
processing. Keys are in the deactivated or
compromised states. Keys in the postoperational
phase may be in an archive
(see Section 8.3.1) when not processing
data.
4. Destroyed phase: Keys are no longer
available. Records of their existence may
or may not have been deleted. Keys are in
the destroyed states. Although the keys
themselves are destroyed, the key
metadata (e.g., key name, type,
cryptoperiod, and usage period) may be
retained (see Section 8.4).
A flow diagram for the key management phases
is presented in Figure 4. Seven phase transitions Figure 4: Key management phases.
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are identified in the diagram. A key shall not be able to transfer back to any previous phase.
Transition 1: A key is in the pre-operational phase upon generation (pre-activation state).
Transition 2: If keys are produced, but never used, they may be destroyed by transitioning
from the pre-operational phase directly to the destroyed phase.
Transition 3: When a key in the pre-operational phase is compromised, it transitions to the
post-operational phase (compromised state).
Transition 4: After the required key metadata has been established, keying material has
been generated, and the metadata is associated with the key during the pre-operational
phase, the key is ready to be used by applications and transitions to the operational
phase at the appropriate time.
Transition 5: When a key in the operational phase is compromised, it transitions to the
post-operational phase (compromised state).
Transition 6: When keys are no longer required for normal use (i.e., the end of the
cryptoperiod has been reached and the key is no longer “active”), but access to those
keys needs to be maintained, the key transitions to the post-operational phase.
Transition 7: Some applications will require that access be preserved for a period of time,
and then the keying
material may be
destroyed. When it is
clear that a key in the
post-operational phase
is no longer needed, it
may transition to the
destroyed phase.
The combination of key states
and key phases is illustrated in
Figure 5.
The following subsections
discuss the functions that are
performed in each phase of key
management. A keymanagement
system may not
have all identified functions,
since some functions may not
be appropriate. In some cases,
one or more functions may be
combined, or the functions may
be performed in a different
order. For example, a system
may omit the functions of the
post-operational phase if keys
are immediately destroyed when they are no longer used to apply cryptographic protection or
Figure 5: Key management states and phases.
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are compromised. In this case, keys would move from the operational phase directly to the
destroyed phase.
8.1 Pre-operational Phase
During the pre-operational phase of key management, keying material is not yet available for
normal cryptographic operations.
8.1.1 User Registration Function
During user registration, an entity interacts with a registration authority to become an
authorized member of a security domain. In this phase, a user identifier or device name may be
established to identify the member during future transactions. In particular, security
infrastructures may associate the identification information with the entity’s keys (see Sections
8.1.5 and 8.1.6). The entity may also establish various information during the registration
function, such as email addresses, or role and authorization information. As with identity
information, this information may be associated with the entity’s keys by the infrastructure to
support secure application-level security services.
Since applications will depend upon the identity established during this process, it is crucial
that the registration authority establish appropriate procedures for the validation of identity.
Identity may be established through an in-person appearance at a registration authority, or may
be established entirely out-of-band. Human entities are usually required to provide credentials
(e.g., an identification card or birth certificate), while system entities are vouched for by those
individuals responsible for system operation. The strength (or weakness) of a security
infrastructure will often depend upon the identification process. [FIPS201] and [SP800-63]
address requirements for establishing identity.
User and key registration (see Section 8.1.6) may be performed separately, or in concert. If
performed separately, the user registration process will generally establish a secret value (e.g.,
a password, PIN, or HMAC key); the secret value may be used to authenticate the user's
identity during the key registration step. If performed in concert, the user establishes an
identity and performs key registration in the same process, so the secret value is not required.
8.1.2 System Initialization Function
System initialization involves setting up or configuring a system for secure operation. This
may include algorithm preferences, the identification of trusted parties, and the definition of
domain-parameter policies and any trusted parameters (e.g., recognized certificate policies).
8.1.3 User Initialization Function
User initialization consists of an entity initializing its cryptographic application (e.g., installing
and initializing software or hardware). This involves the use or installation (see Section 8.1.4)
of the initial keying material that may be obtained during user registration. Examples include
the installation of a key at a CA, trust parameters, policies, trusted parties, and algorithm
preferences.
8.1.4 Keying-Material Installation Function
The security of keying-material installation is crucial to the security of a system. For this
function, keying material is installed for operational use within an entity’s software, hardware,
system, application, cryptographic module, or device using a variety of techniques. Keying
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material is installed during initial set up, when new keying material is added to the existing
keying material, and when existing keying material is replaced (e.g., via re-keying or key
derivation − see Sections 8.2.3 and 8.2.4).
The process for the initial installation of keying material (e.g., by manual entry, electronic key
loader, or a vendor during manufacture) shall include the protection of the keying material
during entry into a software/hardware/system/application/device/cryptographic module, taking
into account the requirements of [FIPS140] and its differing requirements for the different
levels of protection, and include any additional procedures that may be required.
Many applications or systems are provided by the manufacturer with keying material that is
used to test that the newly installed application/system is functioning properly. This test keying
material shall not be used operationally.
8.1.5 Key Establishment Function
Key establishment involves the generation and distribution, or the agreement of keying
material for communication between entities. All keys shall be generated within a FIPS 140validated
cryptographic module or obtained from another source approved by the U.S.
Government for the protection of national security information. During the key-establishment
process, some of the keying material may be in transit (i.e., the keying material is being
manually distributed or is being distributed using automated protocols). Other keying material
may be retained locally. In either case, the keying material shall be protected in accordance
with Section 6.
An entity may be an individual (person), organization, device or process. When keying
material is generated by an entity for its own use, one or more of the appropriate protection
mechanisms for stored information in Section 6.2.2 shall be used.
Keying material that is distributed between entities, or among an entity and its sub-entities
(e.g., various individuals, devices or processes within an organization), shall be protected
during distribution using one or more of the appropriate protection mechanisms specified in
Section 6.2.1. Any keying material that is not distributed (e.g., the private key of a key pair, or
one's own copy of a symmetric key) or keying material that is received and subsequently stored
shall be protected using one or more of the appropriate protection mechanisms specified in
Section 6.2.2.
[SP800-133] discusses the generation of keying material.
8.1.5.1 Generation and Distribution of Asymmetric Key Pairs
Key pairs shall be generated in accordance with the mathematical specifications of the
appropriate approved FIPS or NIST Recommendation.
A static key pair shall be generated by the entity that “owns” the key pair (i.e., the entity that
uses the private key in the cryptographic computations), by a facility that distributes the key
pair in accordance with Section 8.1.5.1.3, or by the user and facility in a cooperative process.
When generated by the entity that owns the key pair, a signing private key shall not be
distributed to other entities. In the case of a public signature-verification key and its associated
private key, the owner should generate the keying material, rather than any other entity
generating the keying material for that owner; this will facilitate the support for nonrepudiation.
However, when the owner is an organization, it is acceptable to distribute the
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keying material to the organization's sub-entities (e.g., employees or devices); in this case, the
organization is the true owner, and the sub-entities represent the owner.
Ephemeral keys are often used for key establishment (see [SP800-56A]). They are generated
for each new key-establishment transaction (e.g., unique to each message or session) by the
owner.
The generated key pairs shall be protected in accordance with Section 6.1.1.
8.1.5.1.1 Distribution of Static Public Keys
Static public keys are relatively long-lived and are typically used for several executions of an
algorithm. The distribution of the public key should provide assurance to the receiver of the
public key that the true owner of the key is known (i.e., the claimed owner is the actual owner);
this requirement may be disregarded if anonymity is acceptable. However, the strength of the
overall architecture and trust in the validity of the protected data depends, in large part, on the
assurance of the public-key owner’s identity.
In addition, the distribution of the public key shall provide assurance to the receiver that:
1. The purpose/usage of the key is known (e.g., for RSA digital signatures or ellipticcurve
key agreement),
2. Any parameters associated with the public key are known (e.g., domain parameters),
3. The public key is valid (e.g., the public key satisfies the required arithmetical
properties), and
4. The owner actually possesses the corresponding private key.
8.1.5.1.1.1 Distribution of a Trust Anchor's Public Key in a PKI
The public key of a trusted Certification Authority is the foundation for all PKI-based security
services; the trusted CA is considered to be a trust anchor. The trust anchor's public key is not a
secret, but the authenticity of that public key is the crucial assumption for PKI. Trust anchor
public keys may be obtained through many different mechanisms, providing different levels of
assurance. The types of mechanisms that are provided may depend on the role of the user in the
infrastructure. A user that is only acting as a “relying party” – that is, a user that does not have
keys registered with the infrastructure – may use different mechanisms than a user that
possesses keys registered by the infrastructure.
Trust anchor public keys are frequently distributed as “self-signed” X.509 certificates, that is,
certificates that are signed by the private key corresponding to the public key in the certificate.
Note that, while this document refers to a trusted CA as the “trust anchor” and its certificate as
the “trust anchor certificate,” many other documents use the term “trust anchor” to refer to both
the trusted CA and the CA’s certificate.
Trust anchor certificates are often embedded within an application and distributed with the
application. For example, the installation of a new web browser typically includes the
installation or replacement of the user’s list of trust anchor certificates. Operating systems are
often shipped with “code signing” trust anchor certificates. The user relies upon the
authenticity of the software distribution mechanism to ensure that only valid trust anchor
certificates are installed during installation or replacement. However, in some cases other
applications may install trust anchor certificates in web browsers.
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Trust anchor certificates in web browsers are used for several purposes, including the
validation of S/MIME e-mail certificates and web server certificates for “secure websites” that
use the TLS protocol to authenticate the web server and provide confidentiality. Users who
visit a “secure” website that has a certificate not issued by a trust anchor CA may be given an
opportunity to accept that certificate, either for a single session or permanently. Relying users
should be cautious about accepting certificates from unknown Certification Authorities
so that they do not, in effect, inadvertently add new permanent trust anchor certificates
that are really not trustworthy.
Warning: Roaming users should be aware that they are implicitly trusting all software on the
host systems that they use. They should have concerns about trust anchor certificates used by
web browsers when they use systems in kiosks, libraries, Internet cafes, or hotels, as well as
systems provided by conference organizers to access “secure websites.” The user has had no
control over the trust anchor certificates installed in the host system, and therefore the user is
relying upon the host systems to have made good, sensible decisions about which trust anchor
certificates are allowed; relying parties are not participants in trust anchor certificate selection
when the trust anchor certificates are pre-installed prior to software distribution, and may have
had no part in decisions about which trust anchor certificates are installed thereafter. The user
should be aware that he is trusting the software distribution mechanism to avoid the installation
of malicious code. Extending this trust to cover trust anchor certificates for a given application
may be reasonable, and allows the relying party to obtain trust anchor certificates without any
additional procedures.
When a user registers keys with an infrastructure, additional mechanisms are usually available.
The user interacts securely with the infrastructure to register its keys (e.g., to obtain
certificates), and these interactions may be extended to provide trust anchor information in the
form of a trust anchor certificate. This allows the user to establish trust anchor certificates with
approximately the same assurance that the infrastructure has in the user’s keys. In the case of a
PKI:
1. The initial distribution of a trust anchor certificate should be performed in conjunction
with the presentation of a requesting entity’s public key to a registration authority (RA)
or CA during the certificate request process. In general, the trust anchor's public key,
associated parameters, key use, and assurance of possession are conveyed as a selfsigned
X.509 public-key certificate. In this case, the certificate has been digitally
signed by the private key that corresponds to the public key within the certificate.
While the parameters and assurance of possession may be conveyed in the self-signed
certificate, the identity associated with the trust anchor certificate and other information
cannot be verified from the self-signed certificate itself (see item 2 below).
2. The trusted process used to convey a requesting entity's public key and assurances to
the RA or CA shall also be used to protect the trust anchor's certificate that is conveyed
to the requesting entity. In cases where the requesting entity appears in person, the trust
anchor's certificate may be provided at that time. If a secret value has been established
during user registration (see Section 8.1.1), the trust anchor’s certificate may be
supplied, along with the requesting entity’s certificate.
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8.1.5.1.1.2 Submission to a Registration Authority or Certification Authority
Public keys may be provided to a Certification Authority (CA) or to a registration authority
(RA) for subsequent certification by a CA. During this process, the RA or CA shall obtain the
assurances listed in Section 8.1.5.1.1 from the owner of the key or an authorized representative
(e.g., the firewall administrator), including the owner’s identity.
In general, the owner of the key is identified in terms of an identifier established during user
registration (see Section 8.1.1). The key owner identifies the appropriate uses for the key,
along with any required parameters. In cases where anonymous ownership of the public key is
acceptable, the owner or the registration authority determines a pseudonym to be used as the
identifier. The identifier shall be unique for the naming authority40
.
Proof of Possession (POP) is a mechanism that is commonly used by a CA to obtain assurance
of private-key possession during key registration. In this case, the proof shall be provided by
the reputed owner of the key pair. Without assurance of possession, it would be possible for the
CA to bind the public key to the wrong entity.
The (reputed) owner should provide POP by performing operations with the private key that
satisfy the indicated key use. For example, if a key pair is intended for RSA digital signature
generation, the CA may provide information to be signed using the owner's private key. If the
CA can correctly verify the signature using the corresponding public key, then the owner has
established POP. However, when a key pair is intended to support key establishment (i.e.,
either key agreement or key transport), POP may also be afforded by using the private key to
digitally sign the certificate request (although this is not the preferred method). The private
key-establishment key (i.e., the private key-agreement or private key-transport key) shall not
be used to perform signature operations after certificate issuance.
As with user registration, the strength of the security infrastructure depends upon the methods
used for distributing the key to an RA or CA. There are many different methods, each
appropriate for some range of applications. Some examples of common methods are:
1. The public key and the information identified in Section 8.1.5.1.1 are provided in
person by the public-key owner in person, or by an authorized representative of the
public-key owner.
2. The identity of the public-key owner or an authorized representative of the public-key
owner (i.e., a person, organization, device or process) is established at the RA or CA in
person during user registration. Unique, unpredictable information (e.g., an
authenticator or cryptographic key) is provided at this time by the RA or CA to the
owner or authorized representative as a secret value. The public key and the
information identified in Section 8.1.5.1.1 are provided to the RA or CA using a
communication protocol protected by the secret value. The secret value should be
destroyed by the key owner as specified in Section 8.3.4 upon receiving confirmation
that the certificate has been successfully generated. The RA or CA may maintain this
40
The naming authority is the entity responsible for the allocation and distribution of domain names, ensuring that
the names are unique within the domain. A naming authority is often restricted to a particular level of domains,
such as .com, ,net or .edu.
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secret value for auditing purposes, but the RA or CA should not accept further use of
the secret value to prove identity.
When a specific list of public-key owners are pre-authorized to register keys, identifiers
may be assigned without the owners being present. In this case, it is critical to protect
the secret values from disclosure, and the procedures shall demonstrate that the chain
of custody was maintained. The lifetime of the secret values should be limited, but
shall allow for the public-key owner to appear at the RA or CA, to generate his keys,
and to provide the public key (under the secret value’s protection) to the RA or CA.
Since it may take some time for the public-key owner to appear at the RA or CA, a two
or three-week lifetime for the secret value is probably reasonable.
When public-key owners are not pre-authorized, the RA or CA shall determine the
identifier in the user’s presence. In this case, the time limit may be much more
restrictive, since the public-key owner need only generate his keys and provide the
public key to the CA or RA. In this case, a 24-hour lifetime for the secret value would
be reasonable.
3. The identity of the public-key owner is established at the RA or CA using a previous
determination of the public-key owner’s identity. This is accomplished by “chaining” a
new public-key certificate request to a previously certified digital-signature key pair.
For example, the request for a new public-key certificate is signed by the owner of the
new public key to be certified. The private signature key used to sign the request
should correspond to a public signature-verification key that is certified by the same
CA that will certify the new public key. The request contains the new public key and
any key-related information (e.g., the key use and the key's parameters). In addition, the
CA shall obtain assurance of public-key validity and assurance that the owner
possesses the corresponding private key.
4. The public key, key use, parameters, validity assurance information, and assurance of
possession are provided to the RA or CA, along with a claimed identity. The RA or CA
delegates the verification of the public-key owner’s identity to another trusted process
(e.g., an examination of the public-key owner’s identity by the U.S. Postal Service
when delivering registered mail containing the requested certificate). Upon receiving a
request for certification, the RA or CA generates and sends unique, unpredictable
information (e.g., an authenticator or cryptographic key) to the requestor using a trusted
process (e.g., registered mail sent via the U.S. Postal Service). The trusted process
assures that the identity of the requestor is verified prior to delivery of the information
provided by the RA or CA. The owner uses this information to prove that the trusted
process succeeded, and the RA or CA subsequently delivers the certificate to the
owner. The unique, unpredictable information should be destroyed by the key owner as
specified in Section 8.3.4 upon receiving confirmation that the certificate has been
successfully generated. (The RA or CA may maintain this information for auditing
purposes, but should not accept further use of the unique identifier to prove identity.)
In cases involving an RA, upon receipt of all information from the requesting entity (i.e., the
owner of the new public key), the RA forwards the relevant information to a CA for
certification. The RA and CA, in combination, shall perform any validation or other checks
required for the algorithm with which the public key will be used (e.g., public-key validation)
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prior to issuing a certificate. The CA should indicate the checks or validations that have been
performed (e.g., in the certificate, or in the certificate policy or certification practice
statement). After generation, the certificate is distributed manually or using automated
protocols to the RA, the public-key owner, or a certificate repository (i.e., a directory) in
accordance with the CA’s certification practice statement.
8.1.5.1.1.3 General Distribution
Public keys may be distributed to entities other than an RA or CA in several ways. Distribution
methods include:
1. Manual distribution of the public key itself by the owner of the public key (e.g., in a
face-to-face transfer or by a bonded courier); the mandatory assurances listed in Section
8.1.5.1.1 shall be provided to the recipient prior to the use of the public key
operationally.
2. Manual (e.g., in a face-to-face transfer or by receipted mail) or automated distribution
of a public-key certificate by the public-key owner, the CA, or a certificate repository
(i.e., a directory). The mandatory assurances listed in Section 8.1.5.1.1 that are not
provided by the CA (e.g., public-key validation) shall be provided to or performed by
the receiver of the public key prior to the use of the key operationally.
3. Automated distribution of a public key (e.g., using a communication protocol with
authentication and content integrity). The mandatory assurances listed in Section
8.1.5.1.1 shall be provided to the receiving entity prior to the use of the public key
operationally.
8.1.5.1.2 Distribution of Ephemeral Public Keys
When used, ephemeral public keys are distributed as part of a secure key-agreement protocol.
The key-agreement process (i.e., the key-agreement scheme + the protocol + key confirmation
+ any associated negotiation + local processing) should provide a recipient with the assurances
listed in Section 8.1.5.1.1. The recipient of an ephemeral public key shall obtain assurance of
validity of that key as specified in [SP800-56A] prior to using that key for subsequent steps in
the key-agreement process.
8.1.5.1.3 Distribution of Centrally Generated Key Pairs
When a static key pair is centrally generated, the key pair shall be generated within a FIPS
140-validated cryptographic module or obtained from another source approved by the U.S.
government for protecting national security information for subsequent delivery to the intended
owner of the key pair. A signing key pair generated by a central key-generation facility for its
subscribers will not provide strong support for non-repudiation for those individual
subscribers; therefore, when support for non-repudiation is required by those subscribers, the
subscribers should generate their own signing key pairs. However, if the central keygeneration
facility generates signing key pairs for its own organization and distributes them to
members of the organization, then support for non-repudiation may be provided at an
organizational level (but not an individual level).
The private key of a key pair generated at a central facility shall only be distributed to the
intended owner of the key pair. The confidentiality of the centrally generated private key shall
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be protected, and the procedures for distribution shall include an authentication of the
recipient's identity as established during user registration (see Section 8.1.1).
The key pair may be distributed to the intended owner using an appropriate manual method
(e.g., courier, mail or other method specified by the key-generation facility) or secure
automated method (e.g., a secure communication protocol). The private key shall be
distributed in the same manner as a symmetric key (see Section 8.1.5.2.2). During the
distribution process, each key of the key pair shall be provided with the appropriate protections
for that key (see Section 6.1).
When split-knowledge procedures are used for the manual distribution of the private key, the
key shall be split into multiple key components that have the same security properties as the
original key (e.g., randomness); each key component shall provide no knowledge of the value
of the original key (e.g., each key component shall appear to be generated randomly).
Upon receipt of the key pair, the owner shall obtain assurance of the validity of the public key
(see [SP800-56A], [SP800-56B] and [SP800-89]). The owner shall obtain assurance that the
public and private keys of the key pair are correctly associated (i.e., check that they are a
consistent pair, for example, by checking that a key encrypted under a public key-transport key
can be decrypted by the corresponding private key-transport key).
8.1.5.2 Generation and Distribution of Symmetric Keys
The symmetric keys used for the encryption and decryption of data or other keys and for the
computation of MACs (see Sections 4.2.2 and 4.2.3) shall be determined by an approved
method and shall be provided with protection that is consistent with Section 6.
Symmetric keys shall be either:
1. Generated and subsequently distributed (see Sections 8.1.5.2.1 and 8.1.5.2.2) either
manually (see Section 8.1.5.2.2.1), using a public key-transport mechanism (see
Section 8.1.5.2.2.2), or using a previously distributed or agreed-upon key wrapping key
(see Section 8.1.5.2.2.2),
2. Established using a key-agreement scheme (i.e., the generation and distribution are
accomplished with one process) (see Section 8.1.5.2.3), or
3. Derived from a master key (see Section 8.2.4).
8.1.5.2.1 Key Generation
Symmetric keys determined by key generation methods shall be either generated by an
approved method (e.g., using an approved random number generator), or derived from a
master key (see Section 8.2.4) using an approved key-derivation function (see [SP800-108]).
Also, see [SP800-133].
When split-knowledge procedures are used, the key shall exist outside of a [FIPS140]
cryptographic module as multiple key components. The keying material may be created within
a cryptographic module and then split into components for export from the module, or may be
created as separate components. Each key component shall provide no knowledge of the key
value (e.g., each key component must appear to be generated randomly). If knowledge of k
components is required to construct the original key, then knowledge of any k-1 key
components shall provide no information about the original key other than, possibly, its length.
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Note: A suitable combination function is not provided by simple concatenation; e.g., it is not
acceptable to form a 128-bit key by concatenating two 64-bit key components.
All keys and key components shall be generated within a FIPS 140-validated cryptographic
module or obtained from another source approved by the U.S. Government for the protection
of national security information.
8.1.5.2.2 Key Distribution
Keys generated in accordance with Section 8.1.5.2.1 as key-wrapping keys (i.e., keyencrypting
keys), as master keys to be used for key derivation, or for the protection of
communicated information are distributed manually (manual key transport) or using an
automated key-transport protocol (automated key transport).
Keys used only for the storage of information (i.e., data or keying material) shall not be
distributed except for backup or to other authorized entities that may require access to the
stored information protected by the keys.
8.1.5.2.2.1 Manual Key Distribution
Keys distributed manually (i.e., by other than an automated key-transport protocol) shall be
protected throughout the distribution process. During manual distribution, secret or private
keys shall either be wrapped (i.e., encrypted) or be distributed using appropriate physical
security procedures. If multi-party control is desired, split-knowledge procedures may be used
as well. The manual distribution process shall assure that:
1. The distribution of the keys is from an authorized source,
2. Any entity distributing plaintext keys is trusted by both the entity that generates the
keys and the entity(ies) that receives the keys,
3. The keys are protected in accordance with Section 6, and
4. The keys are received by the authorized recipient.
When distributed in encrypted form, the key shall be encrypted by an approved key-wrapping
scheme using a key-wrapping key that is used only for key wrapping, or by an approved keytransport
scheme using a public key-transport key owned by the intended recipient. The keywrapping
key or public key-transport key shall have been distributed as specified in this
Recommendation.
When using split-knowledge procedures, each key component shall be either encrypted or
distributed separately to each individual. Appropriate physical security procedures shall be
used to protect each key component as sensitive information.
Physical security procedures may be used for all forms of manual key distribution. However,
these procedures are particularly critical when the keys are distributed in plaintext form. In
addition to the assurances listed above, accountability and auditing of the distribution process
(see Sections 9.1 and 9.2) should be used.
8.1.5.2.2.2 Automated Key Distribution/Key Transport/Key Wrapping
Automated key distribution, also known as key transport or key wrapping, is used to distribute
keys via a communication channel (e.g., the Internet or a satellite transmission). This requires
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the prior distribution of a key-wrapping key (i.e., a key-encryption key) or a public keytransport
key as follows:
1. A key-wrapping key shall be generated and distributed in accordance with Sections
8.1.5.2.1 and 8.1.5.2.2, or established using a key-agreement scheme as defined in
Section 8.1.5.2.3.
2. A public key-transport key shall be generated and distributed as specified in Section
8.1.5.1.
Only approved key-wrapping or public key-transport schemes shall be used. The approved
schemes provide assurance that:
a. For symmetric key-wrapping schemes: The key-wrapping key and the distributed key
are not disclosed or modified. Approved key-wrapping methods that provide both
confidentiality and integrity protection are provided in [SP800-38F].
b. For asymmetric key-transport schemes: The private key-transport key and the
distributed key are not disclosed or modified, and correct association between the
private and public key-transport keys is maintained. Approved key-transport schemes
using asymmetric techniques are provided in [SP800-56A] and [SP800-56B].
c. The keys are protected in accordance with Section 6.
In addition, the approved schemes, together with the associated key-establishment protocol,
should provide the following assurances:
d. Each entity in the key-distribution process knows the identifier associated with the
other entity(ies),
e. The keys are correctly associated with the entities involved in the key-distribution
process, and
f. The keys have been received correctly.
8.1.5.2.3 Key Agreement
Key agreement is used in a communication environment to establish keying material using
information contributed by all entities in the communication (most commonly, only two
entities) without actually sending the keying material. Only approved key-agreement schemes
shall be used. Approved key-agreement schemes using asymmetric techniques are provided in
[SP800-56A] and [SP800-56B]. Key agreement uses asymmetric key pairs to calculate shared
secrets, which are then used to derive symmetric keys and other keying material (e.g., IVs).
A key-agreement scheme uses either static or ephemeral asymmetric key pairs or both. The
asymmetric key pairs should be generated and distributed as discussed in Section 8.1.5.1.
Keying material derived from a key-agreement scheme shall be protected as specified in
Section 6.
A key-agreement scheme and its associated key-establishment protocol should provide the
following assurances:
1. The identifiers for entities involved in the key-establishment protocol are correctly
associated with those entities. Assurance for the association of identifiers to entities
may be achieved by the key-agreement scheme or may be achieved by the protocol in
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which key agreement is performed. Note that the identifier may be a “pseudoidentifier,”
not the identifier appearing on the entity’s birth certificate, for example.
In the general case, an identifier is associated with each party involved in the keyestablishment
protocol, and each entity in the key-establishment process must be able
to associate all the other entities with their appropriate identifier. In special cases, such
as the secure distribution of public information on a web site, the association with an
identifier may only be required for a subset of the entities (e.g., only the server).
2. The keys used in the key-agreement scheme are correctly associated with the entities
involved in the key-establishment process.
3. The derived keys are correct.
Keys derived through key agreement and its enabling protocol should not be used to protect
and send information until the three assurances described above have been achieved.
8.1.5.3 Generation and Distribution of Other Keying Material
Keys are often generated in conjunction with or are used with other keying material. This other
keying material shall be protected in accordance with Section 6.2. Table 6 specifies the type(s)
of protection required for keying material other than keys.
8.1.5.3.1 Domain Parameters
Domain parameters are used by some public-key algorithms to generate key pairs, to compute
digital signatures, or to establish keys. Typically, domain parameters are generated
infrequently and used by a community of users for a substantial period of time. Domain
parameters may be distributed in the same manner as the public keys with which they are
associated, or they may be made available at some other accessible site. Assurance of the
validity of the domain parameters shall be obtained prior to use, either by a trusted entity that
vouches for the parameters (e.g., a CA), or by the entities themselves. Assurance of domainparameter
validity is addressed in [SP800-89] and [SP800-56A]. Obtaining this assurance
should be addressed in a CA’s certification practices statement or an organization's security
plan.
8.1.5.3.2 Initialization Vectors
Initialization vectors (IVs) are used by symmetric-key algorithms in several modes of
operation for encryption and decryption, for authentication, or both. The criteria for the
generation and use of IVs are provided in the [SP800-38] series of publications; IVs shall be
protected as specified in Section 6. When distributed, IVs may be distributed in the same
manner as their associated keys, or may be distributed with the information that uses the IVs as
part of the cryptographic mechanism.
8.1.5.3.3 Shared Secrets
Shared secrets are computed during an asymmetric key-agreement scheme and are
subsequently used to derive keying material. Shared secrets are generated as specified by an
appropriate key-agreement scheme (see [SP800-56A] and [SP800-56B]), and shall not be used
directly as keying material.
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8.1.5.3.4 RBG Seeds
A Random Bit Generator (RBG) is a device or algorithm that outputs a sequence of bits that is
unpredictable; RBGs are often called Random Number Generators. Approved RBGs are
specified in [SP800-90]. RBGs depend on the introduction of truly random bits called seeds,
which are used to initialize an RBG and that must be kept secret. An initialized RBG is often
used to generate keys and other values requiring unpredictability. The seeds themselves shall
not be used for any purpose other than RBG input. Seeds shall only be transmitted using
secure channels that protect the confidentiality and integrity of the seeds, as well as providing
replay protection41
and mutual authentication42
.
8.1.5.3.5 Other Public and Secret Information
Public and secret information may be used during the seeding of an RBG (see Section
8.1.5.3.4) or during the generation or establishment of keying material (see [SP800-56A],
[SP800-56B] and [SP800-108]). Public information may be distributed; secret information
shall be protected in the same manner as a private or secret key during distribution.
8.1.5.3.6 Intermediate Results
Intermediate results occur during computation using cryptographic algorithms. These results
shall not be distributed as or with the keying material.
8.1.5.3.7 Random Bits/Numbers
Random bits (or numbers) are used for many purposes, including the generation of keys and
nonces, and the issuing of challenges during communication protocols. Random bits may be
distributed, but whether or not confidentiality protection is required depends on the context in
which the random bits are used.
8.1.5.3.8 Passwords
Passwords are used for identity authentication or authorization, and, in some cases, to derive
keying material (see [SP800-132]). Passwords may be distributed, but their protection during
distribution shall be consistent with the protection required for their use. For example, if the
password will be used to access cryptographic keys that are used to provide 128 bits of security
strength when protecting data, then the password needs to be provided with at least 128 bits of
protection as well. Note that poorly selected passwords may not themselves provide the
required amount of protection for key access and are potentially the weak point of the process;
i.e., it may be far easier to guess the password than to attempt to “break” the cryptographic
protection used on the password. It is the responsibility of users and organizations to select
passwords that provide the requisite amount of protection for the keys they protect.
8.1.6 Key Registration Function
Key registration results in the binding of keying material to information associated with a
particular entity. Keys that would be registered include the public key of an asymmetric key
pair and the symmetric key used to bootstrap an entity into a system. Normally, keys generated
during communications (e.g., using key-agreement schemes or key derivation functions) would
41
Assurance that a valid data transmission is not maliciously or fraudulently repeated or delayed.
42
Authentication by each party in a transaction of the identity of the other party.
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not be registered. Information provided during registration typically includes the identifier of
the entity associated with the keying material and the intended use of the keying material (e.g.,
as a signing key, data-encryption key, etc.). Additional information may include authorization
information or specify a level of trust. The binding is performed after the entity’s identity has
been authenticated by a means that is consistent with the system policy (see Section 8.1.1). The
binding provides assurance to the community-at-large that the keying material is used by the
correct entity in the correct application. The binding is often cryptographic, which creates a
strong association between the keying material and the entity. A trusted third party performs
the binding. Examples of a trusted third party include a Kerberos realm server or a PKI
certification authority (CA). Identifiers issued by a trusted third party shall be unique to that
party.
When a Kerberos realm server performs the binding, a symmetric key is stored on the server
with the corresponding metadata. In this case, the registered keying material is maintained in
secure storage (i.e., the keys are provided with confidentiality and integrity protection).
When a CA performs the binding, the public key and associated information (often called
attributes) are placed in a public-key certificate, which is digitally signed by the CA. In this
case, the registered keying material may be made publicly available.
When a CA provides a certificate for a public key, the public key shall be verified to ensure
that it is associated with the private key known by the purported owner of the public key. This
provides assurance of possession. When POP is used to obtain assurance of possession, the
assurance shall be accomplished as specified in Section 8.1.5.1.1.2.
8.2 Operational Phase
Keying material used during the cryptoperiod of a key is often stored for easy access as
needed. During storage, the keying material shall be protected as specified in Section 6.2.2.
During normal use, the keying material is stored either on the device or module that uses that
material, or on an immediately accessible storage media. When the keying material is required
for operational use, the keying material is acquired from immediately accessible storage when
not present in active memory within the device or module.
To provide continuity of operations when the keying material becomes unavailable for use
from normal operational storage during its cryptoperiod (e.g., because the material is lost or
corrupted), keying material may need to be recoverable. If an analysis of system operations
indicates that the keying material needs to be recoverable, then the keying material shall either
be backed up (see Section 8.2.2.1), or the system shall be designed to allow reconstruction
(e.g., re-derivation) of the keying material. Retrieving or reconstructing keying material from
backup or an archive is commonly known as key recovery (see Section 8.2.2.2).
At the end of a key’s cryptoperiod, a new key needs to be available to replace the old key if
operations are to be continued. This can be accomplished by re-keying (see Section 8.2.3.1) or
by key derivation (see Section 8.2.4). A key shall be destroyed in accordance with Section
8.3.4 and should be destroyed as soon as that key is no longer needed in order to reduce the
risk of exposure.
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8.2.1 Normal Operational Storage Function
One objective of key management is to facilitate the operational availability of keying material
for standard cryptographic purposes. Usually, a key remains operational until the end of the
key’s cryptoperiod (i.e., the expiration date). During normal operational use, keying material is
available either in the device or module (e.g., in RAM) or in an immediately accessible storage
media (e.g., on a local hard disk).
8.2.1.1 Cryptographic Module Storage
Keying material may be stored in the cryptographic module that adds, checks, or removes the
cryptographic protection on information. The storage of the keying material shall be consistent
with Section 6.2.2, as well as with [FIPS140].
8.2.1.2 Immediately Accessible Storage Media
Keying material may need to be stored for normal cryptographic operations on an immediately
accessible storage media (e.g., a local hard drive) during the cryptoperiod of the key. The
storage requirements of Section 6.2.2 shall apply to this keying material.
8.2.2 Continuity of Operations Function
Keying material can become lost or unusable, due to hardware damage, corruption or loss of
program or data files, system policy, or configuration changes. In order to maintain the
continuity of operations, it is often necessary for users and/or administrators to be able to
recover keying materials from backup storage. However, if operations can be continued
without the backup of keying material (e.g., by re-keying), or the keying material can be
recovered or reconstructed without being saved, it may be preferable not to save the keying
material in order to lessen the possibility of a compromise of the keying material or other
cryptographically related information.
The compromise of keying material affects the continuity of operations (see Section 8.4).
When keying material is compromised, the continuity of operations requires the establishment
of entirely new keying material (see Section 8.1.5), following an assessment of what keying
material is affected and needs to be replaced.
8.2.2.1 Backup Storage
The backup of keying material on an independent, secure storage media provides a source for
key recovery (see Section 8.2.2.2). Backup storage is used to store copies of information that
are also currently available in normal operational storage during a key’s cryptoperiod (i.e., in
the cryptographic module, or on an immediately accessible storage media - see Section
8.2.1.1). Not all keys need to be backed up. The storage requirements of Section 6.2.2 apply to
keying material that is backed up. Tables 7 and 8 provide guidance about the backup of each
type of keying material and other related information. An “OK” indicates that storage is
permissible, but not necessarily required. The final determination for backup should be made
based on the application in which the keying material is used. A detailed discussion about the
backup of each type of key and other cryptographic information is provided in Appendix B.3.
Keying material maintained in backup should remain in storage for at least as long as the same
keying material is maintained in storage for normal operational use (see Section 8.2.1). When
no longer needed for normal operational use, the keying material and other related information
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should be removed from backup storage. When removed from backup storage, all traces of the
information in backup storage shall be destroyed in accordance with Section 8.3.4.
A discussion of backup and recovery is provided in [ITLBulletin].
Table 7: Backup of keys
Type of Key Backup?
Private signature key No (in general); support for non-repudiation would be in
question. However, backup may be warranted in some
cases − a CA’s private signing key, for example. When
required, any backed up keys shall be stored under the
owner’s control.
Public signature-verification key OK; its presence in a public-key certificate that is
available elsewhere may be sufficient.
Symmetric authentication key OK
Private authentication key OK, if required by an application.
Public authentication key OK; if required by an application.
Symmetric data encryption key OK
Symmetric key-wrapping key OK
Random number generation key Not necessary and may not be desirable, depending on
the application.
Symmetric master key OK
Private key-transport key OK
Public key-transport key OK; its presence in a public-key certificate that is
available elsewhere may be sufficient.
Symmetric key-agreement key OK
Private static key-agreement key OK
Public static key-agreement key OK; its presence in a public-key certificate that is
available elsewhere may be sufficient.
Private ephemeral key-agreement
key
No
Public ephemeral key-agreement key OK
Symmetric authorization key OK
Private authorization key OK
Public authorization key OK; its presence in a public-key certificate that is
available elsewhere may be sufficient.
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Table 8: Backup of other cryptographic or related information
Type of Keying Material Backup?
Domain parameters OK
Initialization vector OK, if necessary
Shared secret No
RBG seed No
Other public information OK
Other secret information OK
Intermediate results No
Key control information (e.g., IDs,
purpose, etc.)
OK
Random number Depends on the application or use of the random number.
Passwords OK when used to derive keys or to detect the reuse of
passwords; otherwise, No
Audit information OK
8.2.2.2 Key Recovery Function
Keying material that is in active memory or stored in normal operational storage may
sometimes be lost or corrupted (e.g., from a system crash or power fluctuation). Some of the
keying material is needed to continue operations and cannot easily be replaced. An assessment
needs to be made of which keying material needs to be preserved for possible recovery at a
later time.
The decision as to whether key recovery is required should be made on a case-by-case basis.
The decision should be based on:
1. The type of key (e.g., private signature key or symmetric data-encryption key);
2. The application in which the key will be used (e.g., interactive communications or file
storage);
3. Whether the key is “owned” by the local entity (e.g., a private key) or by another entity
(e.g., the other entity's public key) or is shared (e.g., a symmetric data-encryption key
shared by two entities);
4. The role of the entity in a communication (e.g., sender or receiver); and
5. The algorithm or computation in which the key will be used (e.g., does the entity have
the necessary information to perform a given computation if the key were to be
recovered)43
.
43
This could be the case when performing a key-establishment process for some key-establishment schemes (see
[SP800-56A] and [SP800-56B]).
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The factors involved in a decision for or against key recovery should be carefully assessed.
The trade-offs are concerned with continuity of operations versus the risk of possibly exposing
the keying material and the information it protects if control of the keying material is lost. If it
is determined that a key needs to be recovered, and the key is still active (e.g., the cryptoperiod
of the key has not expired, and the key has not been compromised), then the key may be
replaced in order to limit the exposure of the data protected by that key (see Section 8.2.3).
Issues associated with key recovery and discussions about whether or not different types of
cryptographic material need to be recoverable are provided in Appendix B.
8.2.3 Key Change Function
Key change is the replacement of a key with another key that performs the same function as
the original key. There are several reasons for changing a key.
1. The key may have been compromised,
2. The key’s cryptoperiod may be nearing expiration, or
3. It may be desirable to limit the amount of data protected with any given key.
8.2.3.1 Re-keying
If the new key is generated in a manner that is entirely independent of the “value” of the old
key, the process is known as re-keying. This replacement shall be accomplished using one of
the key-establishment methods discussed in Section 8.1.5. Re-keying is used when a key has
been compromised (provided that the re-keying scheme itself is not compromised) or when the
cryptoperiod is nearing expiration.
8.2.3.2 Key Update Function
If the “value” of the new key is dependent on the value of the old key, the process is known as
key update (i.e., the current key is modified to create a new key). Key update is a special case
of key derivation (see Section 8.2.4), where the derived key replaces the key used to derive it.
For example, suppose that K1 is used as an encryption key. When K1 needs to be replaced, it is
used to derive K2. K2 is then used as the new encryption key until it is replaced by K3, which is
derived from K2.
Key update could result in a security exposure if an adversary obtains a key in the chain of
keys and knows the update process used; keys subsequent to the compromised key could easily
be determined.
Federal applications shall not use key update (also, see [SP800-152]).
8.2.4 Key Derivation Methods
Cryptographic keys may be derived from a secret value. The secret value, together with other
information, is input into a key-derivation method (e.g., a key-derivation function) that outputs
the required key(s). In contrast to key change (as discussed in Section 8.2.3), the derived keys
are often used for new purposes, rather than for replacing the secret values from which they are
derived. The derivation method shall be non-reversible (i.e., a one-way function) so that the
secret value cannot be determined from the derived keys. In addition, it shall not be possible to
determine a derived key from other derived keys. It should be noted that the strength of a
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derived key is no greater than the strength of the derivation algorithm and the secret value from
which the key is derived.
Three commonly used key-derivation cases are discussed below.
1. Two parties derive common keys from a common shared secret. This approach is used
in the key-establishment techniques specified in [SP800-56A] and [SP800-56B]. The
security of this process is dependent on the security of the shared secret and the specific
key-derivation method used. If the shared secret is known, the derived keys may be
determined. A key-derivation method specified or allowed in [SP800-56A], [SP800-
56B] or [SP800-56C] shall be used for this purpose. These derived keys may be used to
provide the same confidentiality, identity authentication, and source authentication
services as randomly generated keys, with a security strength determined by the scheme
and key pairs used to generate the shared secret.
2. Keys derived from a key-derivation key (master key). This is often accomplished by
using the key-derivation key, entity ID, and other known information as input to a
function that generates the keys. One of the key-derivation functions defined in
[SP800-108] shall be used for this purpose. The security of this process depends upon
the security of the key-derivation key and the key-derivation function. If the keyderivation
key is known by an adversary, he can generate any of the derived keys.
Therefore, keys derived from a key-derivation key are only as secure as the keyderivation
key itself. As long as the key-derivation key is kept secret, the derived keys
may be used in the same manner as randomly generated keys.
3. Keys derived from a password. A user-generated password, by its very nature, is less
random (i.e., has lower entropy) than is required for a cryptographic key; that is, the
number of passwords that are likely to be used to derive a key is significantly smaller
than the number of keys that are possible for a given key size. In order to increase the
difficulty of exhaustively searching the likely passwords, a key-derivation function is
iterated a large number of times. The key is derived using a password, entity ID, and
other known information as input to the key-derivation function. The security of the
derived key depends upon the security of the password and the key-derivation process.
If the password is known or can be guessed, then the corresponding derived key can be
generated. Therefore, keys derived in this manner are likely to be less secure than
randomly generated keys or keys derived from a shared secret or key-derivation key.
For storage applications, one of the key-derivation methods specified in [SP800-132]
shall be used to derive keys. For non-storage applications, keys derived in this manner
shall be used for integrity, and source authentication purposes only and not for general
encryption.
8.3 Post-Operational Phase
During the post-operational phase, keying material is no longer in operational use, but access
to the keying material may still be possible.
8.3.1 Archive Storage and Key Recovery Functions
A key archive is a repository containing keying material and other related information for
recovery beyond the cryptoperiod of the keys. Not all keying material needs to be archived. An
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organization’s security plan should indicate the types of information that are to be archived
(see [SP800-57, Part 2]).
The archive shall continue to provide the appropriate protections for each key and any other
related information in the archive, as specified in Section 6.2.2. The archive will require a
strong access-control mechanism to limit access to only authorized entities. When keying
material is entered into the archive, it is often time-stamped so that the date-of-entry can be
determined. This date may itself be cryptographically protected so that it cannot be changed
without detection.
If keying material needs to be recoverable (e.g., after the end of its cryptoperiod), either the
keying material shall be archived, or the system shall be designed to allow reconstruction (e.g.,
re-derivation) of the keying material from archived information. Retrieving the keying material
from archive storage or by reconstruction is commonly known as key recovery. The archive
shall be maintained by a trusted party (e.g., the organization associated with the keying
material or a trusted third party).
While in storage, archived information may be either static (i.e., never changing) or may need
to be re-encrypted under a new archive-encryption key from time-to-time. Archived data
should be stored separately from operational data, and multiple copies of archived
cryptographic information should be provided in physically separate locations (i.e., it is
recommended that the key archive be backed up). For critical information that is encrypted
under archived keys, it may be necessary to back up the archived keys and to store multiple
copies of these archived keys in separate locations.
When archived, keying material should be archived prior to the end of the cryptoperiod of the
key. For example, it may be prudent to archive the keying material during key activation.
When no longer required, the keying material shall be destroyed in accordance with Section
8.3.4.
The confidentiality of archived information is provided by an archive-encryption key (one or
more encryption keys that are used exclusively for the encryption of archived information), by
another key that has been archived, or by a key that may be derived from an archived key.
Note that the algorithm with which the archive-encryption key is used may also provide
integrity protection for the encrypted information. When encrypted by the archive-encryption
key, the encrypted keying material shall be re-encrypted by any new archive-encryption key at
the end of the cryptoperiod of the old archive-encryption key. When the keying material is reencrypted,
integrity values on that keying material shall be recomputed. This may impose a
significant burden; therefore, the strength of the cryptographic algorithm and archiveencryption
key shall be selected to minimize the need for re-encryption.
When the archive-encryption key and its associated algorithm do not also provide integrity
protection for the encrypted information, integrity protection shall be provided by a separate
archive-integrity key (i.e., one or more authentication or digital-signature keys that are used
exclusively for the archive) or by another key that has been archived. If integrity protection is
to be maintained at the end of the cryptoperiod of the archive-integrity key, new integrity
values shall be computed on the archived information on which the old archive-integrity key
was applied.
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When the confidentiality and integrity protection of the archived information is provided using
separate processes, the archive-encryption key and archive-integrity key (when used) shall be
different from each other (e.g., independently generated), and shall be protected in the same
manner as their key type (see Section 6). Note that these two services can also be provided
using authenticated encryption, which uses a single cryptographic algorithm operation and a
single key.
Tables 9 and 10 indicate the appropriateness of archiving keys and other cryptographically
related information. An “OK” in column 2 (Archive?) indicates that archival is permissible,
but not necessarily required. Column 3 (Retention period) indicates the minimum time that the
key should be retained in the archive. Additional advice on the storage of keying material in
archive storage is provided in Appendix B.3.
Table 9: Archive of keys
Type of Key Archive? Retention period (minimum)
Private signature key No
Public signature-verification
key
OK Until no longer required to verify data
signed with the associated private key
Symmetric authentication key OK Until no longer needed to authenticate data
or an identity.
Private authentication key No
Public authentication key OK
Symmetric data-encryption
key
OK Until no longer needed to decrypt data
encrypted by this key
Symmetric key-wrapping key OK Until no longer needed to decrypt keys
encrypted by this key
Symmetric random number
generator key
No
Symmetric master key OK, if needed
to derive other
keys for
archived data
Until no longer needed to derive other keys
Private key-transport key OK Until no longer needed to decrypt keys
encrypted by this key
Public key-transport key OK
Symmetric key-agreement key OK
Private static key-agreement
key
OK
Public static key-agreement
key
OK Until no longer needed to reconstruct
keying material.
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Type of Key Archive? Retention period (minimum)
Private ephemeral keyagreement
key
No
Public ephemeral keyagreement
key
OK
Symmetric authorization key No
Private authorization key No
Public authorization key OK
Table 10: Archive of other cryptographic related information
Type of Key Archive? Retention period (minimum)
Domain parameters OK Until all keying material, signatures and
signed data using the domain parameters are
removed from archives
Initialization vector OK; normally
stored with the
protected
information
Until no longer needed to process the
protected data
Shared secret No
RBG seed No
Other public information OK Until no longer needed to process data using
the public information
Other secret information OK Until no longer needed to process data using
the secret information
Intermediate result No
Key control information (e.g.,
IDs, purpose)
OK Until the associated key is removed from
the archive
Random number Depends on the application or use of the
random number
Password OK when used
to derive keys
or to detect the
reuse of
passwords;
otherwise, No
Until no longer needed to (re-)derive keys
or to detect password reuse
Audit information OK Until no longer needed
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The recovery of archived keying material may be required to remove (e.g., decrypt) or check
(e.g., verify a digital signature or a MAC) the cryptographic protections on other archived data;
recovered keys shall not be used to apply cryptographic protection. The key recovery process
results in retrieving or reconstructing the desired keying material from archive storage in order
to perform the required cryptographic operation. Immediately after completing this operation,
the keying material shall be erased from the cryptographic process44
for which it was
recovered (i.e., it shall not be used for normal operational activities). However, the key shall
be retained in the archive (see Section 8.3.4) as long as needed. Further advice on key recovery
issues is provided in Appendix B.
8.3.2 Entity De-registration Function
The entity de-registration function removes the authorizations of an entity to participate in a
security domain. When an entity ceases to be a member of a security domain, the entity shall
be de-registered. De-registration is intended to prevent other entities from relying on or using
the de-registered entity's keying material.
All records of the entity and the entity’s associations shall be marked to indicate that the entity
is no longer a member of the security domain, but the records should not be deleted. To reduce
confusion and unavoidable human errors, identification information associated with the deregistered
entity should not be re-used (at least for a period of time). For example, if a “John
Wilson” retires and is de-registered on Friday, the identification information assigned to his
son “John Wilson”, who is hired the following Monday, should be different.
8.3.3 Key De-registration Function
Registered keying material may be associated with the identity of a key owner, owner
information (e.g., email address), role, or authorization information. When the keying material
is no longer needed, or the associated information becomes invalid, the keying material should
be de-registered (i.e., all records of the keying material and its associations should be marked
to indicate that the key is no longer in use) by the appropriate trusted third party. In general,
this will be the trusted third party that registered the key (see Section 8.1.6).
Keying material should be de-registered when the information associated with an entity is
modified. For example, if an entity's email address is associated with a public key, and the
entity's address changes, the keying material should be de-registered to indicate that the
associated information has become invalid. Unlike the case of a key compromise, the entity
could safely re-register the public key after modifying the entity's information through the user
registration process (see Section 8.1.1).
When a registered cryptographic key is compromised, that key and any associated keying
material shall be de-registered. When the compromised key is the private part of a publicprivate
key pair, the public key shall also be revoked (see Section 8.3.5). If the registration
information associated with a public-private key pair is changed, but the private key has not
been compromised, the public key should be revoked with an appropriate reason code (see
Section 8.3.5).
44
For example, an archived symmetric key could be recovered to decrypt a single message or file, or could be
used to decrypt multiple messages or files, all of which were encrypted using that key during its originator-usage
period.
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8.3.4 Key Destruction Function
When copies of cryptographic keys are made, care should be taken to provide for their eventual
destruction. All copies of the private or symmetric key shall be destroyed as soon as they are
no longer required (e.g., for archival or reconstruction activity) in order to minimize the risk of
a compromise. Keys shall be destroyed in a manner that removes all traces of the keying
material so that it cannot be recovered by either physical or electronic means45
. Public keys
may be retained or destroyed, as desired.
8.3.5 Key Revocation Function
It is sometimes necessary to remove keying material from use prior to the end of its normal
cryptoperiod for reasons that include key compromise, removal of an entity from an
organization, etc. This process is known as key revocation and is used to explicitly revoke a
symmetric key or the public key of a key pair, although the private key corresponding to the
public key is also revoked.
Key revocation may be accomplished using a notification indicating that the continued use of
the keying material is no longer recommended. The notification could be provided by actively
sending the notification to all entities that might be using the revoked keying material, or by
allowing the entities to request the status of the keying material (i.e., a “push” or a “pull” of the
status information). The notification should include a complete identification of the keying
material (excluding the key itself), the date and time of revocation and the reason for
revocation, when appropriate (e.g., a key compromise). Based on the revocation information
provided, other entities could then make a determination of how they will treat information
protected by the revoked keying material.
For example, if a public signature-verification key is revoked because an entity left an
organization, it may be appropriate to honor all signatures created prior to the revocation date
(i.e., to continue to verify those signatures and accept them as valid if the verification is
successful). If a signing private key is compromised, resulting in the revocation of the
corresponding public key, an assessment needs to be made as to whether or not information
signed prior to the revocation notice would be considered as valid.
As another example, a symmetric key that is used to generate MACs may be revoked so that it
will not be used to generate MACs on new information. However, the key may be retained so
that archived documents can be verified.
The details for key revocation should reflect the lifecycle for each particular key. If a key is
used in a pair-wise situation (e.g., two entities communicating using the same encryption key),
the entity revoking the key shall inform the other entity of the revocation. If the key has been
registered with an infrastructure, the entity revoking the key cannot always directly inform the
other entities that may rely upon that key. Instead, the entity revoking the key shall inform the
infrastructure that the key needs to be revoked (e.g., using a certificate revocation request). The
infrastructure shall respond by de-registering the key material (see Section 8.3.3).
45
A simple deletion of the keying material might not completely obliterate the information. For example, erasing
the information might require overwriting that information multiple times with other non-related information,
such as random bits, or all zero or one bits. Keys stored in memory for a long time can become “burned in.” This
can be mitigated by splitting the key into components that are frequently updated (see [DiCrescenzo]).
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In a PKI, key revocation is commonly achieved by including the certificate in a list of revoked
certificates (i.e., a CRL). If the PKI uses online status mechanisms (e.g., the Online Certificate
Status Protocol [RFC 2560]), revocation is achieved by informing the appropriate certificate
status server(s). For example, when a private key is compromised, the corresponding publickey
certificate shall be revoked as soon as possible. Certificate revocation because of a key
compromise indicates that the binding between the owner and the key is no longer to be
trusted; relying parties should not accept the certificate without seriously considering the risks
and consulting the organization's policy about this situation. Other revocation reasons indicate
that, even though the original binding may still be valid and the key was not compromised, the
use of the public key in the certificate should be terminated; again, the relying party should
consult his organization's policy on this issue.
In a symmetric-key system, key revocation could, in theory, be achieved by simply deleting the
key from the server’s storage. Key revocation for symmetric keys is more commonly achieved
by adding the key to a blacklist or compromised key list; this helps satisfy auditing and
management requirements.
8.4 Destroyed Phase
The keying material is no longer available. All records of its existence may have been deleted,
though this is not required. Some organizations may require the retention of certain key
metadata elements for audit purposes. For example, if a copy of an ostensibly destroyed key is
found in an uncontrolled environment or is later determined to have been compromised,
records of the identifier of the key, its type, and its cryptoperiod may be helpful in determining
what information was protected under the key and how best to recover from the compromise.
In addition, by keeping a record of the metadata of both destroyed and compromised keys, one
will be able to track which keys transitioned through a normal lifecycle and which ones were
compromised at some time during their lifecycle. Thus, protected information that is linked to
key names that went through the normal lifecycle may still be considered secure, provided that
the security strength of the algorithm remains sufficient. However, any protected information
that is linked to a key name that has been compromised may itself be compromised.
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9 Accountability, Audit, and Survivability
Systems that process valuable information require controls in order to protect the information
from unauthorized disclosure and modification. Cryptographic systems that contain keys and
other cryptographic information are especially critical. Three useful control principles and their
application to the protection of keying material are highlighted in this section.
9.1 Accountability
Accountability involves the identification of those entities that have access to, or control of,
cryptographic keys throughout their lifecycles. Accountability can be an effective tool to help
prevent key compromises and to reduce the impact of compromises when they are detected.
Although it is preferred that no humans be able to view keys, as a minimum, the key
management system should account for all individuals who are able to view plaintext
cryptographic keys. In addition, more sophisticated key-management systems may account for
all individuals authorized to access or control any cryptographic keys, whether in plaintext or
ciphertext form. For example, a sophisticated accountability system might be able to determine
each individual who had control of any given key over its entire lifespan. This would include
the person in charge of generating the key, the person who used the key to cryptographically
protect data, anyone else known to have accessed the key, and the person who was responsible
for destroying the key when it was no longer needed. Even though these individuals may never
have actually seen the key in plaintext form, they are held accountable for the actions that they
performed on or with the key.
Accountability provides three significant advantages:
1. It aids in the determination of when the compromise could have occurred and what
individuals could have been involved,
2. It tends to protect against compromise, because individuals with access to the key know
that their access to the key is known, and
3. When recovering from a detected key compromise, it is very useful in to know where
the key was used and what data or other keys were protected by the compromised key.
Certain principles have been found to be useful in enforcing the accountability of
cryptographic keys. These principles might not be applicable to all systems or all types of keys.
Some of the principles apply to long-term keys that are controlled by humans. The principles
include:
a. Uniquely identifying keys;
b. Identifying the key user;
c. Identifying the dates and times of key use, along with the data that is protected, and
d. Identifying other keys that are protected by a symmetric or private key.
9.2 Audit
Two types of audit should be performed on key-management systems:
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1. The security plan and the procedures that are developed to support the plan should be
periodically audited to ensure that they continue to support the Key Management Policy
(see [SP800-57, Part 2]).
2. The protective mechanisms employed should be periodically reassessed with respect to
the level of security that they provide and are expected to provide in the future, and that
the mechanisms correctly and effectively support the appropriate policies. New
technology developments and attacks should be taken into consideration.
On a more frequent basis, the actions of the humans that use, operate and maintain the system
should be reviewed to verify that the humans continue to follow established security
procedures. Strong cryptographic systems can be compromised by lax and inappropriate
human actions. Highly unusual events should be noted and reviewed as possible indicators of
attempted attacks on the system.
9.3 Key Management System Survivability
9.3.1 Backup Keys
[OMB11/01] notes that encryption is an important tool for protecting the confidentiality of
disclosure-sensitive information that is entrusted to an agency’s care, but that the encryption of
agency data also presents risks to the availability of information needed for mission
performance. Agencies are reminded of the need to protect the continuity of their information
technology operations and agency services when implementing encryption. The guidance
specifically notes that, without access to the cryptographic keys that are needed to decrypt
information, organizations risk the loss of their access to that information. Consequently, it is
prudent to retain backed up or archived copies of the keys necessary to decrypt stored
enciphered information, including master keys, key-wrapping keys, and the related keying
material necessary to decrypt encrypted information until there is no longer any requirement
for access to the underlying plaintext information (see Tables 7 and 8 in Section 8.2.2.1).
As the tables in Section 8.2.2.1 show, there are other operational keys in addition to those
associated with decryption that organizations may need to backup (e.g., public signatureverification
keys and authorization keys). Backed up or archived copies of keying material
shall be stored in accordance with the provisions of Section 6 in order to protect the
confidentiality of encrypted information and the integrity of source authentication, integrity
authentication, and authorization processes.
9.3.2 Key Recovery
There are several issues associated with key recovery. An extensive discussion is provided in
Appendix B. Key recovery issues to be addressed include:
1. Which keying material, if any, needs to be backed up or archived for later recovery?
2. Where will backed-up or archived keying material be stored?
3. When will archiving be done (e.g., during key activation or at the end of a key’s
cryptoperiod)?
4. Who will be responsible for protecting the backed-up or archived keying material?
5. What procedures need to be in place for storing and recovering the keying material?
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6. Who can request a recovery of the keying material and under what conditions?
7. Who will be notified when a key recovery has taken place and under what conditions?
8. What audit or accounting functions need to be performed to ensure that the keying
material is only provided to authorized entities?
9.3.3 System Redundancy/Contingency Planning
Cryptography is a useful tool for preventing unauthorized access to data and/or resources, but
when the mechanism fails, it can prevent access by valid users to critical information and
processes. Loss or corruption of the only copy of cryptographic keys can deny users access to
information. For example, a locksmith can usually defeat a broken physical mechanism, but
access to information encrypted by a strong algorithm may not be practical without the correct
decryption key. The continuity of an organization’s operations can depend heavily on
contingency planning for key-management systems that includes a redundancy of critical
logical processes and elements, including key management and cryptographic keys.
9.3.3.1 General Principles
Planning for recovery from system failures is an essential management function. Interruptions
of critical infrastructure services should be anticipated, and planning for maintaining the
continuity of operations in support of an organization’s primary mission requirements should
be done. With respect to key management, the following situations are typical of those for
which planning is necessary:
1. Lost key cards or tokens;
2. Forgotten passwords that control access to keys;
3. The failure of key input devices (e.g., readers);
4. The loss or corruption of the memory media on which keys and/or certificates are
stored;
5. The compromise of keys;
6. The corruption of Certificate Revocation Lists (CRLs) or Compromised Key Lists
(CKLs);
7. Hardware failure of key or certificate generation, registration, and/or distribution
systems, subsystems, or components;
8. Power loss requiring re-initialization of key or certificate generation, registration,
and/or distribution systems, subsystems, or components;
9. The corruption of the memory media necessary for key or certificate generation,
registration, and/or distribution systems, subsystems, or components;
10. The corruption or loss of key or certificate distribution records and/or audit logs;
11. The loss or corruption of the association of keying material to the owners/users of the
keying material; and
12. The unavailability of older software or hardware that is needed to access keying
material or process protected information.
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While recovery discussions most commonly focus on the recovery of encrypted data and the
restoration of encrypted communication capabilities, planning should also address 1) the
restoration of access (without creating a temporary loss of access protections) where
cryptography is used in access control mechanisms, 2) the restoration of critical processes
(without creating a temporary loss of privilege restrictions) where cryptography is used in
authorization mechanisms, and 3) the maintenance/restoration of integrity protection in digital
signature and message authentication applications.
Contingency planning should include 1) providing a means and assigning responsibilities for
rapidly recognizing and reporting critical failures; 2) the assignment of responsibilities and the
placement of resources for bypassing or replacing failed systems, subsystems, and
components; and 3) the establishment of detailed bypass and/or recovery procedures.
Contingency planning includes a full range of integrated logistics support functions. Spare
parts (including copies of critical software programs, manuals, and data files) should be
available (acquired or arranged for) and pre-positioned (or delivery-staged). Emergency
maintenance, replacement, and/or bypass instructions should be prepared and disseminated to
both designated individuals and to an accessible and advertised access point. Designated
individuals should be trained in their assigned recovery procedures, and all personnel should
be trained in reporting procedures and workstation-specific recovery procedures.
9.3.3.2 Cryptography and Key Management-specific Recovery Issues
Cryptographic keys are relatively small components or data elements that often control access
to large volumes of information or critical processes. As the Office of Management and Budget
has noted in [OMB11/01], “without access to the cryptographic key(s) needed to decrypt
information, [an] agency risks losing access to its valuable information.” Agencies are
reminded of the need to protect the continuity of their information technology operations and
agency services when implementing encryption. The guidance particularly stresses that
agencies must address information availability and assurance requirements through appropriate
data recovery mechanisms, such as cryptographic key recovery.
A key recovery capability generally involves some redundancy, or multiple copies of keying
material. If one copy of a critical key is lost or corrupted, another copy usually needs to be
available in order to recover data and/or restore capabilities. At the same time, the more copies
of a key that exist and are distributed to different locations, the more susceptible the key
usually is to compromise through penetration of the storage location or subversion of the
custodian (e.g., user, service agent, key production/distribution facility). In this sense, key
confidentiality requirements conflict with continuity of operations requirements. Special care
needs to be taken to safeguard all copies of keying material, especially symmetric keys and
private (asymmetric) keys. More detail regarding contingency plans and planning requirements
is provided in Part 2 of this Recommendation for Key Management [SP800-57, Part 2].
9.3.4 Compromise Recovery
When keying material that is used to protect sensitive information or critical processes is
disclosed to unauthorized entities, all of the information and/or processes protected by that
keying material becomes immediately subject to disclosure, modification, subversion, and/or
denial of service. All compromised keys shall be revoked; all affected keys shall be replaced,
if needed; and, where sensitive or critical information or processes are affected, an immediate
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damage assessment should be conducted. Measures necessary to mitigate the consequences of
suspected unauthorized access to protected data or processes and to reduce the probability or
frequency of future compromises should be undertaken.
Where symmetric keys or private (asymmetric) keys are used to protect only a single user’s
local information or communications between a single pair of users, the compromise recovery
process can be relatively simple and inexpensive. Damage assessment and mitigation measures
are often local matters.
On the other hand, where a key is shared by or affects a large number of users, damage can be
widespread, and recovery is both complex and expensive. Some examples of keys, the
compromise of which might be particularly difficult or expensive to recover from, include the
following:
1. A CA’s private signature key, especially if it is used to sign a root certificate in a
public-key infrastructure;
2. A symmetric key-wrapping key shared by a large number of users;
3. A private asymmetric key-transport key shared by a large number of users;
4. A master key used in the derivation of keys by a large number of users;
5. A symmetric data-encryption key used to encrypt data in a large distributed database;
6. A symmetric key shared by a large number of communications network participants;
and
7. A key used to protect a large number of stored keys.
In all of these cases, a large number of key owners or relying parties (e.g., all parties
authorized to use the secret key of a symmetric-key algorithm or the public key of an
asymmetric-key algorithm) would need to be immediately notified of the compromise. The
inclusion of the key identifier on a Compromised Key List (CKL) or the certificate serial
number on a Certificate Revocation List (CRL) to be published at a later date might not be
sufficient. This means that a list of (the most-likely) affected entities might need to be
maintained, and a means for communicating news of the compromise would be required.
Particularly in the case of the compromise of a symmetric key, news of the compromise and
the replacement of keys should be sent only to the affected entities so as not to encourage
others to exploit the situation.
In all of these cases, a secure path for replacing the compromised keys is required. In order to
permit rapid restoration of service, an automated (e.g., over-the-air or network-based)
replacement path is preferred (see Section 8.2.3). In some cases, however, there may be no
practical alternative to manual distribution (e.g., the compromise of a root CA’s private key). A
contingency distribution of alternate keys may help restore service rapidly in some
circumstances (e.g., the compromise of a widely held symmetric key), but the possibility of a
simultaneous compromise of operational and contingency keys would need to be considered.
Damage assessment can be extraordinarily complex, particularly in cases such as the
compromise and replacement of CA private keys, widely used transport keys, and keys used by
many users of large distributed databases.
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10 Key Management Specifications for Cryptographic Devices or
Applications
Key management is often an afterthought in the cryptographic development process. As a
result, cryptographic subsystems often fail to support the key-management functionality and
protocols that are necessary to provide adequate security with the minimum necessary
reduction in operational efficiency. All cryptographic development activities should involve
key-management planning and specification (see [SP800-57, Part 2]) by those managers
responsible for the secure implementation of cryptography into an information system. Keymanagement
planning should begin during the initial conceptual/development stages of the
cryptographic development lifecycle, or during the initial discussion stages for the application
of existing cryptographic components into information systems and networks. The
specifications that result from the planning activities shall be consistent with NIST keymanagement
guidance (see [SP800-130] and [SP800152]).
For cryptographic development efforts, a key specification and acquisition planning process
should begin as soon as the candidate algorithm(s) and, if appropriate, keying material media
and format have been identified. Key-management considerations may affect algorithm choice,
due to operational efficiency considerations for anticipated applications. For the application of
existing cryptographic mechanisms for which no key-management specification exists, the
planning and specification processes should begin during device and source selection, and
continue through acquisition and installation.
The types of key-management components that are required for a specific cryptographic device
and/or for suites of devices used by organizations should be standardized to the maximum
possible extent, and new cryptographic device-development efforts shall comply with NIST
key-management recommendations. Accordingly, NIST criteria for the security, accuracy, and
utility of key-management components in electronic and physical forms shall be met. Where
the criteria for security, accuracy, and utility can be satisfied with standard key-management
components (e.g., PKI), the use of those compliant components is encouraged. A developer
may choose to employ non-compliant key management as a result of security, accuracy, utility,
or cost considerations. However, such developments should conform as closely as possible to
established key-management recommendations.
10.1 Key Management Specification Description/Purpose
The Key Management Specification is the document that describes the key-management
components that may be required to operate a cryptographic device throughout its lifetime.
Where applicable, the Key Management Specification also describes key-management
components that are provided by a cryptographic device. The Key Management Specification
documents the capabilities that the cryptographic application requires from key sources (e.g.,
the Key Management Infrastructure (KMI) described in Part 2 of this Recommendation for Key
Management [SP800-57, Part 2]).
10.2 Content of the Key Management Specification
The level of detail required for each section of the Key Management Specification can be
tailored, depending upon the complexity of the device or application for which the Key
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Management Specification is being written. The Key Management Specification should
contain a title page that includes the device identifier, and the developer’s or integrator’s
identifier. A revision page, a list of reference documents, a table of contents, and a definition of
abbreviations and acronyms page should also be included. The terminology used in a Key
Management Specification shall be in accordance with the terms defined in appropriate NIST
standards and guidelines. Unless the information is tightly controlled, the Key Management
Specification should not contain proprietary or sensitive information. [Note: If the
cryptographic application is supported by a PKI, a statement to that effect should be included
in the appropriate Key Management Specification sections below.]
10.2.1 Cryptographic Application
A Cryptographic Application section provides a basis for the development of the rest of the
Key Management Specification. The Cryptographic Application section provides a brief
description of the cryptographic application or proposed employment of the cryptographic
device. This includes the purpose or use of the cryptographic device (or application of a
cryptographic device), and whether it is a new cryptographic device, a modification of an
existing cryptographic device, or an existing cryptographic device for which a Key
Management Specification does not exist. A brief description of the security services
(confidentiality, integrity authentication, source authentication, non-repudiation support, access
control, and availability) that the cryptographic device/application provides should be
included. Information concerning long-term and potential interim key-management support
(key-management components) for the cryptographic application should be provided.
10.2.2 Communications Environment
A Communications Environment section provides a brief description of the communications
environment in which the cryptographic device is designed to operate. Some examples of
communications environments include:
1. Data networks (e.g., intranet, Internet, VPN);
2. Wired communications (e.g., landline, dedicated or shared switching resources); and
3. Wireless communications (e.g., cell phones).
The environment may also include any anticipated access controls on communications
resources, data sensitivity, privacy issues, etc.
10.2.3 Key Management Component Requirements
A Key Management Component Requirements section describes the types and logical structure
of the keying material required for the operation of the cryptographic device. Cryptographic
applications using public-key certificates (e.g., X.509 certificates) should describe the types of
certificates supported. The following information should be included:
1. The different keying material classes or types required, supported, and/or generated
(e.g., for PKI: CA, signature, key establishment, and authentication);
2. The key management algorithm(s) (the applicable approved algorithms);
3. The keying material format(s) (reference any existing key specification, if known);
4. The set of acceptable PKI policies (as applicable); and
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5. The tokens to be used.
The description of the key-management component format may reference a key specification
for an existing cryptographic device. If the format of the key-management components is not
already specified, then the format and medium should be specified in the Key Management
Specification.
10.2.4 Key Management Component Generation
The Key Management Specification should include a description of the requirements for the
generation of key-management components by the cryptographic device for which the Key
Management Specification is written. If the cryptographic device does not provide generation
capabilities, the key-management components that will be required from external sources
should be identified.
10.2.5 Key Management Component Distribution
When a device supports the automated distribution of keying material, the Key Management
Specification should include a description of the distribution method(s) (where employed)
used for keying material supported by the device. The distribution plan may describe the
circumstances under which the key-management components are encrypted or in plaintext,
their physical form (electronic, paper, etc.), and how they are identified during the distribution
process. In the case of a dependence on manual distribution, the dependence and any handling
assumptions regarding keying material should be stated.
10.2.6 Keying Material Storage
The Key Management Specification should address how the cryptographic device or
application for which the Key Management Specification is being written stores information,
and how the keying material is identified during its storage life (e.g., using a Distinguished
Name). The storage capacity capabilities for information should be included.
10.2.7 Access Control
The Key Management Specification should address how access to the cryptographic device
components and functions is to be authorized, controlled, and validated to request, generate,
handle, distribute, store, and/or use keying material. Any use of passwords and personal
identification numbers (PINs) should be included. For PKI cryptographic applications, role
and identity-based privileging, and the use of any tokens should be described.
10.2.8 Accounting
The Key Management Specification should describe any device or application support for the
accounting of the keying material. Any support for or outputs to logs used to support the
tracking of key-management component generation, distribution, storage, use and/or
destruction should be detailed. The use of appropriate privileging to support the control of
keying material that is used by the cryptographic application should also be described, in
addition to the directory capabilities used to support PKI cryptographic applications, if
applicable. The Key Management Specification shall identify where human and automated
tracking actions are required and where multi-party control is required, if applicable. Section
9.1 of this Recommendation provides accountability guidance.
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10.2.9 Compromise Management and Recovery
The Key Management Specification should address any support for the restoration of protected
communications in the event of the compromise of keying material used by the cryptographic
device/application. The recovery-process description should include the methods for rekeying.
When used, the implementation of Certificate Revocation Lists (CRLs) and
Compromised Key Lists (CKLs) should be detailed. For system specifications, a description of
how certificates will be reissued and renewed within the cryptographic application should also
be included. General compromise-recovery guidance is provided in Section 9.3.4 of this
Recommendation.
10.2.10 Key Recovery
The Key Management Specification should include a description of product support or system
mechanisms for effecting key recovery. Key recovery addresses how unavailable encryption
keys can be recovered. System developers should include a discussion of the generation,
storage, and access to long-term storage keys in the key-recovery-process description. The
process of transitioning from the current to future long-term storage keys should also be
described. General contingency planning guidance is provided in Section 9.3.3 of this
Recommendation. Key recovery is treated in detail in Appendix B.
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APPENDIX A: Cryptographic and Non-cryptographic Integrity and
Source Authentication Mechanisms
Integrity and source authentication services are particularly important in protocols that include
key management. When integrity or source-authentication services are discussed in this
Recommendation, they are afforded by “strong” cryptographic integrity or sourceauthentication
mechanisms. Secure communications and key management are typically
provided using a communication protocol that offers certain services, such as integrity
protection or a “reliable” transport service46
. However, the integrity protection or reliable
transport services of communication protocols are not necessarily adequate for cryptographic
applications, particularly for key management, and there might be confusion about the meaning
of terms such as “integrity.”
All communication channels have some noise (i.e., unintentional errors inserted by the
transmission media), and other factors, such as network congestion, can cause network
packets47
to be lost. Therefore, integrity protection and reliable transport services for
communication protocols are designed to function over a channel with certain worst-case noise
characteristics. Transmission bit errors are typically detected using 1) a non-cryptographic
checksum48
to detect transmission errors in a packet, and 2) a packet counter that is used to
detect lost packets. A receiving entity that detects damaged packets (i.e., packets that contain
bit errors) or lost packets may request the sender to retransmit them. The non-cryptographic
checksums are generally effective at detecting transmission noise. For example, the common
CRC-32 checksum algorithm used in local-area network applications detects all error bursts
with a span of less than 32 bits, and detects longer random bursts with a 2-32
failure probability.
However, the non-cryptographic CRC-32 checksum does not detect the swapping of 32-bit
message words, and specific errors in particular message bits cause predictable changes in the
CRC-32 checksum. The sophisticated attacker can take advantage of this to create altered
messages that pass the CRC-32 integrity checks, even, in some cases, when the message is
encrypted.
Forward error-correcting codes are a subset of non-cryptographic checksums that can be used
to correct a limited number of errors without retransmission. These codes may be used as
checksums, depending on the application and noise properties of the channel.
Cryptographic integrity-authentication mechanisms (e.g., MACs or digital signatures), on the
other hand, protect against an active, intelligent attacker who might attempt to disguise his
attack as noise. Typically, the bits altered by the attacker are not random; they are targeted at
system properties and vulnerabilities. Cryptographic integrity-authentication mechanisms are
46
A means of transmitting information within a network using protocols that provide assurances that the
information is received correctly.
47
A formatted unit of data used to send messages across a network. Messages may be divided into multiple
packets for transmission efficiency.
48
Checksum: an algorithm that uses the bits in the transmission to create a checksum value. The checksum value
is normally sent in the transmission. The receiver re-computes the checksum value using the bits in the received
transmission, and compares the received checksum value with the computed value to determine whether or not the
transmission was correctly received. A non-cryptographic checksum algorithm uses a well-known algorithm
without secret information (i.e., a cryptographic key).
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effective in detecting random noise events, but they also detect the more systematic deliberate
attacks. Cryptographic hash functions, such as SHA-256, are designed to make every bit of the
hash value a complex, nonlinear function of every bit of the message text, and to make it
impractical to find two messages that hash to the same value. On average, it is necessary to
perform 2128
SHA-256 hash operations to find two messages that hash to the same value, and it
is much harder to find another message whose SHA-256 hash is the same value as the hash of
any given message. Cryptographic message authentication code (MAC) algorithms employ
hash functions or symmetric encryption algorithms and keys to authenticate the source of a
message and to protect the integrity of a message (i.e., to detect errors). Digital signatures use
public-key algorithms and hash functions to provide both integrity and source-authentication
services. Compared to non-cryptographic integrity or source-authentication mechanisms, these
cryptographic services are usually computationally more expensive; this seems to be
unavoidable, since cryptographic protections must also resist deliberate attacks by
knowledgeable adversaries with substantial resources.
Cryptographic and non-cryptographic integrity-authentication mechanisms may be used
together. For example, consider the TLS protocol (see [SP800-52]). In TLS, a client and a
server can authenticate the identity of each other, establish a shared "master key" and transfer
encrypted payload data. Every step in the entire TLS protocol run is protected by cryptographic
integrity and source-authentication mechanisms, and the payload is usually encrypted. Like
most cryptographic protocols, TLS will, with a given probability, detect any attack or noise
event that alters any part of the protocol run. However, TLS has no error-recovery protocol. If
an error is detected, the protocol run is simply terminated. Starting a new TLS protocol run is
quite expensive. Therefore, TLS requires a “reliable” transport service, typically the Internet
Transport Control Protocol (TCP), to handle and recover from ordinary network-transmission
errors. TLS will detect errors caused by an attack or noise event, but has no mechanism to
recover from them. TCP will generally detect such errors on a packet-by-packet basis and
recover from them by retransmission of individual packets before delivering the data to TLS.
Both TLS and TCP have integrity-authentication mechanisms, but a sophisticated attacker
could easily fool the weaker non-cryptographic checksums of TCP. However, because of the
cryptographic integrity-authentication mechanism provided in TLS, the attack is thwarted.
There are some interactions between cryptographic and non-cryptographic integrity or errorcorrection
mechanisms that users and protocol designers must take into account. For example,
many encryption modes expand ciphertext errors: a single bit error in the ciphertext can change
an entire block or more of the resulting plaintext. If forward error correction is applied before
encryption, and errors are inserted in the ciphertext during transmission, the error expansion
during the decryption might “overwhelm” the error-correction mechanism, making the errors
uncorrectable. Therefore, it is preferable to apply the forward error-correction mechanism after
the encryption process. This will allow the correction of errors by the receiving entity’s system
before the ciphertext is decrypted, resulting in “correct” plaintext.
Interactions between cryptographic and non-cryptographic mechanisms can also result in
security vulnerabilities. One classic way this occurs is with protocols that use stream ciphers49
49
Stream ciphers encrypt and decrypt one element (e.g., bit or byte) at a time. There are no approved algorithms
specifically designated as stream ciphers. However, some of the cryptographic modes defined in [SP 800-38]
can be used with a symmetric block cipher algorithm, such as AES, to perform the function of a stream cipher.
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with non-cryptographic checksums (e.g. CRC-32) that are computed over the plaintext data
and that acknowledge good packets. An attacker can copy the encrypted packet, selectively
modify individual ciphertext bits, selectively change bits in the CRC, and then send the packet.
Using the protocol’s acknowledgement mechanism, the attacker can determine when the CRC
is correct, and therefore, determine certain bits of the underlying plaintext. At least one widely
used wireless-encryption protocol has been broken with such an attack.
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APPENDIX B: Key Recovery
Federal agencies have a responsibility to protect the information contained in, processed by
and transmitted between their information technology systems. Cryptographic techniques are
often used as part of this process. These techniques are used to provide confidentiality,
integrity authentication, source authentication, non-repudiation support or access control.
Policies shall be established to address the protection and continued accessibility of
cryptographically protected information, and procedures shall be in place to ensure that the
information remains viable during its lifetime. When cryptographic keying material is used to
protect the information, this same keying material may need to be available to remove (e.g.,
decrypt) or verify (e.g., verify the MAC) those protections.
In many cases, the keying material used for cryptographic processes might not be readily
available. This might be the case for several reasons, including:
1. The cryptoperiod of the key has expired, and the keying material is no longer in
operational storage;
2. The keying material has been corrupted (e.g., the system has crashed or a virus has
modified the saved keying material in operational storage); or
3. The owner of the keying material is not available, and the owner’s organization needs
to obtain the plaintext information.
In order to have this keying material available when required, the keying material needs to be
saved somewhere or to be constructible (e.g., derivable) from other available keying material.
The process of re-acquiring the keying material is called key recovery. Key recovery is often
used as one method of information recovery when the plaintext information needs to be
recovered from encrypted information. However, keying material or other related information
may need to be recovered for other reasons, such as the corruption of keying material in
normal operational storage (see Section 8.2.1), e.g., the verification of MACs for archived
documents. Key recovery may also be appropriate for situations in which it is easier or faster to
recover the keying material than it is to generate and distribute new keying material.
However, there are applications that may not need to save the keying material for an extended
time because of other procedures to recover an operational capability when the keying material
or the information protected by the keying material becomes inaccessible. Applications of this
type could include telecommunications where the transmitted information could be resent, or
applications that could quickly derive, or acquire and distribute new keying material.
It is the responsibility of an organization to determine whether or not the recovery of keying
material is required for their application. The decision as to whether key recovery is required
should be made on a case-by-case basis, and this decision should be reflected in the Key
Management Policy and the Key Management Practices Statement (see [SP800-57, Part 2]). If
the decision is made to provide key recovery, the appropriate method of key recovery should
be selected, designed and implemented, based on the type of keying material to be recovered;
an appropriate entity needs to be selected to maintain the backup or archive database and
manage the key-recovery process.
If the decision is made to provide key recovery for a key, all information associated with that
key shall also be recoverable (see Table 5 in Section 6).
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B.1 Recovery from Stored Keying Material
The primary purpose of the back up or archiving of keying material is to be able to recover that
material when it is not otherwise available. For example, encrypted information cannot be
transformed back into plaintext information if the decryption key is lost or modified; the
integrity of data cannot be authenticated if the key used to verify the integrity of that data is not
available. The key-recovery process retrieves the keying material from backup or archive
storage, and places it either in a device or module, or in other immediately accessible storage
(see Section 8.3.1).
B.2 Recovery by Reconstruction of Keying Material
Some keying material may be recovered by reconstructing or re-deriving the keying material
from other available keying material − the “base” keying material (e.g., a master key for a keyderivation
method). The base keying material shall be available in normal operational storage
(see Section 8.2.1), backup storage (see Section 8.2.2.1) or archive storage (see Section 8.3.1).
B.3 Conditions Under Which Keying Material Needs to be Recoverable
The decision as to whether to back up or archive keying material for possible key recovery
should be made on a case-by-case basis. The decision should be based on the list provided in
Section 8.2.2.2.
When the key-recovery operation is requested by the key’s owner, the following actions shall
be taken:
1. If a lost key may have been compromised, then the key shall be replaced as soon as
possible after recovery in order to limit the exposure of the recovered key and the data
it protects (see Section 8.2.3.1). This requires reapplying the protection on the protected
data using the new key. For example, suppose that the key that was used to encrypt data
(KeyA) has been misplaced in a manner in which it could have been compromised. As
soon as possible after KeyA is recovered, KeyA shall be used to decrypt the data, and the
data shall be re-encrypted under a new key (KeyB). KeyB shall have no relationship to
KeyA (e.g., KeyB shall not be an update of KeyA).
2. If the key becomes inaccessible or has been modified, but compromise is not suspected,
then the key may be recovered and used normally. No further action is required (e.g.,
re-encrypting the data). For example, if the key becomes inaccessible because the
system containing the key crashes, or the key is inadvertently overwritten, and a
compromise is not suspected, then the key may simply be restored.
The following subsections provide discussions to assist an organization in determining whether
or not key recovery is needed. Although the following discussions address only the
recoverability of keys, any related information (e.g., the metadata associated with the key)
shall also be recoverable.
B.3.1 Signature Key Pairs
The private key of a signature key pair (the private signature key) is used by the owner of the
key pair to apply digital signatures to information. The corresponding public key (the public
signature-verification key) is used by relying entities to verify the digital signature.
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B.3.1.1 Private Signature Keys
Private signature keys shall not be archived (see Table 9 in Section 8.3.1). Key backup is not
usually desirable for the private key of a signing key pair, since support for the nonrepudiability
of the signature comes into question. However, exceptions may exist. For
example, replacing the private signature key and having its corresponding public signatureverification
key distributed (in accordance with Section 8.1.5.1) in a timely manner may not be
possible under some circumstances, so recovering the private signature key from backup
storage may be justified. This may be the case, for example, for the private signature key of a
CA.
If backup is considered for the private signature key, an assessment should be made as to its
importance and the time needed to recover the key, as opposed to the time needed to generate a
new key pair, and certify and distribute a new public signature-verification key. If a private
signature key is backed up, the private signature key shall be recovered using a highly secure
method. Depending on circumstances, the key should be recovered for immediate use only,
and then shall be replaced as soon after the recovery process as possible.
Instead of backing up the private signature key, a second private signature key and
corresponding public key could be generated, and the public key distributed in accordance with
Section 8.1.5.1 for use if the primary private signature key becomes unavailable.
B.3.1.2 Public Signature-verification Keys
It is appropriate to backup or archive a public signature-verification key for as long as required
in order to verify the information signed by the corresponding private signature key. In the case
of a public key that has been certified (e.g., by a Certification Authority), saving the public-key
certificate would be an appropriate form of storing the public key; backup or archive storage
may be provided by the infrastructure (e.g., by a certificate repository). The public key should
be stored in backup storage until the end of the private key’s cryptoperiod, and should be
stored in archive storage as long as required for the verification of signed data.
B.3.2 Symmetric Authentication Keys
A symmetric authentication key is used to provide assurance of the integrity and source of
information. A symmetric authentication key can be used:
1. By an originator to create a message authentication code (MAC) that can be verified at
a later time to determine the integrity (and possibly the source) of the authenticated
information; the authenticated information and its MAC could then be stored for later
retrieval or transmitted to another entity,
2. By an entity that retrieves the authenticated information and the MAC from storage to
determine the integrity of the stored information (Note: This is not a communication
application),
3. Immediately upon receipt by a receiving entity to determine the integrity of transmitted
information and the source of that information (the received MAC and the associated
authenticated information may or may not be subsequently stored), or
4. By a receiving and retrieving entity to determine the integrity and source of information
that has been received and subsequently stored using the same MAC (and the same
authentication key); checking the MAC may not be performed prior to storage.
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For each of the above cases, a decision to provide a key recovery capability should be made,
based on the following considerations.
In case 1, the symmetric authentication key need not be backed up or archived if the
originator can establish a new authentication key prior to computing the MAC, making
the key available to any entity that would need to subsequently verify the information
that is authenticated using this new key. If a new authentication key cannot be obtained
in a timely manner, then the authentication key should be backed up or archived.
In case 2, the symmetric authentication key should be backed up or archived for as
long as the integrity and source of the information needs to be determined.
In case 3, the symmetric authentication key need not be backed up or archived if the
authentication key can be resent to the recipient. In this case, establishing and
distributing a new symmetric authentication key, rather than reusing the “lost” key, is
also acceptable; a new MAC would need to be computed on the information using the
new authentication key. Otherwise, the symmetric authentication key should be backed
up. Archiving the authentication key is not appropriate if the MAC and the
authenticated information are not subsequently stored, since the use of the key for both
applying and checking the MAC would be discontinued at the end of the key's
cryptoperiod. If the MAC and the authenticated information are subsequently stored,
then the symmetric authentication key should be backed up or archived for as long as
the integrity and source of the information needs to be determined.
In case 4, the symmetric authentication key should be backed up or archived for as
long as the integrity and source of the information needs to be determined.
The symmetric authentication key may be stored in backup storage for the cryptoperiod of the
key, and in archive storage until no longer required. If the authentication key is recovered by
reconstruction, the “base” key (e.g., the master key for a key-derivation method) may be stored
in normal operational storage or backup storage for the cryptoperiod of the base key, and in
archive storage until no longer required.
B.3.3 Authentication Key Pairs
A public authentication key is used by a receiving entity to obtain assurance of the identity of
the originating entity. The corresponding private authentication key is used by the originating
entity to provide this assurance to a receiving entity by computing a digital signature on the
information. This key pair may not provide support for non-repudiation.
B.3.3.1 Public Authentication Keys
It is appropriate to store a public authentication key in either backup or archive storage for as
long as required to verify the identity of the entity that is participating in an authenticated
communication session.
In the case of a public key that has been certified (e.g., by a Certification Authority), saving the
public-key certificate would be an appropriate form of storing the public key; backup or
archive storage may be provided by the infrastructure (e.g., by a certificate repository). The
public key may be stored in backup storage until the end of the private key’s cryptoperiod, and
may be stored in archive storage as long as required.
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B.3.3.2 Private Authentication Keys
The private key is used to establish the identity of an entity who is participating in an
authenticated communication session. The private authentication key need not be backed up if
a new key pair can be generated and distributed in accordance with Section 8.1.5.1 in a timely
manner. However, if a new key pair cannot be generated quickly, the private key should be
stored in backup storage during the cryptoperiod of the private key. The private key shall not
be stored in archive storage.
B.3.4 Symmetric Data-Encryption Keys
A symmetric data-encryption key is used to protect the confidentiality of stored or transmitted
information or both. The same key is used initially to encrypt the plaintext information to be
protected, and later to decrypt the encrypted information (i.e., the ciphertext), thus obtaining
the original plaintext.
The key needs to be available for as long as any information that is encrypted using that key
may need to be decrypted. Therefore, the key should be backed up or archived during this
period.
In order to allow key recovery, the symmetric data-encryption key should be stored in backup
storage during the cryptoperiod of the key, and should be stored in archive storage, if required.
In many cases, the key is protected and stored with the encrypted data. When archived, the key
is wrapped (i.e., encrypted) by an archive-encryption key or by a symmetric key-wrapping key
that is wrapped by a protected archive-encryption key.
A symmetric-data encryption key that is used only for transmission is used by an originating
entity to encrypt information, and by the receiving entity to decrypt the information
immediately upon receipt. If the data-encryption key is lost or corrupted, and a new dataencryption
key can be easily obtained by the originating and receiving entities, then the key
need not be backed up. However, if the key cannot be easily replaced by a new key, then the
key should be backed up if the information to be exchanged is of sufficient importance. The
data-encryption key may not need to be archived when used for transmission only.
B.3.5 Symmetric Key-Wrapping Keys
A symmetric key-wrapping key is used to wrap (i.e., encrypt and integrity protect) keying
material that is to be protected, and may be used to protect multiple sets of keying material.
The protected keying material is then transmitted or stored or both.
If a symmetric key-wrapping key is used only to transmit keying material, and the keywrapping
key becomes unavailable (e.g., is lost or corrupted), it may be possible to either
resend the key-wrapping key, or to establish a new key-wrapping key and use it to resend the
keying material. If this is possible within a reasonable timeframe, backup of the key-wrapping
key is not necessary. If the key-wrapping key cannot be resent, or a new key-wrapping key
cannot be readily obtained, backup of the key-wrapping key should be considered. The archive
of a key-wrapping key that is only used to transmit keying material may not be necessary.
If a symmetric key-wrapping key is used to protect keying material in storage, then the keywrapping
key should be backed up or archived for as long as the protected keying material
may need to be accessed.
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B.3.6 Random Number Generation Keys
A key used for random bit generation shall not be backed up or archived. If this key is lost or
modified, it shall be replaced with a new key.
B.3.7 Symmetric Master Keys
A symmetric master key is normally used to derive one or more other keys. It shall not be used
for any other purpose.
The determination as to whether or not a symmetric master key needs to be backed up or
archived depends on a number of factors:
1. How easy is it to establish a new symmetric master key? If the master key is distributed
manually (e.g., in smart cards or in hard copy by receipted mail), the master key should
be backed up or archived. If a new master key can be easily and quickly established
using automated key-establishment protocols, then the backup or archiving of the
master key may not be necessary or desirable, depending on the application.
2. Are the derived keys recoverable without the use of the symmetric master key? If the
derived keys do not need to be backed up or archived (e.g., because of their use) or
recovery of the derived keys does not depend on reconstruction from the master key
(e.g., the derived keys are stored in an encrypted form), then the backup or archiving of
the master key may not be desirable. If the derived keys need to be backed up or
archived, and the method of key recovery requires a reconstruction of the derived key
from the master key, then the master key should be backed up or archived.
B.3.8 Key-Transport Key Pairs
A key-transport key pair may be used to transport keying material from an originating entity to
a receiving entity during communications. The transported keying material could be stored in
its encrypted form for decryption at a later time. The originating entity in a communication
uses the public key to encrypt the keying material; the receiving entity (or the entity retrieving
the stored keying material) uses the private key to decrypt the encrypted keying material.
B.3.8.1 Private Key-Transport Keys
If a key-transport key pair is used during communications without storing the encrypted keying
material, then the private key-transport key does not need to be backed up if a replacement key
pair can be generated and distributed in a timely fashion. Alternatively, one or more additional
key pairs could be made available (i.e., already generated and distributed). Otherwise, the
private key should be backed up. The private key-transport key may be archived.
If the transported keying material is stored in its encrypted form, then the private key-transport
key should be backed up or archived for as long as the protected keying material may need to
be accessed.
B.3.8.2 Public Key Transport Keys
Backup or archiving of the public key may be done, but may not be necessary.
If the sending entity (the originating entity in a communications) loses the public key-transport
key or determines that the key has been corrupted, the key can be reacquired from the key pair
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owner or by obtaining the public-key certificate containing the public key (if the public key
was certified).
If the entity that applies the cryptographic protection to keying material that is to be stored
determines that the public key-transport key has been lost or corrupted, the entity may recover
in one of the following ways:
1. If the public key has been certified and is stored elsewhere within the infrastructure,
then the certificate can be requested;
2. If some other entity knows the public key (e.g., the owner of the key pair), the key can
be requested from this other entity;
3. If the private key is known, then the public key can be recomputed; or
4. A new key pair can be generated.
B.3.9 Symmetric Key Agreement Keys
Symmetric key-agreement keys are used to establish keying material (e.g., symmetric keywrapping
keys, symmetric data-encryption keys, or symmetric authentication keys). Each keyagreement
key is shared between two or more entities. If these keys are distributed manually
(e.g., in a key-loading device or by receipted mail), then the symmetric key-agreement key
should be backed up. If an automated means is available for quickly establishing new keys
(e.g., a key-transport mechanism can be used to establish a new symmetric key-agreement
key), then a symmetric key-agreement key need not be backed up.
Symmetric key-agreement keys may be archived.
B.3.10 Static Key-Agreement Key Pairs
Static key-agreement key pairs are used to establish shared secrets between entities (see
[SP800-56A] and [SP800-56B]), sometimes in conjunction with ephemeral key pairs (see
[SP800-56A]). Each entity uses its private key-agreement key(s), the other entity's public keyagreement
key(s) and possibly its own public key-agreement key(s) to determine the shared
secret. The shared secret is subsequently used to derive shared keying material. Note that in
some key-agreement schemes, one or more of the entities may not use a static key-agreement
pair (see [SP800-56A] and [SP800-56B]).
B.3.10.1 Private Static Key-Agreement Keys
If the private static key-agreement key cannot be replaced in a timely manner, or if it needs to
be retained in order to recover encrypted stored data, then the private key should be backed up
in order to continue operations. The private key may be archived.
B.3.10.2 Public Static Key Agreement Keys
If an entity determines that the public static key-agreement key is lost or corrupted, the entity
may recover in one of the following ways:
1. If the public key has been certified and is stored elsewhere within the infrastructure,
then the certificate can be requested;
2. If some other entity knows the public key (e.g., the other entity is the owner of the key
pair), the key can be requested from this other entity;
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3. If the private key is known, then the public key can be recomputed; or
4. If the entity is the owner of the key pair, a new key pair can be generated and
distributed.
If none of these alternatives are possible, then the public static key-agreement key should be
backed up. The public key may be archived.
B.3.11 Ephemeral Key Pairs
Ephemeral key-agreement keys are generated and distributed during a single key-agreement
transaction (e.g., at the beginning of a communication session) and are not reused. These key
pairs are used to establish a shared secret (often in combination with static key pairs); the
shared secret is subsequently used to derive shared keying material. Not all key-agreement
schemes use ephemeral key pairs, and when used, not all entities have an ephemeral key pair
(see [SP800-56A]).
B.3.11.1 Private Ephemeral Keys
Private ephemeral keys shall not50
be backed up or archived. If the private ephemeral key is
lost or corrupted, a new key pair shall be generated, and the new public ephemeral key shall be
provided to the other participating entity in the key-agreement process.
B.3.11.2 Public Ephemeral Keys
Public ephemeral keys may be backed up or archived. This may allow the reconstruction of the
established keying material, as long as the private ephemeral keys are not required in the keyagreement
computation.
B.3.12 Symmetric Authorization Keys
Symmetric authorization keys are used to provide privileges to an entity (e.g., access to certain
information or authorization to perform certain functions). The loss of these keys will deny the
privileges (e.g., prohibit access and disallow the performance of these functions). If the
authorization key is lost or corrupted and can be replaced in a timely fashion, then the
authorization key need not be backed up. A symmetric authorization key shall not be archived.
B.3.13 Authorization Key Pairs
Authorization key pairs are used to determine the privileges that an entity may assume. The
private key is used to establish the "right" to the privilege; the public key is used to determine
that the entity actually has the right to the privilege.
B.3.13.1 Private Authorization Keys
The loss of the private authorization key will deny privileges (e.g., prohibit access and disallow
the performance of certain functions requiring authorization). If the private key is lost or
corrupted and can be replaced in a timely fashion, then the private key need not be backed up.
Otherwise, the private key should be backed up. The private key shall not be archived.
50
SP 800-56A states that the private ephemeral keys shall be destroyed immediately after use. This implies that
the private ephemeral keys shall not be backed up or archived.
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B.3.13.2 Public Authorization Keys
If the authorization key pair can be replaced in a timely fashion (i.e., by a regeneration of the
key pair and secure distribution of the private key to the entity seeking authorization), then the
public authorization key need not be backed up. Otherwise, the public key should be backed
up. There is no restriction about archiving the public key.
B.3.14 Other Cryptographically Related Material
Like keys, other cryptographically related material may need to be backed up or archived,
depending on its use.
B.3.14.1 Domain Parameters
Domain parameters are used in conjunction with some public key algorithms to generate key
pairs. They are also used with key pairs to create and verify digital signatures or to establish
keying material. The same set of domain parameters is often, but not always, used by a large
number of entities.
When an entity (entity A) generates new domain parameters, these domain parameters are used
in subsequent digital signature generation or key-establishment processes. The domain
parameters need to be provided to other entities that need to verify the digital signatures or
with whom keys will be established. If the entity (entity A) determines that its copies of the
domain parameters have been lost or corrupted, and if the new domain parameters cannot be
securely distributed in a timely fashion, then the domain parameters should be backed up or
archived.
When the same set of domain parameters are used by multiple entities, the domain parameters
should be backed up or archived until no longer required unless the domain parameters can be
otherwise obtained (e.g., from a trusted source).
B.3.14.2 Initialization Vectors (IVs)
IVs are used by several modes of operation during the encryption or authentication of
information using block cipher algorithms. IVs are often stored with the data that they protect.
If not stored with the data, IVs should be backed up or archived as long as the information
protected using those IVs needs to be processed (e.g., decrypted or authenticated).
B.3.14.3 Shared Secrets
Shared secrets are generated by each entity participating in a key-agreement process. The
shared secret is then used to derive the shared keying material to be used in subsequent
cryptographic operations. Shared secrets may be generated during interactive communications
(e.g., where both entities are online) or during non-interactive communications (e.g., in store
and forward applications).
A shared secret shall not be backed up or archived.
B.3.14.4 RBG Seeds
RBG seeds are used for the generation of random bits and need to remain secret. These seeds
shall not be shared with other entities. RBG seeds shall not be backed up or archived.
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B.3.14.5 Other Public and Secret Information
Public and secret information is often used during key establishment. The information may
need to be available to determine the keys that are needed to process cryptographically
protected information (e.g., to decrypt or authenticate); therefore, the information should be
backed up or archived until no longer needed to process the protected information.
B.3.14.6 Intermediate Results
The intermediate results of a cryptographic operation shall not be backed up or archived.
B.3.14.7 Key Control Information
Key control information is used, for example, to determine the keys and other information to
be used to process cryptographically protected information (e.g., decrypt or authenticate), to
identify the purpose of a key, or to identify the entities that share the key (see Section 6.2.3).
This information is contained in the key’s metadata (see Section 6.2.3.1).
Key control information should be backed up or archived for as long as the associated key
needs to be available.
B.3.14.8 Random Numbers
Random numbers are generated by random number generators. The backup or archiving of a
random number depends on how it is used.
B.3.14.9 Passwords
A password is used to acquire access to privileges by an entity, to derive keys or to detect the
re-use of passwords.
If the password is only used to acquire access to privileges, and can be replaced in a timely
fashion, then the password need not be backed up. In this case, a password shall not be
archived.
If the password is used to derive cryptographic keys or to prevent the re-use of passwords, the
password should be backed up and archived.
B.3.14.10 Audit Information
Audit information containing key-management events shall be backed up and archived.
B.4 Key Recovery Systems
Key recovery is a broad term that may be applied to several different key-recovery techniques.
Each technique will result in the recovery of a cryptographic key and other information
associated with that key (e.g., the key's metadata). The information required to recover that key
may be different for each application or each key-recovery technique. The term “Key Recovery
Information” (KRI) is used below to refer to the aggregate of information that is needed to
recover or verify cryptographically protected information. Information that may be considered
as KRI includes the keying material to be recovered or sufficient information to reconstruct the
keying material, other associated cryptographic information, the time when the key was
created, the identifier associated with the owner of the key (i.e., the individual, application or
organization that created the key or that owns the data protected by that key) and any
conditions that must be met by a requestor to be able to recover the keying material.
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When an organization determines that key recovery is required for all or part of its keying
material, a secure Key Recovery System (KRS) needs to be established in accordance with a
well-defined Key Recovery Policy (see Appendix B.5). The KRS shall support the Key
Recovery Policy and consists of the techniques and facilities for saving and recovering the
keying material, the procedures for administering the system, and the personnel associated with
the system.
When key recovery is determined to be necessary, the KRI may be stored either within an
organization (in backup or archive storage) or may be stored at a remote site by a trusted entity.
There are many acceptable methods for enabling key recovery. A KRS could be established
using a safe for keying material storage; a KRS might use a single computer that provides the
initial protection of the plaintext information, storage of the associated keying material and
recovery of that keying material; a KRS may include a network of computers with a central
Key Recovery Center; or a KRS could be designed using other configurations. Since a KRS
provides a means for recovering cryptographic keys, a risk assessment should be performed to
ensure that the KRS adequately protects the organization’s information and reliably provides
the KRI when required. It is the responsibility of the organization that needs to provide key
recovery to ensure that the Key Recovery Policy, the key recovery methodology, and the Key
Recovery System adequately protect the KRI.
A KRS used by the Federal government shall:
1. Generate or provide sufficient KRI to allow recovery or verification of protected
information when such information has been stored;
2. Ensure the validity of the saved key and the other KRI;
3. Ensure that the KRI is stored with persistence and availability that is commensurate
with that of the corresponding cryptographically protected data;
4. Use cryptographic modules that are compliant with [FIPS140];
5. Use approved algorithms, when cryptography is used;
6. Use algorithms and key lengths that provide security strengths commensurate with the
sensitivity of the information associated with the KRI;
7. Be designed to enforce the Key Recovery Policy (see Appendix B.5);
8. Protect KRI against unauthorized disclosure or destruction; the KRS shall verify the
source of requests and ensure that only requested and authorized information is
provided to the requestor;
9. Protect the KRI from modification;
10. Have the capability of providing an audit trail; the audit trail shall not contain the keys
that are recovered or any passwords that may be used by the system; the audit trail
should include the identification of the event being audited, the time of the event, the
identifier associated with the user causing the event, and the success or failure of the
event;
11. Limit access to the KRI, the audit trail and authentication data to authorized
individuals; and
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12. Prohibit modification of the audit trail.
B.5 Key Recovery Policy
For each system, application and cryptographic technique used, consideration shall be given as
to whether or not the keying material may need to be saved for later recovery to allow
subsequent decryption or checking the information protected by the keying material. An
organization that determines that key recovery is required for some or all of its keying material
should develop a Key Recovery Policy that addresses the protection and continued
accessibility of that information51
(see [DOD-KRP]). The policy should answer the following
questions (at a minimum):
1. What keying material needs to be saved for a given application? For example, keys and
IVs used for the decryption of stored information may need to be saved. Keys for the
authentication of stored or transmitted information may also need to be saved.
2. How and where will the keying material be saved? For example, the keying material
could be stored in a safe by the individual who initiates the protection of the
information (e.g., the encrypted information), or the keying material could be saved
automatically when the protected information is transmitted, received or stored. The
keying material could be saved locally or at some remote site.
3. Who will be responsible for protecting the KRI? For example, each individual,
organization or sub-organization could be responsible for their own keying material, or
an external organization could perform this function.
4. Who is authorized to receive the KRI upon request and under what conditions? For
example, the individual who protected the information (i.e., used and stored the KRI) or
the organization to which the individual is assigned could recover the keying material.
Legal requirements may need to be considered. An organization could request the
information when the individual who stored the KRI is not available.
5. Under what conditions can the policy be modified and by whom?
6. What audit capabilities and procedures will be included in the KRS? The policy shall
identify the events to be audited. Auditable events might include KRI requests and their
associated responses; who made a request and when; the startup and shutdown of audit
functions; the operations performed to read, modify or destroy the audit data; requests
to access user authentication data; and the uses of authentication mechanisms.
7. How will the KRS deal with aged keying material whose security strength is now
reduced beyond an acceptable level?
8. Who will be notified when keying material is recovered and under what conditions?
For example, the individual who encrypted data and stored the KRI could be notified
when the organization recovers the decryption key because the person is absent, but the
individual might not be notified when the organization is monitoring the activities of
that individual.
51
An organization’s key recovery policy may be included in its PKI Certificate Policy.
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9. What procedures need to be followed when the KRS or some portion of the data within
the KRS is compromised?
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APPENDIX C: References
[AC] Schneier, B. Applied Cryptography Second Edition: Protocols,
Algorithms, and Source Code in C. New York: John Wiley & Sons,
1996.
[ANSX9.31] American National Standards Institute, Digital Signatures using
reversible Public Key Cryptography for the Financial Services Industry
(rDSA), ANS X9.31-1998, 1998 [Withdrawn].
[ANSX9.44] American National Standards Institute, Public Key Cryptography for the
Financial Services Industry: Key Agreement Using Integer Factorization
Cryptography, ANS X9.44, August 2007.
[ANSX9.62] American National Standards Institute, Public Key Cryptography for the
Financial Services Industry: the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature
Algorithm (ECDSA), ANS X9.62:2005, 2005.
[DiCrescenzo] Di Crescenzo, G., N. Ferguson, R. Impagliazzo, and M Jakobsson,
“How to forget a secret,” in STACS 99: 16th Annual Symposium on
Theoretical Aspects of Computer Science, Lecture Notes in Computer
Science 1563, 1999, pp. 500-509. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/3-540-
49116-3_47.
[DOD-KRP] DoD Public Key Infrastructure Program Management Office, Key
Recovery Policy for the United States Department of Defense, Version
3.0, August 31, 2003.
[FIPS140] Federal Information Processing Standard 140-2, Security Requirements
for Cryptographic Modules, May 25, 2001 (include change notices as of
December 3, 2002). http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/fips/fips140-
2/fips1402.pdf [accessed 12/7/15].
[FIPS180] Federal Information Processing Standard 180-4, Secure Hash Standard
(SHS), August 2015. http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.FIPS.180-4.
[FIPS186] Federal Information Processing Standard 186-4, Digital Signature
Standard (DSS), July 2013. http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.FIPS.186-4.
[FIPS197] Federal Information Processing Standard 197, Advanced Encryption
Standard (AES), November 2001.
http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/fips/fips197/fips-197.pdf [accessed
12/7/15].
[FIPS198] Federal Information Processing Standard 198-1, The Keyed-Hash
Message Authentication Code (HMAC), July 2008.
http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/fips/fips198-1/FIPS-198-1_final.pdf
[accessed 12/7/15].
[FIPS199] Federal Information Processing Standard 199, Standards for Security
Categorization of Federal Information and Information Systems,
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February 2004. http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/fips/fips199/FIPS-PUB-
199-final.pdf [accessed 12/7/15].
[FIPS201] Federal Information Processing Standard 201-2, Personal Identity
Verification (PIV) of Federal Employees and Contractors, August 2013.
http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.FIPS.201-2.
[FIPS202] Federal Information Processing Standard 202, SHA-3 Standard:
Permutation-Based Hash and Extendable-Output Functions, August
2015. http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.FIPS.202.
[HAC] Menezes, A. J., P. C. van Ooorschot, and S. A. Vanstone, Handbook of
Applied Cryptography, Washington, D.C.: CRC Press, 1996.
[ITLBulletin] Burr, B. and J. Hash, “Techniques for System and Data Recovery,” ITL
Bulletin, NIST, April 2002. http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistbul/04-
02.pdf [accessed 12/7/15].
[OMB11/01] OMB Guidance to Federal Agencies on Data Availability and
Encryption, Office of Management and Budget, [November 26, 2001].
http://csrc.nist.gov/drivers/documents/ombencryption-guidance.pdf
[accessed 12/7/15].
[PKCS#1] RSA Laboratories, PKCS #1 v2.1, RSA Cryptography Standard, June 14,
2002.
[RFC2560] Myers, M., R. Ankney, A. Malpani, S. Galperin, and C. Adams, X.509
Internet Public Key Infrastructure, Online Certificate Status Protocol –
OCSP, Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) Request for Comments
(RFC) 2560, June 1999. https://www.ietf.org/rfc/rfc2560.txt [accessed
12/7/15].
[SP800-14] NIST Special Publication 800-14, Generally Accepted Principles and
Practices for Securing Information Technology Systems, September
1996. http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-14/800-14.pdf
[accessed 12/7/15].
[SP800-21] NIST Special Publication 800-21 [Second Edition], Guideline for
Implementing Cryptography in the Federal Government, December
2005. http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-21-1/sp800-21-
1_Dec2005.pdf [accessed 12/7/15].
[SP800-32] NIST Special Publication 800-32, Introduction to Public Key
Technology and the Federal PKI Infrastructure, February 2001.
http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-32/sp800-32.pdf [accessed
12/7/15].
[SP800-37] NIST Special Publication 800-37 Revision 1, Guide for Applying the
Risk Management Framework to Federal Information Systems: a
Security Life Cycle Approach, February 2010 (updated June 5, 2014).
http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-37r1.
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[SP800-38] NIST Special Publication 800-38, Recommendation for Block Cipher
Modes of Operation, consists of the following parts, which are further
described at http://csrc.nist.gov/groups/ST/toolkit/BCM/index.html
[accessed 12/7/15]:
NIST SP 800-38A, Methods and Techniques, December 2001.
NIST SP 800-38A (Addendum), Three Variants of Ciphertext Stealing
for CBC Mode, October 2010.
NIST SP 800-38B, The CMAC Mode for Authentication, May 2005.
NIST SP 800-38C, The CCM Mode for Authentication and
Confidentiality, May 2004 (updated July 20, 2007).
NIST SP 800-38D, Galois/Counter Mode (GCM) and GMAC,
November 2007.
NIST SP 800-38E, The XTS-AES Mode for Confidentiality on Storage
Devices, January 2010.
NIST SP 800-38F, Methods for Key Wrapping, December 2012.
NIST SP 800-38G (Draft), Methods for Format-Preserving Encryption,
July 2013.
[SP800-38A] NIST Special Publication 800-38A, Recommendation for Block Cipher
Modes of Operation: Methods and Techniques, December 2001.
http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-38a/sp800-38a.pdf
[accessed 12/7/15].
[SP800-38B] NIST Special Publication 800-38B, Recommendation for Block Cipher
Modes of Operation: The CMAC Mode for Authentication, May 2005.
http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-38B/SP_800-38B.pdf
[accessed 12/7/15].
[SP800-38D] NIST Special Publication 800-38D, Recommendation for Block Cipher
Modes of Operation: Galois/Counter Mode (GCM) and GMAC,
November 2007. http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-38D/SP-
800-38D.pdf [accessed 12/7/15].
[SP800-38F] NIST Special Publication 800-38F, Recommendation for Block Cipher
Modes of Operation: Methods for Key Wrapping, December 2012.
http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-38F.
[SP800-52] NIST Special Publication 800-52 Revision 1, Guidelines for the
Selection, Configuration, and Use of Transport Layer Security (TLS)
Implementations, April 2014. http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-
52r1.
[SP800-56A] NIST Special Publication 800-56A Revision 2, Recommendation for
Pair-Wise Key Establishment Schemes Using Discrete Logarithm
Cryptography, May 2013. http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-
56Ar2.
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[SP800-56B] NIST Special Publication 800-56B Revision 1, Recommendation for
Pair-Wise Key Establishment Schemes Using Integer Factorization
Cryptography, September 2014. http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-
56Br1.
[SP800-56C] NIST Special Publication 800-56C, Recommendation for Key Derivation
through Extraction-then-Expansion, November 2011.
http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-56C/SP-800-56C.pdf
[accessed 12/7/15].
[SP800-57, Part 2] NIST Special Publication 800-57 Part 2, Recommendation for Key
Management: Part 2: Best Practices for Key Management
Organization, August 2005.
http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-57/SP800-57-Part2.pdf
[accessed 12/7/15].
[SP800-63] NIST Special Publication 800-63-2, Electronic Authentication
Guideline, August 2013. http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-63-2.
[SP800-67] NIST Special Publication 800-67 Revision 1, Recommendation for
Triple Data Encryption Algorithm (TDEA) Block Cipher, January 2012.
http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-67-Rev1/SP-800-67Rev1.pdf
[accessed 12/7/15].
[SP 800-88] NIST Special Publication 800-88 Revision 1, Guidelines for Media
Sanitization, December 2014. http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-
88r1.
[SP800-89] NIST Special Publication 800-89, Recommendation for Obtaining
Assurances for Digital Signature Applications, November 2006.
http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-89/SP-800-
89_November2006.pdf [accessed 12/7/15].
[SP800-90] Joint reference to [SP800-90A], [SP800-90B], and [SP800-90C].
[SP800-90A] NIST Special Publication 800-90A Revision 1, Recommendation for
Random Number Generation Using Deterministic Random Bit
Generators, June 2015. http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-90Ar1.
[SP800-90B] NIST Special Publication 800-90B (Draft), Recommendation for the
Entropy Sources Used for Random Bit Generation, August 2012 [reissued
September 9, 2013]. http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/drafts/800-
90/draft-sp800-90b.pdf [accessed 12/7/15].
[SP800-90C] NIST Special Publication 800-90C (Draft), Recommendation for
Random Bit Generator (RBG) Constructions, August 2012 [re-issued
September 9, 2013. http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/drafts/800-90/draftsp800-90c.pdf
[accessed 12/7/15].
[SP800-107] NIST Special Publication 800-107 Revision 1, Recommendation for
Applications Using Approved Hash Algorithms, August 2012.
http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-107-rev1/sp800-107rev1.pdf
[accessed 12/7/15].
NIST SP 800-57 Pt. 1 Rev. 4 Recommendation for
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[SP800-108] NIST Special Publication 800-108, Recommendation for Key Derivation
Using Pseudorandom Functions, October 2009.
http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-108/sp800-108.pdf
[accessed 12/7/15].
[SP800-130] NIST Special Publication 800-130, A Framework for Designing
Cryptographic Key Management Systems, August 2013.
http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-130.
[SP800-131A] NIST Special Publication 800-131A Revision 1, Transition:
Recommendation for Transitioning the Use of Cryptographic Algorithms
and Key Lengths, November 2015.
http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-131Ar1.
[SP800-132] NIST Special Publication 800-132, Recommendation for PasswordBased
Key Derivation - Part 1: Storage Applications, December 2010.
http://csrc.nist.gov/publications/nistpubs/800-132/nist-sp800-132.pdf
[accessed 12/7/15].
[SP800-133] NIST Special Publication 800-133, Recommendation for Cryptographic
Key Generation, December 2012.
http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-133.
[SP800-152] NIST Special Publication 800-152, A Profile for U. S. Federal
Cryptographic Key Management Systems (CKMS), October 2015.
http://dx.doi.org/10.6028/NIST.SP.800-152.
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APPENDIX D: Revisions
The original version of this document was published in August 2005. In May 2006, the
following revisions were incorporated:
1. The definition of security strength has been revised to remove “or security level”
from the first column, since this term is not used in the document.
2. In the footnote for 2TDEA in Table 2 of Section 5.6.1, the word “guarantee” has
been changed to “assessment”.
3. In the paragraph under Table 2 in Section 5.6.1: The change originally identified
for the 2006 revision has been superseded by the 2011 revision discussed below.
4. In Table 3 of Section 5.6.1, a list of appropriate hash functions have been inserted
into the HMAC and Key Derivation Function columns. In addition, a footnote has
been included for the Key Derivation Function column.
5. The original text for the paragraph immediately below Table 3 has been removed.
In March 2007, the following revisions were made to allow the dual use of keys during
certificate requests:
1. In Section 5.2, the following text was added:
“This Recommendation also permits the use of a private key-transport or keyagreement
private key to generate a digital signature for the following special
case:
When requesting the (initial) certificate for a static key-establishment key,
the associated private key may be used to sign the certificate request. Also
refer to Section 8.1.5.1.1.2.”
2. In Section 8.1.5.1.1.2, the fourth paragraph was originally as follows:
“The owner provides POP by performing operations with the private key that
satisfy the indicated key use. For example, if a key pair is intended to support
key transport, the owner may decrypt a key provided to the owner by the CA
that is encrypted using the owner's public key. If the owner can correctly
decrypt the ciphertext key using the associated private key and then provide
evidence that the key was correctly decrypted (e.g., by encrypting a random
challenge from the CA, then the owner has established POP. Where a key pair
is intended to support key establishment, POP shall not be afforded by
generating and verifying a digital signature with the key pair.”
The paragraph was changed to the following, where the changed text is indicated
in italics:
“The (reputed) owner should provide POP by performing operations with the
private key that satisfy the indicated key use. For example, if a key pair is
intended to support RSA key transport, the CA may provide the owner with a
key that is encrypted using the owner's public key. If the owner can correctly
decrypt the ciphertext key using the associated private key and then provide
evidence that the key was correctly decrypted (e.g., by encrypting a random
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challenge from the CA, then the owner has established POP. However, when a
key pair is intended to support key establishment, POP may also be afforded
by using the private key to digitally sign the certificate request (although this
is not the preferred method). The private key establishment private key (i.e.,
the private key-agreement or key-transport key) shall not be used to perform
signature operations after certificate issuance.”
In September 2011, several editorial corrections and clarifications were made, and the
following revisions were also made:
1. The Authority section has been updated.
2. Section 1.2: The description of SP800-57, Part 3 has been modified per that
document.
3. Section 2.1: Definitions for key-derivation function, key-derivation key, key
length, key size, random bit generator and user were added. Definitions for
archive, key management archive, key recovery, label, owner, private key, proof
of possession, public key, security life of data, seed, shared secret and should
have been modified. The definition for cryptomodule was removed.
4. Section 2.2: The RBG acronym was inserted.
5. References to FIPS 180-3, FIPS 186-3, SP 800-38, SP 800-56A, SP 800-56B, SP
800-56C, SP 800-89, SP 800-90, SP 800-107, SP 800-108, SP 800-131A, SP 800-
132 and SP 800-133 have been corrected or inserted.
6. Section 4.2.4: A footnote was added about the two general types of digital
signatures and the focus for this Recommendation.
7. Sections 4.2.5, 4.2.5.3, 4.2.5.5 and 5.3: Discussions about SP 800-56B have been
included.
8. Section 5.1.1: The definitions of private signature key, public signatureverification
key, symmetric authentication key, private authentication key and
public authentication key have been corrected to reflect their current use in
systems and protocols. This change is reflected throughout the document.
9. Section 5.1.2, item 3: The description of shared secret has been modified to state
that shared secrets are to be protected and handled as if they are cryptographic
keys.
10. Sections 5.1.2, 5.3.7, 6.1.2 (Table 5), 8.1.5.3.4, 8.1.5.3.5, 8.2.2.1 (Table 7) and
8.3.1 (Table 9): “Other secret information” has been added to the list of other
cryptographic or related information.
11. Section 5.3.1: An additional risk factor was inserted about personnel turnover.
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12. Section 5.3.4: A statement was inserted to clarify the difference between the
cryptoperiod of a public key and the validity period of a certificate.
13. Section 5.3.6: Statements were inserted that emphasize that longer or shorter
cryptoperiods than those suggested may be warranted. Also, further discussion
was added about the cryptoperiod of the public ephemeral key-agreement key.
14. Section 5.4.4: A discussion of an owner’s assurance of private-key possession
was added.
15. Section 5.5: Statements were added about the compromise of a CA’s private
signature key, and advice was provided for handling such an event.
16. Section 5.6.1: Table 3 and the text preceding the table have been revised for
clarity. Additional footnotes were inserted related to table entries, and the
footnote about the security strength provided by SHA-1 was modified to indicate
that its security strength for digital signature applications remains the subject of
speculation.
17. Sections 5.6.2 – 5.6.4: Table 4 and the text preceding it have been modified to be
consistent with SP 800-131A. Also, the examples have been modified.
18. Section 5.6.5: This new section was added to address the implications associated
with the reduction of security strength because of improvements in computational
capabilities or cryptanalysis.
19. Sections 7, 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3: The description of the states and their transitions have
been reworded to require specific behavior (e.g., using shall or shall not
statements, rather than containing statement of fact (e.g., using “is” or are”).
20. Section 7.3: A discussion of the transition of a private key-transport key and an
ephemeral private key-agreement key were added. The previous discussion on
private and public key-agreement keys was changed to discuss static private and
public key-agreement keys and ephemeral public key-agreement keys.
21. Section 8.1.5.3.4: This section was revised to be more consistent with SP 800-
90A.
22. Sections 8.1.5.3.7 and 8.1.5.3.8: New sections were inserted to discuss the
distribution of random numbers and passwords.
23. Section 8.1.6: Text was inserted to indicate which keys would or would not be
registered.
24. Section 8.2.4: This section was revised to be consistent with SP 800-56A SP 800-
56B, SP 800-56C, SP 800-108 and SP 800-132.
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25. Section 8.3.1, Table 9: The table was modified to indicate that it is OK to archive
the static key-agreement key.
26. Changes were made to Sections 8.3.1; 9.3.2; and Appendices B, B.1, B.3, B.3.1.2,
B.3.2, B.3.4, B.3.5, and B.3.10.2 to remove the impression that archiving is only
performed after the end of the cryptoperiod of a key (e.g., keys could be archived
immediately upon activation), and that the keys in an archive are only of historical
interest (e.g., they may be needed to decrypt data long after the cryptoperiod of a
key).
27. Section 8.3.3: The discussion about de-registering compromised and noncompromised
keys was modified.
28. Section 8.3.5: A discussion about how revocation is achieved for a PKI and for
symmetric-key systems was added.
29. Appendix B.14.9 was revised to be consistent with SP 800-132.
30. The tags for references to FIPS were modified to remove the version number. The
version number is provided in Appendix C.
In 2015, several editorial corrections and clarifications were made, and the following
revisions were also made:
1. Changed the reference to SP 800-21 to SP 800-175.
2. Corrected web site links.
3. Section 1.4: Now refer to FIPS and NIST Recommendations as "NIST standards."
Explain the concept of the cryptographic toolkit (in a footnote).
4. Section 2.1: Modified the definitions of Algorithm originator-usage period,
Archive, authentication, authentication code, certification authority, DRBG,
Digital signature, Key derivation, Key-encrypting key, Key Management Policy,
Key transport, Key update, Key wrapping, Key-wrapping key, Message
authentication code, Non-repudiation, Owner, Recipient-usage period, RBG seed,
Secure communication protocol, Security services, Signature generation,
Signature verification, Source authentication, and Trust anchor.
Added definitions for Data-encryption key, Identity authentication, Integrity
authentication, Integrity protection, Key-derivation method, Key length, NIST
standards, and Source authentication.
Removed the definitions of Key attribute and Work.
5. Section 2.2: Referenced the applicable publications.
6. Many of the mentions of "attributes" have been changed to "metadata" to align
with discussions in SP 800-152.
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7. Section 3 and throughout the document: more clearly discusses authentication as
either integrity authentication or source authentication. Identity authentication has
been considered as source authentication.
8. Section 3.3: Rewritten to more clearly discuss integrity authentication or source
authentication.
9. Section 3.4: Rewritten to more clearly discuss the how authorization is obtained.
10. Section 3.5: Rewritten to provide a more realistic discussion of non-repudiation,
i.e., discussing support for non-repudiation, rather than actually providing nonrepudiation.
References to non-repudiation in the document have been rewritten
to discuss support for non-repudiation.
11. Section 3.7: The examples have been rewritten.
12. Inserted references to FIPS 202, as well as to FIPS 180.
13. Section 4.1: Remove a reference to the Dual_EC_DRBG specified in SP 800-
90A.
14. Section 4.2.2.2: Rewritten to address the non-approval of two-key TDEA for
applying protection after 2015 (as indicated in SP 800-131A).
15. Section 4.2.2.3: Inserted rationale for not using the ECB mode.
16. Section 4.2.3.1: Revised to refer to both the CMAC and GMAC modes of
operation.
17. Section 4.2.4:Rewritten to provide more information about FIPS 186.
18. Section 4.2.5.1: Further discussion of SP 800-56A has been included.
19. Section 4.2.5.3: Added references to SP 800-56A and SP 800-56B for discussion
of the security properties of the key-establishment schemes.
20. Section 4.2.5.4: Rewritten to clarify the use of "key wrapping"vs. "key
encryption" in the document.
21. Section 4.2.7: Rewritten to describe SP 800-90A, SP 800-90B and SP 800-90C.
22. Section 5.1.1: More details added to the symmetric data-encryption key,
symmetric key-wrapping key, and public key-transport key.
Added notes of intent to the private and public authentication keys.
23. Section 5.2: The use of "should" in the first line has been changed to "shall" to
more strongly indicate that keys must not be used for multiple purposes. The use
of "should" presented a conflict with later discussions in the document.
24. Section 5.3.1: Added a reference to quantum computers in the list.
25. Section 5.3.4: Rewritten to discuss the originator-usage period and recipient usage
period of asymmetric key pairs.
26. Section 5.3.6: Further clarification of the cryptoperiod added to the Private
signature key (footnote), Public signature verification key, Private authentication
key (footnote), Public authentication key (footnote), Symmetric authentication
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key, Symmetric key-agreement key, Symmetric key-wrapping key, Symmetric
RBG keys, Public key-transport key, and Private static key-agreement key.
Corrected Symmetric data-encryption key and Symmetric key-wrapping key to
agree with Table 1.
Table 1: Modified the header to refer to the originator-usage period and the
recipient-usage period. Added a note to the Symmetric key-agreement key for
clarification.
27. Section 5.4.2: Additional information inserted about obtaining assurance of
domain parameter validity.
28. Section 5.4.3: Additional information inserted about obtaining assurance of public
key validity.
29. Section 5.4.4: The details about obtaining assurance of private key possession
have been removed, since this is discussed in SP 800-89. A note was added that
this assurance could be obtained by a CA.
30. Section 5.5: Unnecessary text has been removed.
31. Section 5.6.1: The security-strength discussion has been revised, and a reference
to SP 800-158 has been inserted.
Deleted a note about the block size that was unnecessary.
Table 2 has been revised to provide a visual indication of which key sizes are no
longer approved for applying cryptographic protection, which are approved, and
which are approved, but not specifically mentioned in the FIPS standards. The
note about SHA-1 was modified.
Table 3 and the following text have been revised to clearly indicate that SHA-1 is
no longer approved for generating digital signatures. The SHA-3 hash functions
are now included in the table. A note has been added to the header for HMAC.
32. Section 5.6.2: Table 4 has been updated to indicate the currently projected
security strength time frames.
33. Section 5.6.3: A reference to SP 800-158 has been inserted for discussions about
determining the actual security strength of a key, based on how it was generated
and subsequently handled.
34. Section 6.1: Changes have been made to the integrity and confidentiality
protection topics to be consistent with [SP 800-152]. For the integrity protection
topic, " integrity protection can be provided by cryptographic integrity
mechanisms..." has been changed to " integrity protection shall be provided by
cryptographic integrity mechanisms...".
35. Section 6.2: An "in use" state has been introduced, along with an
acknowledgement that the key may also be in transit and/or in storage.
36. Section 6.2.1.3: additional guidance has been added about the generation of the
key components.
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37. Section 6.2.2.1: A paragraph has been added to mention a case where the
availability of a key is not desired, and providing a reference to a publication that
discusses cryptographic sanitization.
38. Section 6.2.2.3: Addition text was inserted to address the [FIPS 140-2] security
level in accordance with [SP 800-152].
39. Section 6.2.3.1: A key's history has been inserted as a possible metadata item. A
reference to SP 800-158 has been included to provide guidance on handling
metadata.
40. Section 7 has been completely rewritten, including adding a suspended state and
providing clarity on the transitions of the different key types. A suspended state
has been added to Figure 3 and the discussion.
41. Section 8: The suspended state has been added to the discussions and included in
Figure 5.
42. Section 8.1.5: A reference to SP 800-133 has been included.
43. Section 8.1.5.1: A sentence has been added to the end of paragraph 2 about
distributing keying material to an organization's sub-entities.
44. Section 8.1.5.1.1.1: The section has been revised to clearly and more correctly
describe what a trust anchor is (i.e., a CA, not a certificate for that CA).
45. Section 8.1.5.1.2: A reference to SP 800-56B has been removed, since it does not
include schemes that use ephemeral keys.
46. Section 8.1.5.2, 8.1.5.2.2, and 8.2.3.2: References to the use of key update as an
approved method for key change have been removed or modified.
47. Section 8.1.5.2.2.2: References to SP 800-38F, SP 800-56A and SP 800-56B have
been added. A note has been added to mention authenticated encryption modes.
48. Section 8.1.5.2.3: Mentions of key wrapping have been removed, since it is not
used in key-agreement schemes.
49. Section 8.1.5.3.4 has been rewritten.
50. Sections 8.2.1.1 and 8.2.1.2 : The mention of a "device" has been removed, as the
appropriate reference is to cryptographic modules.
51. Section 8.2.3.2: Key update is now disallowed, as stated in SP 800-152.
52. Section 8.3.1: More guidance has been provided on using archives.
53. Section 8.3.4: The text was modified to discuss the destruction of a key, rather
than the destruction of the media containing a destroyed key.
54. Section 8.3.5, paragraph 6: "...the corresponding public-key certificate should be
revoked " has been changed to "...the corresponding public-key certificate shall
be revoked as soon as possible," and more guidance has been provided about
using revoked certificates.
55. Section 10: A reference has been included to SP 800-130 and SP 800-152.
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54. Section 10.2.7: A reference to identity-based privileging has been added.
55. Appendix B.3: The first list of decision items has been replaced with a reference
to Section 8.2.2.2 to avoid duplication.
56. Appendix B.3.3.1: The first sentence has been rewritten verify the edentity of the
entity...", rather than "verify the authenticity...".
57. Appendix B.3.3.2: Rewritten.
58. Appendix B.3.4 and B.3.5: Text about the security strength has been removed as
being inappropriate for this section.
59. Appendix C: The references have been updated, including the addition of FIPS
202, SP 800-38G, SP 800-90, SP 800-130 and SP 800-152.