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Glossary · Security

ECC

Elliptic Curve Cryptography

In plain language

A way of locking and unlocking data with a pair of keys that stays strong even when the keys are short.

The metaphor

Like a lock that is smaller and lighter than the usual kind but just as hard to pick.

Going deeper

How it works

  • It uses a public key to lock and a private key to unlock, like RSA, but with much shorter keys.
  • Shorter keys make it fast, which suits phones and small devices.
  • Modern websites, messaging apps and many VPNs use it behind the scenes.
  • The software makes the choice for you.
In practice
  • A website certificate uses it so pages load quickly on phones.
  • A messaging app uses it to set up encrypted chats.
  • A VPN uses it to agree on keys when it connects.

A question owners ask

Do I need to pick it?

No. Your browser, apps and provider choose it for you. It is one reason newer devices can do strong encryption without slowing down.

Related terms
AAAAuthentication, Authorization, and AccountingAccount takeoverACLAccess Control ListAdmin accountAESAdvanced Encryption StandardAES-256Advanced Encryption Standards 256-bitAISAutomated Indicator SharingAPTAdvanced Persistent Threat

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