File extension .KEY
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Licence Or Encrypted Security Format | N/A | Misc Files |
The .KEY file extension is a cryptographic key generated by Symantec PGP software. It is used to encrypt and decrypt user data and is used in symmetric encryption mechanisms. The .KEY file typically contains an encrypted security key, but it can also contain a certificate (which is a signed statement created by an authority). The contents of the .KEY file can be accessed using the program that created the file and serves as an authentication for both parties involved in the encryption process.
Encryption Standards Used by the.KEY File
PGP uses the PKCS#5 or PKCS#12 standards to generate the keys within .KEY files. PKCS#5 is a public-key cryptography standard which employs an algorithm that uses a single password or passphrase to derive an encryption key. It can also be used to protect symmetric keys, which are stored with the encrypted data. PKCS#12, on the other hand, is based on public-key cryptography and uses two separate passwords instead of one. It stores multiple certificates, private keys, and other associated data securely.
Similar File Types
.KEY files are often confused with other file types such as .PGP, .P7B, and .PFX files. They all have different purposes and serve different functions in terms of encryption. Additionally, these files are commonly encountered in digital certificates, such as SSL certificates.
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .KEY) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .KEY extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .KEY file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .KEY extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .KEY extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .KEY file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .KEY file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .KEY file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .KEY file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .KEY file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines
Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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