public key

A key that you (or your device) can publicly share with someone or something else. This key can be used only to encode (or encryptEncryption refers to encoding and decoding (or encrypting and decrypting) data so that it can't be read unless you have the right key. It's critical for good security.) data; it can’t be used to read that data. Each public keyA key that can be freely sent out in public, without being hidden. It works because it’s paired with a separate private key that’s needed for reading a message that was encrypted with the related public key. has a matching private keyA key that should be known only by your device and, possibly, by someone or something else that your device is communicating with. It must be kept secret., and the private key is used for decoding (or decrypting) data. This lets you have a secureRefers to whether or not IoT devices or data are protected from unauthorized viewers. conversation with someone or something that you’ve never shared keysA number used to encrypt (or encode) information so that no one can read it. Keys are used when encoding and decoding. You shouldn't have to mess with keys yourself. with before.