RSA Cryptosystem

Definition ∞ The RSA cryptosystem is a public-key encryption method used for secure data exchange and digital signatures. This asymmetric cryptographic algorithm relies on the computational difficulty of factoring large prime numbers to secure communications. It employs a pair of keys, one public for encryption and verification, and one private for decryption and signing. While not typically used for on-chain transaction signing in most modern blockchains due to computational overhead, RSA remains a foundational element for securing internet communications and digital certificates, which underpin many interactions with digital asset platforms.
Context ∞ While newer cryptographic schemes, like elliptic curve cryptography, have gained prominence in blockchain for their efficiency, the RSA cryptosystem continues to serve as a benchmark for public-key security. Discussions in news often reference RSA in broader cybersecurity contexts, including its use in securing web traffic to cryptocurrency exchanges or for digital identity verification. Its long-standing security properties are continuously evaluated against advancements in computational power.