Definition
A key distribution centre is a network component that manages accessibility in a network. it assigns keys and cryptographic tickets to authenticate users and grant access to certain network resources.
KDCs have many use cases, including educational agencies, corporate networks, cloud services, networked applications, and SSO solutions.
How a Key Distribution Centre Works
- The KDC is configured with records of all users and their respective secret keys. It also contains service providers’ records and secret keys.
- KDC verifies user’s credentials upon their initial ticket request and sends them an encrypted ticket and session key.
- The user uses the ticket to request special access to a network service such as printing or remote logging.
- The service validates the user’s request and gives access to resources.
- Throughout the process, the session key secures and encrypts the communication between the user and the service to prevent unauthorized access.
Key Distribution Centre Examples
- Kerberos Authentication System: KDC in Kerberos verifies identities and distributes encryption keys, minimizing exposure of user credentials.
- WPA2: WPA2 utilizes a KDC mechanism to authenticate devices and maintain Wi-Fi network security.
- Microsoft Active Directory: Active Directory incorporates a KDC for distributing encryption keys to users, computers, and services to maintain the integrity of network communication and protect the transmission of sensitive data.