Key exchange

Key exchange is a secure method for two parties to share a secret code (encryption key) over an insecure channel, enabling confidential communication. It typically involves algorithms that allow each person to generate a unique private key and then exchange some related information publicly. Using mathematical principles, both parties can then derive the same secret key independently, without revealing their private keys. This process ensures that even if someone intercepts the exchanges, they cannot determine the secret key, safeguarding the privacy of the communication. Popular methods include Diffie-Hellman and elliptic-curve algorithms.