Which one of the following best describes asymmetric cryptography?

Asymmetric cryptography is characterized by the use of two different keys for the processes of encryption and decryption. In this system, a pair of keys is generated: one public key and one private key. The public key is used to encrypt the data, while the private key, which is kept secret, is used to decrypt it. This dual-key mechanism allows secure communication since anyone can encrypt a message using the public key, but only the holder of the corresponding private key can decrypt it.

This method enhances security, especially in scenarios such as secure communications or digital signatures, where the authenticity of the sender can be verified without sharing the private key. In contrast, other methods, like symmetric cryptography, rely on a single key for both encryption and decryption, which can pose risks if the key is compromised. The unique key pair system in asymmetric cryptography provides a significant advantage in terms of security for many modern applications.