What is the primary function of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)?

The primary function of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) is to manage digital certificates and public-key encryption, which are essential for establishing secure communications over untrusted networks. PKI provides the necessary framework for creating, managing, distributing, and revoking digital certificates, which bind an individual's or entity's identity to their public key. This ensures that the public keys used for encryption and digital signatures are legitimate and authentic, allowing for secure data exchange and verification processes.

By enabling secure communications, PKI supports various security protocols, such as HTTPS, that are fundamental to online transactions and communications. The robust management of these digital certificates helps in preventing impersonation and man-in-the-middle attacks, thereby enhancing the overall security posture of organizations.

While other options may involve aspects of security, such as protecting data or network traffic monitoring, they do not specifically address the core role of PKI, which revolves around the management and implementation of public-key cryptography and digital certificates.