Software → Security
Digital Signature
A cryptographic proof that data was produced by a holder of a private key and was not modified afterward.
Motivation
Digital signature solves the problem of proving that data came from a holder of a private key and was not changed.
Where it fits
Digital Signature belongs to public-key cryptography.
Mental model
A signature is created with a private key and verified with the matching public key.
Common mistakes
- Thinking signatures hide the message.
- Ignoring certificate trust and key ownership.
Related concepts
Digital Signature connects to public-key cryptography, certificate authority, cryptographic hash, and TLS.