Asymmetric Encryption uses mathematically related key pairs: a public key that can be freely distributed and a private key that must remain secret. Data encrypted with the public key can only be decrypted with the corresponding private key. This solves the key distribution problem—anyone can encrypt messages to you using your public key, but only you can decrypt them.
Common asymmetric algorithms include RSA, Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC), and Diffie-Hellman (for key exchange). Asymmetric operations are computationally expensive, so they’re typically used for key exchange and digital signatures rather than bulk data encryption.
CISSP Relevance
Domain 3 (Security Architecture and Engineering) covers asymmetric cryptography extensively. Understand key pair relationships, common algorithms, performance tradeoffs, and typical applications. Know how hybrid encryption combines asymmetric key exchange with symmetric bulk encryption for practical secure communications.
Key management guidance is in NIST SP 800-57 Recommendation for Key Management.
Related terms: Symmetric Encryption, PKI