Cryptographic key types

These keys might be various shapes and sizes, but one thing is certain, each will generally serve a separate purpose.

One key might be used to start an automobile, while another might be used to open a safe deposit box.

The automobile key will not work to open the safe deposit box and vice versa.

This analogy provides some insight on how cryptographic key types work.

Most other key types are designed to last for long crypto-periods, from about one to two years.