Asymmetric encryption is used in key exchange, email security, Web security, and other encryption systems that require key exchange over the public network. Two keys (public and private), private key cannot be derived for the public, so the public key can be freely distributed without confidentially being compromised.

What is asymmetric encryption used for?

Asymmetric encryption (also known as asymmetric cryptography) allows users to encrypt information using shared keys. You need to send a message across the internet, but you don't want anyone but the intended recipient to see what you've written.

Which common applications use asymmetric encryption algorithms?

The SSL/TSL cryptographic protocols - establishing encrypted links between websites and browsers also makes use of asymmetric encryption. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies rely on asymmetric cryptography as users have public keys that everyone can see and private keys that are kept secret.