Back to Wiki

How does a Certificate Authority work?

A Certificate Authority usually operates in hierarchies where a Root CA certifies itself (self signed) and a subordinate CA is certified (signed) by a superior CA. Most Certificate Authority software solutions work with standard interfaces and protocols so that interoperability can be guaranteed.

A Certificate Authority works together with a Registration Authority where the RA issues a certificate request to the CA via a user-friendly GUI or via integration friendly APIs and standard protocols.

How PrimeKey can help

EJBCA Enterprise provides a complete public key infrastructure (PKI) and certificate management, for implementing a CA.

Explore EJBCA Enterprise

PrimeKey offers an industry-first solution, Identity Authority Manager, for implementing an RA directly into a smart manufacturing environment.

Explore Identity Authority Manager

This website uses cookies

Cookies consist of small text files. They contain data that is stored on your device. To enable us to place certain types of cookies we need to obtain your consent. At , corp. ID no. , we use the following kinds of cookies. To read more about which cookies we use and storage times, click here to access our cookies policy.

Accept all

Manage your cookie-settings

Necessary cookies

Necessary cookies are cookies that must be placed for basic functions to work on the website. Basic functions are, for example, cookies which are needed so that you can use menus on the website and navigate on the site.

Functional cookies

Functional cookies need to be placed on the website in order for it to perform as you would expect. For example, so that it recognizes which language you prefer, whether or not you are logged in, to keep the website secure, remember login details or to be able to sort products on the website according to your preferences.

Cookies for statistics

For us to measure your interactions with the website, we place cookies in order to keep statistics. These cookies anonymize personal data.

Cookies for ad-tracking

To enable us to offer better service and experience, we place cookies so that we can provide relevant advertising. Another aim of this processing is to enable us to promote products or services, provide customized offers or provide recommendations based on what you have purchased in the past.
Confirm choices