Asymmetric encryption, also known as public-key encryption, encrypts and decrypts data using two separate yet mathematically connected cryptographic keys. One key is called the public key and can be shared with anyone, while the other key is called the private key and must be kept secret. The public key is used to encrypt the data, and only the corresponding private key can decrypt it. Likewise, the private key can be used to sign the data, and only the corresponding public key can verify it. This method provides confidentiality, integrity, authentication and non-repudiation for data.