Cryptographic keys are essential components in the field of cryptography, used to secure data and communications. They are strings of bits that determine the output of a cryptographic algorithm, enabling the encryption and decryption of information. There are two main types of keys: symmetric keys, which use the same key for both encryption and decryption, and asymmetric keys, which use a pair of keys—one public and one private. The security of encrypted data relies heavily on the strength and secrecy of these keys. If a key is compromised, unauthorized individuals can access sensitive information. Therefore, proper key management practices, such as regular key rotation and secure storage, are crucial for maintaining data security.