Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Cybersecurity Practice Test

What role does a certificate authority play?

1. Issues digital certificates

2. Provides internet connectivity

3. Creates firewalls for networks

4. Designs public key algorithms

The correct answer is: Issues digital certificates

The role of a certificate authority (CA) is fundamentally centered around the issuance of digital certificates. These certificates are essential for establishing a secure communication channel over the internet, as they verify the identity of entities such as websites, individuals, and organizations. When a digital certificate is issued by a trusted CA, it includes the public key of the entity and attests to its ownership. This enables users and systems to trust that they are communicating with the intended parties and not impostors, thereby enhancing the overall security of digital interactions. In the context of cybersecurity, the digital certificates provided by CAs facilitate various security protocols, such as SSL/TLS, which are crucial for safeguarding data transmitted over the web. Consequently, the work of a CA helps to build trust in online environments, making it a fundamental component in e-commerce, online banking, and other secure operations. The other options, while related to cybersecurity in different capacities, do not accurately describe the core function of a certificate authority. Digital certificates are distinctly separate from internet connectivity, firewall creation, or public key algorithm design, which are managed by other types of entities or technologies in the vast field of cybersecurity.