Smart Card

It provided potential along with memory capacity. This knowledge is associated with either value or information or both and is stored and processed within the card's chip, either a memory or microprocessor (CPU). The card knowledge is transacted by a reader that is part of a computing technique.

It is a kind of synthetic card implanted with a computer chip that stores and transacts knowledge among users.

Based on the way the smart card interacts with the Reader, smart cards are of types:

Contact:

These need insertion in to the Card reader. The contact consists of little contact plate on the face, which is �½'' in Diameter. The transmission of knowledge takes place when this contact plate comes in contact with the connector of the reader.

Contact less:

These need close propinquity of the reader. The Contact less consists of an IC Chip and antenna coil embedded in to it. These cards are chiefly used when transactions must be processed quickly.

Reader:

Computer based readers Connect through USB or COM (Serial) ports.

Security of smart cards:

This security is not ideal, and it can be physically attacked. Reading or writing on the chip (memory, bus) analyzing timing or power consumption (DPA). There is not temper-proof, but are temper-resistant and temper-evident.

Authentication

Factor Authentication:

Its security level depends on the secret information being known only by the individual in query. With piece of information, it is difficult for the individual to know whether their secrets have been compromised and become known to other individuals.

Factor Authentication:

Within a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), if the private key is held on a token that the individual carries with them, then a factor authentication mechanism is provided.

Factor Authentication:

In general, this implies the use of biometric information about the individual such as a fingerprint, a retina scan, etc. The smart card may even be used as an excellent enabling mechanism here as well.

For example, smart card readers with embedded finger print scanners are available. The finger print template for an individual can be stored on the card, along with a private key.

Applications:

Smart card expertise is emerging, applications are in every single place. Smart cards enhance service and security. These be positive legal users can only access information and this information in the technique is confidential. This year, billion smart cards will be produced worldwide by several huge manufacturers. Currently, 95% of these cards are issued in Europe, South The united states, and Asia.