A cryptographic card and a reader are a set that enhances the security of electronic signature submission. Discover the potential applications of this set. In this article, we have gathered key information about them for you. You will learn what cryptographic cards and readers are, how such a set works, and which products are recommended by industry experts.
- What is a smart cryptographic card?
- What is a cryptographic card reader?
- How does a cryptographic card work with a reader?
- What to consider when choosing a cryptographic card and reader?
- Cryptographic card and reader – summary
- What is a smart cryptographic card?
- What is a cryptographic card reader?
- How does a cryptographic card work with a reader?
- What to consider when choosing a cryptographic card and reader?
- Cryptographic card and reader – summary
What is a smart cryptographic card?
According to a simple definition, a cryptographic card is a device used to secure an e-signature. This type of card comes with a reader. Confidential data required for the owner to sign electronically or perform another action requiring verification is stored on it. The device is designed to provide a high level of security through, among other things, data encryption and the generation of individual cryptographic keys.
Cryptographic cards are used in areas such as:
- qualified electronic signature,
- qualified electronic seal,
- electronic identity documents,
- public transport,
- payments and micro-payments,
- electronic passports,
- physical and logical access,
- transmission of other confidential data.
The main formats and types of cryptographic cards include:
- Smart Card – resembles a traditional ATM card,
- USB Token – a card connected to a computer or other device via a USB port,
- PCI and PCIe cards – installed directly in computers or servers,
- HSM cards – offer the highest standard of security and may take the form of internal cards or external modules.
Additionally, Smart Card cryptographic cards in the ISO/IEC 7816 format also include contactless devices. Their operation is based on NFC technology, allowing data transmission by simply bringing the card close to the reader, which communicates via radio waves.
One of the most popular models on the market is the Gemalto IDPrime 930nc Card. This is a contact card supporting PKI and OTP technologies. It is designed for use with the Source application, the Central Electoral Register, as well as for logging into Pobyt v.2 systems or traditional applications for a qualified electronic signature.
Another popular cryptographic card model is the ATOS CardOS v5.3. It is available in contact and contactless versions in large card or SIM card formats. This model meets the highest security standards and supports solutions such as RSA 4096, SHA 256, and AES 256.
What is a cryptographic card reader?
A cryptographic card reader is a small electronic device that reads information stored on cryptographic cards. The reader securely and encryptedly retrieves data from the card, protected by a cryptographic key. This solution is used in security systems, authentication systems, access control systems, and electronic signatures. Simply put, the device acts as an intermediary between the computer and the card, enabling data transmission.
Main types of readers
Currently, there are several basic types of cryptographic card readers, differing in design, functionality, and potential applications. These include:
- wireless sets,
- wired sets,
- contact sets – require card insertion,
- contactless sets (proximity) – operate on wireless RFID or NFC technology,
- hybrid sets (both contact and contactless),
- USB sets (USB readers, flash drives),
- embedded sets.
One of the most popular readers on the market is the FEITIAN R301-B9 USB Smart Card Reader in USB form. It supports SIM cards and complies with PC/SC and CCID standards, ensuring efficient data reading while maintaining high security.
Another frequently chosen reader is the Gemalto IDBridge CT30. This is a wired model in the form of a USB processor card reader. It can be used with various contact card types, making it ideal for use with desktop computers, such as in offices or banking sectors. It pairs perfectly with the previously mentioned 930nc card model.
How does a cryptographic card work with a reader?
The principle of operation for a cryptographic card and reader set is relatively simple. The user inserts the card into a contact reader or brings it close to a contactless reader, initiating a connection. After establishing the connection, access to the card must be authorized (PIN entry). Once authorized, the selected cryptographic operation can be performed using the data stored in the card’s microprocessor. This includes user authentication, data encryption, and decryption using cryptographic keys on the device. Finally, the action (e.g., qualified signature) is processed and confirmed.
This set is most commonly used for submitting a qualified signature to authenticate users. This applies to logging into electronic systems or submitting official documents. Additionally, cryptographic cards are used in contactless payments (NFC technology), access control systems (e.g., to restricted zones), electronic tickets, etc. However, it is commonly used for Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES).
What to consider when choosing a cryptographic card and reader?
Typically, the card and reader come as a set. Selecting the right set is crucial and requires careful analysis of the products available on the market. Key considerations include compliance with current regulations and ISO security standards to ensure the highest level of security.
Another important aspect is the card’s cryptographic support. Different models support various cryptographic and encryption algorithms. This should be aligned with your needs and work environment requirements. USB-powered readers are the most commonly chosen models due to their safety. Alternatives include innovative electromagnetic field-powered models or older battery-powered solutions. For USB-powered readers, it’s worth investing in a USB-C adapter, as most devices use the older USB 2.0 interface.
Of course, available sets vary in price. It’s essential to choose products that fit your budget. High-quality readers can be purchased for around 100-120 PLN, while cryptographic cards range from 100-200 PLN. These prices provide models that meet high industry standards for quality and security and are ISO-compliant. If you have any doubts about your purchase, consulting an industry expert is advisable.
Cryptographic card and reader – summary
A set comprising a cryptographic card and reader allows for submitting a qualified signature securely and in a controlled manner. It is a key tool for protecting confidential data and securing it against information theft. Various card and reader types are available on the market, which should be tailored to your specific needs and applications. We recommend choosing products from reputable manufacturers such as Gemalto, ATOS, or FEITIAN.A cryptographic card and a reader are a set that enhances the security of electronic signature submission. Discover the potential applications of this set. In this article, we have gathered key information about them for you. You will learn what cryptographic cards and readers are, how such a set works, and which products are recommended by industry experts.
- What is a smart cryptographic card?
- What is a cryptographic card reader?
- How does a cryptographic card work with a reader?
- What to consider when choosing a cryptographic card and reader?
- Cryptographic card and reader – summary
- What is a smart cryptographic card?
- What is a cryptographic card reader?
- How does a cryptographic card work with a reader?
- What to consider when choosing a cryptographic card and reader?
- Cryptographic card and reader – summary
What is a smart cryptographic card?
According to a simple definition, a cryptographic card is a device used to secure an e-signature. This type of card comes with a reader. Confidential data required for the owner to sign electronically or perform another action requiring verification is stored on it. The device is designed to provide a high level of security through, among other things, data encryption and the generation of individual cryptographic keys.
Cryptographic cards are used in areas such as:
- qualified electronic signature,
- qualified electronic seal,
- electronic identity documents,
- public transport,
- payments and micro-payments,
- electronic passports,
- physical and logical access,
- transmission of other confidential data.
The main formats and types of cryptographic cards include:
- Smart Card – resembles a traditional ATM card,
- USB Token – a card connected to a computer or other device via a USB port,
- PCI and PCIe cards – installed directly in computers or servers,
- HSM cards – offer the highest standard of security and may take the form of internal cards or external modules.
Additionally, Smart Card cryptographic cards in the ISO/IEC 7816 format also include contactless devices. Their operation is based on NFC technology, allowing data transmission by simply bringing the card close to the reader, which communicates via radio waves.
One of the most popular models on the market is the Gemalto IDPrime 930nc Card. This is a contact card supporting PKI and OTP technologies. It is designed for use with the Source application, the Central Electoral Register, as well as for logging into Pobyt v.2 systems or traditional applications for a qualified electronic signature.
Another popular cryptographic card model is the ATOS CardOS v5.3. It is available in contact and contactless versions in large card or SIM card formats. This model meets the highest security standards and supports solutions such as RSA 4096, SHA 256, and AES 256.
What is a cryptographic card reader?
A cryptographic card reader is a small electronic device that reads information stored on cryptographic cards. The reader securely and encryptedly retrieves data from the card, protected by a cryptographic key. This solution is used in security systems, authentication systems, access control systems, and electronic signatures. Simply put, the device acts as an intermediary between the computer and the card, enabling data transmission.
Main types of readers
Currently, there are several basic types of cryptographic card readers, differing in design, functionality, and potential applications. These include:
- wireless sets,
- wired sets,
- contact sets – require card insertion,
- contactless sets (proximity) – operate on wireless RFID or NFC technology,
- hybrid sets (both contact and contactless),
- USB sets (USB readers, flash drives),
- embedded sets.
One of the most popular readers on the market is the FEITIAN R301-B9 USB Smart Card Reader in USB form. It supports SIM cards and complies with PC/SC and CCID standards, ensuring efficient data reading while maintaining high security.
Another frequently chosen reader is the Gemalto IDBridge CT30. This is a wired model in the form of a USB processor card reader. It can be used with various contact card types, making it ideal for use with desktop computers, such as in offices or banking sectors. It pairs perfectly with the previously mentioned 930nc card model.
How does a cryptographic card work with a reader?
The principle of operation for a cryptographic card and reader set is relatively simple. The user inserts the card into a contact reader or brings it close to a contactless reader, initiating a connection. After establishing the connection, access to the card must be authorized (PIN entry). Once authorized, the selected cryptographic operation can be performed using the data stored in the card’s microprocessor. This includes user authentication, data encryption, and decryption using cryptographic keys on the device. Finally, the action (e.g., qualified signature) is processed and confirmed.
This set is most commonly used for submitting a qualified signature to authenticate users. This applies to logging into electronic systems or submitting official documents. Additionally, cryptographic cards are used in contactless payments (NFC technology), access control systems (e.g., to restricted zones), electronic tickets, etc. However, it is commonly used for Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES).
What to consider when choosing a cryptographic card and reader?
Typically, the card and reader come as a set. Selecting the right set is crucial and requires careful analysis of the products available on the market. Key considerations include compliance with current regulations and ISO security standards to ensure the highest level of security.
Another important aspect is the card’s cryptographic support. Different models support various cryptographic and encryption algorithms. This should be aligned with your needs and work environment requirements. USB-powered readers are the most commonly chosen models due to their safety. Alternatives include innovative electromagnetic field-powered models or older battery-powered solutions. For USB-powered readers, it’s worth investing in a USB-C adapter, as most devices use the older USB 2.0 interface.
Of course, available sets vary in price. It’s essential to choose products that fit your budget. High-quality readers can be purchased for around 100-120 PLN, while cryptographic cards range from 100-200 PLN. These prices provide models that meet high industry standards for quality and security and are ISO-compliant. If you have any doubts about your purchase, consulting an industry expert is advisable.
Cryptographic card and reader – summary
A set comprising a cryptographic card and reader allows for submitting a qualified signature securely and in a controlled manner. It is a key tool for protecting confidential data and securing it against information theft. Various card and reader types are available on the market, which should be tailored to your specific needs and applications. We recommend choosing products from reputable manufacturers such as Gemalto, ATOS, or FEITIAN.
