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Phase-shift keying

(also PSK, phase modulation)

Phase-shift keying definition

Phase-shift keying (PSK) is a digital modulation technique that transmits digital data over a carrier wave. It ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of digital data transmitted over communication channels. Phase-shift keying converts the data into a stream of PSK-modulated signals that the receiver afterward gets. PSK is often used in secure communication protocols such as SSL/TLS and IPSec. PSK-based encryption is highly secure because it makes it challenging for hackers to intercept and abuse shared data. One of the most popular PSK-based encryption algorithms is AES. It combines PSK and other encrypting methods that keep data safe. Moreover, phase-shift keying has wide usage in various apps, such as online banking, IoT networks, and secure web browsing.

See also: ethical hacking, inference attack

Phase-shift keying usage

  • Wireless communication. PSK enables safe and reliable wireless communication because it encrypts digital data. It prevents hackers from interfering with Wi-Fi and cellular networks.
  • Online banking. Phase-shift keying is important for online banking because it protects confidential data, such as account numbers and passwords, by encrypting online banking transactions.
  • Secure web browsing. When visiting an HTTPS website, PSK encrypts the data, making it difficult for hackers to decode it and inject malicious codes. Also, the TLS protocol utilizes PSK to offer secure web browsing by hiding the data users transmit.
  • IoT security. PSK encrypts communication between devices in IoT networks, keeping confidential data like financial information and health records safe.