North Carolina's Balance of State Homeless Management Information System

What is PKI?

There is some confusion about PKI and why it is important for the security of client data in the Carolina Homeless Information Network. First off, the data in the network is already secure using industry-standard encryption technology. PKI is an added layer of security and one that HUD began recommending to networks last year. PKI is an acronym for Public Key Infrastructure. The technology is called Public Key because it works with a pair of keys. One of the two keys can be used to encrypt information that can only be decrypted with the other key. One key is made public and the other is kept secret. The secret key is usually called the private key. Since anyone can obtain the public key, users can initiate secure communications without having to previously share a secret through some other medium with their correspondent. The Infrastructure is the underlying system needed to issue keys and certificates and to publish the public information.

 

How long will it take to update my computer?

Using the step-by-step installation instructions it only takes a minute to add PKI to your computer. You can either follow the instructions sent to you by your regional coordinator via e-mail or you can install the certificate manually. To install the certificate manually first download the PKI-CHIN Client to your computer. This client will help you install the security certificate. You will also need to log into the CHIN network using your current username and password and check the "Newsflash" on the right side of the screen for the certificate password. The PKI-CHIN Client will prompt you for this password. Next, follow the installation guide steps to completion. It's that easy.

 

Can I install PKI on more than one computer?

Yes, you can install the certificate on more than one computer; however, we ask that you only install the certificate on computers that are used to access the network.

 

Is technical assistance available to help me install PKI ?

Absolutely. Call Rob, Holly, Mike or Sonia to arrange for individualized assistance.

 

What is the deadline for installing PKI ?

You have until July 1, 2008 to install PKI on your computer. After that date, you will not be able to access the network with only your username and password.

 

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