An explanation of how a 2048-bit RSA encryption key is created
Ready for something really nerdy? Here you go. I saw this video over at BoingBoing and couldn't stop thinking about how amazing this whole setup really is. It explains in some detail the creation of a 2048-bit RSA encryption key for a major new piece of internet infrastructure.
The process involves people from Verisign, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and ICANN coming together in a physical room, having the entire process videotaped, and everybody leaving with a part of key (but not the whole key) -- either physical or digital -- in their possession. There are so many fail-safes in place in this process that it somewhat resembles a spy movie. Makes sense though. Watch and learn!