Smart cards play an increasing role as 'active' security devices. Due to its microcomputer and programmable memory, a smart card can cater for the specific needs of the environment it is used in. Smart cards allow the secure handling and storage of sensitive data such as user privileges and cryptographic keys as well as the execution of cryptographic algorithms. They are secure tokens by means of which a user can be identified and authenticate a computer system or communication network and vice versa. This paper provides a comprehensive introduction into the features of chip cards, the principals of their operating system, their life-cycle and the standards governing them. It also includes a brief discussion of major applications and an outlook on the future development.
['Klaus Vedder', 'Franz Weikmann']
Smart Cards - Requirements, Properties, and Applications