KeyGen

KeyGen is short for key generator. The term is used in several contexts within information security and software distribution. In general, a key generator is any process or tool that produces cryptographic keys or license keys used to activate software.

In cryptography, a key generation process creates material that will be used for encryption, decryption, signing, or authentication. Keys must be produced from high-quality entropy to avoid predictability. Symmetric keys (such as for AES) are typically 128, 192, or 256 bits long. Asymmetric keys (for algorithms like RSA or ECC) have variable lengths and are derived from specific mathematical foundations. Modern standards emphasize randomness, determinism in key derivation, and secure storage. The key generation stage is part of the broader key management lifecycle, which also includes distribution, usage policies, rotation, revocation, and destruction. Hardware security modules and trusted platform modules are often used to generate and protect keys. Compliance frameworks such as NIST SP 800-90A and FIPS 140-2/3 provide guidance on acceptable RNGs and key sizes.

In software licensing, the term KeyGen is sometimes used to refer to tools that generate activation keys or serial numbers intended to unlock a product without proper authorization. Such tools are typically illegal and may violate software licenses and laws. Reputable software products increasingly rely on online verification, hardware-based binding, and license servers to reduce the effectiveness of such tools. Users should avoid illicit KeyGen tools and obtain software through legitimate channels.

KeyGen concepts are also involved in broader topics such as key exchange, key derivation, and secure key storage, all of which are fundamental to modern cryptographic systems.