Which defines asymmetric encryption?

• A. Relies on a shared secret key
• B. Encrypts with a single public key only
• C. Uses a public/private key pair
• D. Is faster than symmetric encryption

Answer: (C)

Asymmetric encryption relies on a public/private key pair. The public key can be shared openly so others can encrypt data or verify a signature, while the private key stays with the owner to decrypt or sign. This setup removes the need for a shared secret between parties, which is what symmetric encryption requires. The other statements don’t define asymmetric encryption: using a shared secret key describes symmetric approaches; encrypting with a public key alone omits the essential role of the private key for decryption or signing; and being faster than symmetric encryption is not a defining trait—asymmetric methods are typically slower and are often used to securely exchange keys that symmetric encryption then uses for fast data protection.