Understanding the extended public and private keys of Ethereum
When it comes to digital currencies such as Ethereum, understanding how it works can be complex, but it is essential for anyone who wants to participate or trading on these platforms. In this article, we will deepen what makes up an extended public key and a private key in the Ethereum network.
Extended public key (EPK)
The extended public key is a combination of public key and the blockchain code that defines the interaction with the Ethereum network. Essentially, it is the “brain” behind the wallet software, which allows users to store, send and receive ETER (ETH), cryptocurrency native of Ethereum.
An EPK usually consists of three main components:
- Public key
: This is the unique address associated with your Ethereum wallet, used to receive the ether.
- chain code (or gas code) : This is a set of instructions that defines how to execute transactions and interact with the Ethereum network. It is similar to an assembly language code, which tells the Ethereum computer how to perform specific actions, such as sending or receiving funds.
The chain code is written in a programming language called solidity, which is used to create smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain.
Extended private key (EPK)
While an extended public key contains both public and private keys, it is not exactly enough to say that the public key is “private”. The private key associated with an EPK is actually a digital signature, also known as
digital signature algorithm (DSA) or
ECDSA .
The DSA private key is used for safe communication between the wallet software and the Ethereum network. It is generated using a cryptographic -secured pseudorandom (CSPRF), such as RSA or elliptical curve cryptography.
In summary, an extended public key contains both the public key and the chain code, while the digital signature associated with it is actually a private key used for safe communication.
Key differences between EPK and DPK
To help you better understand this concept, highlight some key differences:
An extended public key (EPK) * includes both the public key and the chain code.
A digital signature (DS)
or private key (DPK) * is a separate entity that is generated using a safe cryptographic pseudorandom function.
In summary, while an extended public key contains both the public key and the chain code, it is not exactly enough to say that the private key associated with it is “private”. The digital signature, also known as DSK (digital signature key) or
Private key , is a separate entity used for safe communication. I hope this explanation will help clarify the concept of expanded public and private keys in Ethereum!