System.Net.Security.CertificateSupport Namespace
Provides classes for supporting certificate operations within the .NET networking stack.
Summary
The System.Net.Security.CertificateSupport namespace contains types that are instrumental in managing and validating X.509 certificates for secure network communications. These classes enable developers to implement robust security features, such as authentication, encryption, and data integrity, for applications communicating over the network.
Classes
| Class | Description |
|---|---|
| X509Certificate | Represents an X.509 certificate. This is a foundational class for all certificate-related operations. |
| X509Certificate2 | Represents an X.509 certificate, including private key information. This class extends X509Certificate with additional properties and methods. |
| X509CertificateCollection | Represents a collection of X509Certificate objects. |
| X509Certificate2Collection | Represents a collection of X509Certificate2 objects. |
| X509Chain | Represents the path of certificates from the end-entity certificate to a trusted root certificate. |
| X509ChainElement | Represents a single certificate in an X.509 chain. |
| X509ChainPolicy | Specifies the policy used to build an X.509 chain. |
| X509Extension | Represents an X.509 extension. |
| X509RevocationMode | Specifies the mode used to check for certificate revocation. |
Key Concepts
- X.509 Certificates: Digital certificates used to verify the identity of parties involved in a network communication.
- Certificate Chains: A hierarchical structure of certificates, starting from an end-entity certificate and leading up to a trusted root certificate authority.
- Certificate Validation: The process of verifying the authenticity and integrity of a certificate to ensure it's trustworthy. This involves checking expiration dates, revocation status, and the validity of the signature chain.
- Certificate Store: A repository for managing digital certificates on a system.
Important: Proper handling of certificates is crucial for securing network communications. Always validate certificates before trusting them, and use appropriate cryptographic practices.