In the digital world, there's a need for means to identify people and systems, authenticate and ensure the trust in and integrity and confidentiality of messages and transactions. This can be achieved with the application of digital signatures, time stamps and the use of encrypted messages and encrypted connections to websites. To realize these security features, digital certificates are used. The following standard services of the TSP can be identified when issuing and managing certificates:
- Registration Service - verifies the identity of the subject
- Certificate Generation Service - creates and signs certificates based on the identity of the subject
- Dissemination Service - publish certificate information and policies
- Subject Device Provision Service – personalize smart cards and smart card distribution
- Revocation Status Service - provides certificate revocation status information to relying parties
- Revocation Management Service - processes requests and reports relating to revocation to determine the necessary action to be taken
