8.2.4 Key Derivation Methods
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Title
Key Derivation Methods
Control
Cryptographic keys may be derived from a secret value. The secret value, together with other information, is input into a key-derivation method (e.g., a key-derivation function) that outputs the required key(s). In contrast to key change (as discussed in Section 8.2.3 ), the derived keys are often used for new purposes, rather than for replacing the secret values from which they are derived. The derivation method shall be non-reversible (i.e., a one-way function) so that the secret value cannot be determined from the derived keys. In addition, it shall not be possible to determine a derived key from other derived keys. It should be noted that the strength of a derived key is no greater than the strength of the derivation algorithm and the secret value from which the key is derived. Three commonly used key-derivation cases are discussed below.