Abstract: A secure-end-to-end communication system for electronic business system and method of operation, e.g., the Internet, includes a web server—vault controller having personal storage vaults in the controller for users, registration and certification authorities. Each personal vault runs programs on the controller under a unique UNIX user ID. Data storage is provided by the controller wherein the storage is owned by the same user ID assigned to the vault. A registration authority running as a software application in the controller processes requests to issue, renew and revoke digital certificates issued by a certification authority using two pairs of public-private keys. The registration authority interacts with the vault controller to decide whether an applicant qualifies to receive a digital certificate.

Abstract: A secure end-to-end communications system includes a vault controller based registration application for managing the issuance and administration of digital certificates for use in conducting electronic commerce in the system. The system includes an end user terminal and a registration authority terminal coupled to a vault controller through the system. A registration application executable in the controller utilizes SSL and dedicated vaults to process requests for digital certificates from end users on an automated or manual basis.