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SSCP · Question #579

In a hierarchical PKI the highest CA is regularly called Root CA, it is also referred to by which one of the following term?

The correct answer is B. Top Level CA. In a hierarchical PKI structure, the Root CA sits at the apex of the trust hierarchy and is also formally referred to as the Top Level CA. All other CAs in the hierarchy are Subordinate CAs (A), which derive their trust from the Root CA either directly or through intermediate…

Submitted by mateo_ar· Apr 18, 2026Cryptography

Question

In a hierarchical PKI the highest CA is regularly called Root CA, it is also referred to by which one of the following term?

Options

  • ASubordinate CA
  • BTop Level CA
  • CBig CA
  • DMaster CA

How the community answered

(57 responses)
  • A
    5% (3)
  • B
    89% (51)
  • C
    2% (1)
  • D
    4% (2)

Explanation

In a hierarchical PKI structure, the Root CA sits at the apex of the trust hierarchy and is also formally referred to as the Top Level CA. All other CAs in the hierarchy are Subordinate CAs (A), which derive their trust from the Root CA either directly or through intermediate CAs. The Root CA's certificate is self-signed, and it is the ultimate trust anchor for the entire PKI. 'Big CA' (C) and 'Master CA' (D) are not recognized standard PKI terminology. Understanding this hierarchy is important because the security of the entire PKI depends on protecting the Root CA's private key.

Topics

#PKI#Root CA#Certificate Authority#PKI hierarchy

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