Checking signed messages without a public key: Understand Bitcoin-QT’s signature verification function
When you send the signed messages via Bitcoin with the help of Bitcoin-QT software, one of the general concerns is that how to check that the message was actually sent by the planned signator without access to the public key. In this article we are immersed in the Bitcoin-QT signature verification feature and explores its functionality.
What is the signature in Bitcoin?
In bitcoin, the signature is not as “public key” as in other cryptographic systems. Instead, this is an algorithmic solution created by the sender that proves the ownership of the message. The process involves clearing of the message, producing a hash of the sender’s public key, and signing the resulting hash with their private key.
How do you sign Bitcoin-QT messages?
Bitcoin-qt uses the ECDSA (elliptical curve digital signature algorithm) algorithm to sign the messages. This algorithm is widely used in modern cryptography because of its efficiency, scalability and safety. Here is a high level of overview of how it works:
- Message Preparation : The sender prepares his message using the Bitcoin-Qt “Deterministic Hash Function”. This process creates an input string used to make the signature.
- Key Generation : The sender generates a pair of cryptographic keys including:
* A private key (also known as seed or entry point): This is used to sign messages and check identities.
* Public key: This is what anyone can use to send a signed message back to the sender.
The signature process
To create a signature, the sender follows these steps:
- HASH Input : The sender subtracts their input message using the deterministic hash function.
- HASH Public Key : The sender subtracts the public key using the algorithm used to sign the messages.
- Combine hashok : The sender combines the hashed input and the public key to produce a single input string, which is then signed with the private key.
Signature check in Bitcoin-QT
To check that the planned signator has actually sent a signed message without access to the public key, using a combination of Bitcoin-QT cryptographic techniques:
- HASH Control : The sender subtracts the signature and checks to match the expected hash, which is combined with the Hashed input and the public key.
- Signature Control
: If the check passes, the sender may be sure that the message was signed by the planned signator.
Conclusion
In summary, Bitcoin-QT’s signature check function uses a combination of hash algorithms and cryptographic keys to ensure the authenticity and integrity of signed messages. By creating a pair of keys (private and public) and using messaging, Bitcoin-QT provides an effective and secure method for checking identities and signatures without relying on a public keychain.
This service is particularly useful in scenarios, where access to public keys is limited or implemented. It is essential to note, however, that there are limits to this approach and may be inadequate for all cases of use.