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OpenPGP Keyserver
Port 11371 is primarily used by OpenPGP HTTP key servers, which facilitate the distribution, retrieval, and synchronization of public encryption keys. This enables a global infrastructure where users can upload or search for OpenPGP public keys to verify digital signatures, exchange secure messages, and support encrypted communication. These servers generally operate over HTTP, creating a public directory of keys to foster secure and trusted communications among users and services..
OpenPGP HTTP key servers operate on port 11371 to provide access points where users can publish or retrieve PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) public keys. These servers underpin web-of-trust models and facilitate the decentralized verification of digital identities through the distribution of cryptographic keys.
The server typically employs the HTTP Keyserver Protocol (HKP), which allows clients to submit queries or upload keys via standard HTTP requests. This protocol is designed to be lightweight, interoperable, and broadly accessible, encouraging widespread adoption for secure communications. Since HKP requests run over HTTP by default (unencrypted), keys are transmitted in plaintext unless layered over TLS-enabled proxies or tunnels.
OpenPGP key servers also support key synchronization with other servers, helping to maintain a broadly distributed and redundant key directory infrastructure worldwide. This synchronization improves key availability and resilience, though it can make key revocation management challenging due to propagation delays.