Secure server using public key registration and methods of operation

A method for use in establishing a secure exchange of information between an end user and a server in a distributed network environment, the method comprising the steps of:

• in accordance with a network-based controller associated with the server, the controller;
• controlling one or more secure areas accessible by one or more authenticated entities for storing data and for executing one or more processes;
• interacting with a registration authority, via one of the secure areas, for registering to obtain certification information for use by the end user in establishing a secure exchange of information between the end user and the server, wherein the secure area through which the controller and the registration authority interact is operative to execute a registration process for use in registering the end user to obtain the certification information;
• and
• interacting with a certification authority, via one of the secure areas, for obtaining the certification information, wherein the secure area through which the controller and the certification authority interact is operative to execute a certification process for use in at least one of issuing, renewing and revoking the certification information.

An article of manufacture for use in establishing a secure exchange of information between an end user and a server in a distributed network environment, comprising a machine readable medium containing one or more programs which when executed implement the steps of:

• in accordance with a network-based controller associated with the server, the controller:
• controlling one or more secure areas accessible by one or more authenticated entities for storing data and for executing one or more processes;
• interacting with a registration authority, via one of the secure areas, for registering to obtain certification information for use by the end user in establishing a secure exchange of information between the end user and the server, wherein the secure area through which the controller and the registration authority interact is operative to execute a registration process for use in registering the end user to obtain the certification information;
• and
• interacting with a certification authority, via one of the secure areas, for obtaining the certification information, wherein the secure area through which the controller and the certification authority interact is operative to execute a certification process for use in at least one of issuing, renewing and revoking the certification information.