Tokyo Institute of Technology IC cards
Contents
1. UPKI authentication
Tokyo Institute of Technology IC cards feature embedded certificates for electronic identification purposes. These certificates enable identification via the PKI authentication method, which is the precursor to the UPKI authentication system slated to serve as the standard authentication method for universities across Japan. Given its broad scope in serving as a common basis for universities nationwide, the system needs to be stricter and more rigorous than conventional setups. This means that the system enforces many restrictions. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
*UPKI: University Public Key Infrastructure
2. How IC cards work
On the back side of every Tokyo Institute of Technology IC card are an IC chip and a matrix code. Below is some information on these IC card components.
IC chip
An IC chip contains the following information, which provides the basis for performing identification procedures via an IC card reader, etc.
- Public key/electronic certificate:
- A public key/electronic certificate is an electronic key used during encrypted communications. Each public key forms a pair with a private key, making it impossible to decrypt public key-encrypted data without the corresponding private key. During a transmission, the user provides a public key to the system, which then uses the public key to encrypt the transmission. The electronic certificate proves to the system that the provided public key belongs to a valid user, preventing other parties from impersonating real users.
- Private key:
- A private key is a user-specific electronic key used during encrypted communications. This makes it impossible to decrypt public key-encrypted data without the corresponding private key. Users thus need to make sure that they do not disclose their private keys to others.
- PIN code:
- A PIN code is a security code that ensures IC card security by preventing the information on an IC chip against unauthorized usage.
Matrix code
Matrix codes allow users to access the Tokyo Institute of Technology Portal via matrix code authentication. (The "Matrix code table" on the IC card types page refers to a matrix code table printed on a plastic card.)
3. Using an IC card
Tokyo Institute of Technology IC cards let users access the Tokyo Institute of Technology information infrastructure, enter/leave certain buildings, borrow books from the library, and use devices like automatic certificate issuing machines.
Accessing the Tokyo Institute of Technology information infrastructure
You can use an IC card reader or the matrix code on the back of your IC card to access to the information infrastructure. Once you have successfully completed the authentication process for the Portal, you can access Portal-integrated systems whenever you want without having to re-authenticate yourself. See the Available services page for more information on the services currently available on the Portal.
Entering/leaving buildings with an electronic key
IC cards serve as electronic keys to certain buildings. To unlock one of these buildings, simply hold your IC card up to the building's IC card reader. Access to some buildings requires a PIN code.
Using other compatible equipment and devices
Your IC card and PIN code also give you access to library equipment, automatic certificate issuing machines, and other devices.