Question 1

What is KeyLab?

Accepted Answer

KeyLab is a platform built for payment security professionals. It includes 50+ cryptographic tools — such as PIN Block calculators, LUHN validators, TLV/EMV parsers, XOR calculators, 3DES/AES encryption, DUKPT key derivation, and an interactive HSM simulator — available via browser, CLI, and desktop app.

Question 2

Are the tools free to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes! KeyLab offers 5 free tools with no account required: Data Converter, PIN Block Calculator (ISO 9564 Format 0), LUHN Validator, XOR Calculator, and TLV/EMV Parser. You also get 10 free premium operations per day. Upgrading to KeyLab Tools unlocks 50+ tools with unlimited operations.

Question 3

What is a PIN Block and how does the calculator work?

Accepted Answer

A PIN Block is an encrypted block of data used to securely transmit PINs in payment systems. KeyLab's PIN Block calculator supports ISO 9564 Format 0, letting you calculate and reverse PIN Blocks by entering the PIN and PAN (Primary Account Number). It shows each step of the process for educational purposes.

Question 4

What is the LUHN algorithm and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

The LUHN algorithm (also called Modulus 10) is a checksum formula used to validate credit card numbers, IMEI numbers, and other identification numbers. KeyLab's LUHN Validator checks whether a number passes the LUHN test and shows each calculation step, helping payment developers debug card validation issues.

Question 5

What cryptographic operations does KeyLab support?

Accepted Answer

KeyLab supports a wide range of payment cryptography operations including: PIN Block (ISO 9564), DUKPT key derivation, 3DES and AES encryption/decryption, Post-Quantum Cryptography (ML-KEM, ML-DSA, SLH-DSA), CVV/CVC generation and validation, key management (KEK, ZMK, ZPK), EMV scripting, MAC calculation, RSA operations, Brazilian Payment System (SPB/PIX), and Thales payShield 10K HSM command simulation.

Question 6

What is the HSM Simulator?

Accepted Answer

KeyLab's HSM Simulator is an interactive emulator of the Thales payShield 10K Hardware Security Module. It lets you practice real HSM host commands (like NC, A0, BU, FA) with actual cryptographic algorithms — no physical hardware required. It is ideal for learning, testing, and development.

Question 7

Can I use KeyLab in my CI/CD pipeline?

Accepted Answer

Yes! KeyLab offers a CLI tool installable via npm (npm install keylab) and a REST API for Enterprise plans. You can integrate cryptographic operations directly into your scripts, automated tests, and CI/CD pipelines.

Question 8

What is the KPCS certification?

Accepted Answer

KPCS (KeyLab Payment Cryptography Specialist) is a professional certification for payment security engineers. It validates your knowledge of PIN security, key management, EMV, HSM operations, and payment cryptography. Available as a proctored online exam with a Credly digital badge upon passing.

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