RF Encryption
RF encryption is transforming the payload part of the packet with a key so that anyone who does not know the key cannot read the content. Encoding and encryption are not the same thing: encoding only formats the data, encryption provides confidentiality. For a secure link, authentication and replay protection are also needed alongside encryption.
Three concepts frequently confused in product descriptions need to be separated:
- Encoding: converts data into a transportable form. Fixed code encoders are in this group and provide no confidentiality.
- Encryption: prevents reading without the key. It hides the content, but on its own it does not prevent the packet from being replayed.
- Authentication: proves that the packet really came from an authorised transmitter; a modified packet is rejected.
A sound remote control link uses all three together and adds a fresh counter or session value. On the AXI side, for the XRF protocol of the HCT400 and HCT402 sets, the dump data states an end-to-end encrypted data channel, bidirectional acknowledgement and session authentication with a unique pairing identity per device. When comparing products, looking at these verifiable items is sounder than unprovable claims such as unbreakable.
Context in which this term is used: Wireless remote control installation: pairing, relay, safety