A computer that issues a Kerberos-authenticated user a service ticket. This ticket contains the user's credentials.
In the Kerberos protocol, the central server, which includes the authentication server and the ticket-granting server. The KDC is sometimes referred to as the Kerberos server.
The Kerberos authentication protocol makes use of security keys (also called a ticket) by which access to network resources is controlled. The issuing of Kerberos tickets is effected by a KDC.
A service that issues Kerberos tickets, usually run on the same host as the Ticket Granting Server.
A network service that supplies tickets and temporary session keys.
A system that is authorized to transmit temporary session keys to principals (authorized users). Each session key is transmitted in encrypted form, using a master key that the key distribution shares with the target principal. See also: DSS, Encryption, Kerberos.
In cryptography, a key distribution center (KDC) is part of a cryptosystem intended to reduce the risks inherent in exchanging keys. KDCs often operate in systems within which some users may have permission to use certain services at some times and not at others.