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What is Password Authenticated Connection Establishment (PACE)?

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Max

Created: August 1, 2025

Updated: August 18, 2025


What is Password Authenticated Connection Establishment (PACE)?#

Password Authenticated Connection Establishment (PACE) is a secure communication protocol used primarily in electronic identification documents such as ePassports and national ID cards. It authenticates users through a shared secret (like a PIN or password) and establishes encrypted, secure communication between the document and a card reader. Key aspects of Password Authenticated Connection Establishment (PACE) include:

  • Mutual authentication (both card and reader verify each other’s identity)
  • Encrypted data exchange to prevent eavesdropping
  • Protection against common attacks (e.g., brute force, man-in-the-middle) PACE meets international standards (ICAO Doc 9303), ensuring interoperability and high-level security across various applications, such as border control, government services, and secure access systems.

Key Takeaways:

  • Password Authenticated Connection Establishment securely establishes encrypted communication between electronic IDs and readers.
  • Protects personal and biometric data in ePassports and national ID cards.
  • Provides mutual authentication, preventing unauthorized access and interception.

How Password Authenticated Connection Establishment Works#

Password Authenticated Connection Establishment (PACE) is a cryptographic protocol designed to provide secure, encrypted communication between electronic identity documents (like ePassports or electronic ID cards) and card readers. The communication process typically involves:

  • Initiation: The reader initiates contact with the eID or ePassport.
  • Secret Entry: The cardholder provides a PIN or password known only to them.
  • Mutual Authentication: Both the electronic document and the reader verify each other’s authenticity through cryptographic methods, ensuring neither party is being impersonated.
  • Secure Channel Setup: Once authentication is successful, an encrypted channel is established for secure data transmission, safeguarding information from potential attackers.

Advantages of Using PACE#

Implementing PACE offers multiple benefits in digital identity verification:

  • Enhanced Security: Prevents interception of sensitive personal data through strong encryption and mutual authentication, effectively protecting against common cyber threats.
  • Compliance and Interoperability: Follows international standards (ICAO Doc 9303), facilitating global compatibility in electronic identity verification processes.
  • Strong Privacy: Limits data access strictly to authenticated and authorized devices, preserving user privacy.

Typical Applications of PACE#

Password Authenticated Connection Establishment (PACE) is widely used across several scenarios, including:

  • ePassports: Ensuring secure and efficient border control through secure verification of travelers’ biometric data.
  • National ID Cards (eIDs): Facilitating secure online government services and digital transactions.
  • Secure Facility Access: Providing encrypted and authenticated access controls for sensitive facilities and corporate environments.

Integrating PACE with Modern Authentication#

PACE can be integrated with passkey-based solutions to enhance digital security further. Passkeys eliminate traditional passwords, leveraging PACE’s secure infrastructure to create seamless, passwordless user experiences. Integrating these technologies results in:

  • Improved protection against identity fraud and unauthorized access.
  • A streamlined authentication experience without compromising security.
  • Compliance with stringent security and privacy standards required by governments and enterprises.

Password Authenticated Connection Establishment FAQs#

What does Password Authenticated Connection Establishment (PACE) do?#

PACE establishes encrypted, authenticated communication between electronic identification documents and readers, safeguarding personal and biometric information.

Why is PACE used in electronic passports and ID cards?#

PACE ensures secure mutual authentication and encrypted data exchange, preventing unauthorized access, eavesdropping, and data interception.

What do I need for PACE authentication to work?#

You need an electronic identity document (ePassport or eID), a card reader, and a PIN or password known only to the document holder.

Is PACE internationally recognized?#

Yes, Password Authenticated Connection Establishment complies with international standards like ICAO Doc 9303, widely adopted for secure identity verification globally.

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