PRS User Keys

Before a device with an integrated PRS Security Module can receive and use the signal in space provided by the Galileo satellite system (primary channel), it is necessary to request, distribute, and load the set of operational keys. At the user's request, the CPA requests the primary keys from the Galileo Program Security Monitoring Centre (GSMC).

If the receiver is a dual-channel receiver that, in addition to the primary satellite navigation channel, uses the national secondary channel, it will also require secondary channel keys. Secondary channel keys are used to enable communication between a receiver and a Point of Control (POC) within the infrastructure, for sending commands and communicating position and status. Unlike primary channel keys, secondary channel keys are generated by the national secondary channel's own POCs. This is a strictly national process, and no interaction with the GSA infrastructure is required regarding these keys.

In this case of secondary channel keys, there are two options:

• Direct connection of the receiver to the POC-IS: In this case, a separate request for key generation and distribution is not necessary, as these are electronic keys whose generation and distribution are carried out automatically during the dual receiver registration phase in the system. In other words, the dual receiver registration request includes the automatic generation and distribution of the secondary channel keys, and this process is not applicable.
• Loading secondary channel keys using a key loader:: To execute this process, a request, distribution, and loading of the keys corresponding to the secondary channel are required.

To request these keys, you must use the "Key Request Form" through the Private Area of this website.