Can an end user utilize an intermediary for authentication without prior approval from the RA/LRA?

In a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), end users typically cannot utilize an intermediary for authentication without prior approval from the Registration Authority (RA) or Local Registration Authority (LRA). The role of the RA/LRA is crucial for ensuring the integrity and reliability of the authentication process. They are responsible for verifying the identity of users and managing the issuance of digital certificates.

Allowing end users to authenticate through intermediaries without prior approval could lead to a significant security risk. It could result in unauthorized access, as there would be no oversight or vetting of the intermediary's legitimacy. This process is in place to maintain the trustworthiness of the PKI framework, ensuring that all elements involved in the authentication process have been properly vetted and approved.

With this in mind, the necessity for prior approval from the RA/LRA emphasizes the importance of maintaining strict control over authentication channels, highlighting a fundamental principle of PKI: the need for trust and verification at every step to protect digital identities and maintain secure communications.