In the hierarchical CA model, what is the role of intermediate CAs?

In the hierarchical Certificate Authority (CA) model, intermediate CAs serve a crucial function in the certificate issuance process. They are primarily responsible for issuing digital certificates directly to end entities, which are typically users, devices, or servers. This tiered structure enhances security and scalability; the root CA issues certificates to intermediate CAs, which are then empowered to manage certificates for lower levels in the hierarchy.

By delegating the task of issuing certificates to intermediate CAs, the system mitigates risks and limits the exposure of the root CA. If an intermediate CA were compromised, the root CA remains protected, allowing the overall trust structure to be maintained. This design allows for a more flexible and manageable approach to certificate distribution, enabling organizations to establish their own intermediate CAs while relying on a trusted root CA.

The other options do not accurately describe the specific role of intermediate CAs within the hierarchical CA model, which centers on their function of issuing certificates rather than cross-certifying with other providers, storing lists of CAs, or acting solely as root CAs issuing all certificates.