System and method for configuring and managing resources on a multi-purpose integrated circuit card using a personal computer

This invention relates to integrated circuit (IC) cards, such as smart cards, PC cards, and the like, which are capable of being used for multiple different applications. This invention further relates to systems and methods for initializing, configuring, and managing various resources maintained on the IC cards. This invention also relates to the secure management and transportation of cryptographic-related resources, such as keys and certificates, from one location to another. A computerized system offers a uniform platform for conducting electronic transactions in multiple different environments. The system includes a portable, multi-purpose, integrated circuit (IC) card and complimentary computer software which enables access and management of resources maintained on the IC card. The software runs on a user's personal computer, empowering the user to initialize the IC card, configure the card with the resources that the user wants to maintain on the card, and to manage those resources. The software enables the user to generate private/public key pairs and establish or change passcodes for access to the card resources. The IC card itself provides the electronic vehicle for securely transporting the user's private keys and certificates without exposing them in plaintext form. The IC card is designed with enough processing capabilities to perform rudimentary cryptographic functions so that the private keys may be employed for signing or encryption without ever being released from the card.