Imagine if we never had security in the world. If our apps,bank account and any other key information wasn't secured- that would be a big mess. The need to create a secure medium which allows to store and protect our data without fear is needed, and security extends to the Hive community and we call it the Hive Keys

![IMG_20220105_135456.jpg](https://images.hive.blog/DQmVkVbRuyk4cP4cXwWhNMZjDscjDVt4jTkpc5UdQrvpHGB/IMG_20220105_135456.jpg)

IMPORTANCE OF HIVE KEYS
In as much as we are keen on original content creation and engagements, our security on the blog is top priority, without our hive keys we would be denied access into the blog. The hive keys is a combination of alphabet and numerics creating a very long password which would secure an access for the user.

HOW TO LOCATE THE SECURITY KEYS ON HIVE.
The following steps are needed to be followed
Step One: Sign in to your account, tap on profile then click on wallet

![2022_02_07_20.32.05.jpg](https://images.hive.blog/DQmSi4DRajwNoXTt5kwrrUXcCGqeNHHnrqgpnL5sRBZnh57/2022_02_07_20.32.05.jpg)

Step two: Tap on keys and permission

![2022_02_07_20.31.34.jpg](https://images.hive.blog/DQmd5i2TrmL94cKGrPDepGzRiujPbbBixJxQAizALSnDTK3/2022_02_07_20.31.34.jpg)

Step three: Tap on any of the four keys and press reveal to see the keys

![2022_02_07_20.31.45.jpg](https://images.hive.blog/DQmbxbx21LMcZfw9kkhLs8M5gM6Q7keMXZdd1Q13cKUJCxj/2022_02_07_20.31.45.jpg)

FUNCTION OF EACH HIVE KEYS
A proper understanding of what each or any of the hive key signifies would be key in stay on Hive
1. Posting Key: It is described as one of the most popular keys, it is responsible for posting, voting and commenting. It is essential for enabling us create our post and engage with other people

2.Active Key is the second in line to the other keys and it is used for monetary transactions. Except for owner's key upgrade, the active key has access to the account.

3. Owner key is a very special type of key. Just like the name sounds,it gives you absolute control of your hive account

4. Memo Key is the last on the list and it is used for private messaging,to encrypt and decrypt private messages sent or received on hive.

MEASURES OF PROTECTING YOUR KEYS
1. The Hive Keys was created solely for yourself, hence it should be only for yourself. Sharing keys around would only give access to anyone

2. Avoid pasting your hive keys on unverified links, we must ensure we verify the links we tap on before insert the hive keys

3. The use of copying hive keys on our important notes is important too, just incase our gmails are hacked

I wish to appreciate @gone-hive for rendering a helping hand in referring me to the community.