In a hierarchical public key infrastructure (PKI), a certificate authority (CA) whose certificate signing key is certified by another CA, and whose activities are constrained by that other CA. See superior certification authority. Source: CNSSI No. 1300
Understand more election terms clearly
Get one important election term explained each week, with authoritative sources, practical context and related definitions.
In a hierarchical public key infrastructure (PKI), a certificate authority (CA) whose certificate signing key is certified by another CA, and whose activities are constrained by that other CA. See superior certification authority. Source: CNSSI No. 1300
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Subordinate Certificate Authority. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/subordinate-certificate-authority
Sources
01
Single-source
Get the weekly election term
Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.