What do key distribution protocols achieve?

Key distribution protocols play a crucial role in the realm of cryptography, focusing specifically on the secure exchange of cryptographic keys between parties. The primary objective of these protocols is to ensure that keys used for encryption and decryption are distributed safely and in a manner that prevents unauthorized access or eavesdropping.

The correct answer highlights that these protocols are designed to securely distribute cryptographic keys to users. This is fundamental because the security of encrypted communications relies heavily on the confidentiality and integrity of the keys themselves. Further, if the key distribution process is compromised, the security of the entire system can be undermined, leading to potential breaches.

Other options might address aspects of cryptographic systems or network security but do not accurately capture the specific focus of key distribution protocols. While secure communication is vital, it is not the direct result of the protocols themselves; rather, it is a consequence of using the keys that these protocols facilitate. Management of software keys and maintaining a database of keys are related tasks but fall under different operational procedures, making them outside the primary function of key distribution protocols.