Getting started with OpenSC

Getting started with OpenSC

First you need to obtain and install OpenSC software. If the card you want to use is listed as a read-only card in the SupportedHardware list then you can skip the [wiki:CardPersonalization CardPersonalization] with pkcs15-init.

Eventually you will want to use your smart card with various applications. See ApplicationSupport for an incomplete list of supported applications.

SecurityConsiderations must be taken into account when using OpenSC.

If you get stuck with OpenSC and don’t find the answer from FrequentlyAskedQuestions, ask for help on opensc-user mailing list. If you think you have found a bug then please [/newticket report it] but remember – bug tracker is not a support forum. Use the mailing list if you are not sure.

Starting Points

• OverView – A short introduction what OpenSC is and how it fits into the big picture.
• Download the latest stable release of OpenSC.
• QuickStart – installation and basic steps to initialize a blank smart card.
• UsingOpensc – options when using OpenSC.
• PKCS#15 Initialization Guide with many small details
• PinpadReaders – are special because there was no standard for pinpads for a long time.
• ReplacingCertificates – does not work for all cards and is a bit tricky.
• TroubleShooting explains the most common problems and how to solve them.