A 3DS Server is a crucial component within the 3-D Secure (3DS) protocol, acting as the central functional interface between different parts of the system.
Role and Responsibilities
At its core, the 3DS Server provides the functional interface between the DS (Directory Server) and the 3DS Requestor Environment flows. This means it facilitates communication and data exchange necessary for authenticating a cardholder during an online transaction.
Its responsibilities are multifaceted and critical for the security and operation of the 3DS process. According to the reference, the 3DS Server is responsible for:
- Gathering necessary data elements for 3-D Secure messages: Collecting the required information from various sources to construct the messages exchanged during authentication.
- Authenticating the DS: Verifying the identity and validity of the Directory Server it communicates with.
- Validating the DS, the 3DS SDK, and the 3DS Requestor: Ensuring the integrity and authenticity of the Directory Server, the software development kit used by the merchant's application, and the merchant environment itself.
- Safeguarding the message contents: Protecting the sensitive data transmitted within the 3-D Secure messages from unauthorized access or modification.
In essence, the 3DS Server plays a vital role in orchestrating the authentication process by collecting data, validating participants, and securing the communication channels required for a 3-D Secure transaction to occur successfully.
