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A "key" in computing has multiple meanings: a button on a keyboard, a unique identifier in a database for sorting and linking data, or a piece of data for cryptographic operations like encryption and decryption. The specific meaning depends on the context, such as whether the term is used to describe a physical input device or a logical concept for data management or security.

Keyboard key A physical button on a computer keyboard used to input characters, numbers, or commands.

Examples include letter keys (like 'A'), number keys, function keys (\(F1-F12\)), and special keys like the Windows key or Tab key. 

Database key: A field or combination of fields used to identify, sort, and access records in a database table.

Primary key: A unique value that identifies each record in a table.

Foreign key: A key that links a record in one table to a record in another table. Keys are used to speed up data retrieval and establish relationships between tables.

Cryptographic key: A string of bits used with an algorithm to encrypt and decrypt data. The key is a parameter that determines the specific transformation applied to the data.

Public-key cryptography: Uses two related keys: a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption. A longer key is generally more secure because it is more difficult to crack.