Principle:Apache Kafka GPG Prerequisite Verification
| Knowledge Sources | |
|---|---|
| Domains | Release_Engineering, Security |
| Last Updated | 2026-02-09 12:00 GMT |
Overview
A verification process that ensures cryptographic signing prerequisites are met before initiating a software release.
Description
GPG Prerequisite Verification confirms that the release manager has a valid GPG signing key available locally and that the associated passphrase is functional. This is a critical gate at the start of any Apache release process because all artifacts must be cryptographically signed. Without valid GPG credentials, the release cannot proceed. The verification involves checking key existence in the local GPG keyring and testing the passphrase by performing a trial sign-and-verify cycle.
Usage
Use this principle at the very beginning of a release workflow, before any artifacts are built or signed. It prevents wasted effort by failing fast if GPG credentials are missing or incorrect.
Theoretical Basis
The verification follows a two-step validation pattern:
- Key Existence Check: Query the local GPG keyring to confirm the specified key ID is present.
- Passphrase Validation: Perform a trial signature on a known file, then verify the signature, confirming end-to-end signing capability.
This pattern ensures both the key material and the passphrase are functional, catching issues such as expired keys, locked keyrings, or incorrect passphrases.