A plurality of storage location numbers ("SLNs"), each having a
cryptographic period, is received at a first device (100). A system
cryptographic period is determined based on the SLN cryptographic
periods. Prior to expiration of each system cryptographic period, if at
least one SLN requires an updated, the first device sends updated key
material for the at least one SLN. A second device (102) maintains first,
second, and third keysets, wherein the first and second keysets comprise
key material. The second device receives a message to make the first
keyset active, and a second message for updating at least a portion of
the key material in the second keyset with updated key material for at
least one SLN. The second device makes the third keyset equivalent to the
second keyset, updates the second keyset with the updated key material,
and receives a third message to make the second keyset active.