Key Management

Key management is a set of practices and rules that ensure the safe use of cryptographic keys. Proper management ensures a key stays safe throughout its lifecycle, from generation and use to storing and deletion.

A cryptographic key is a file that contrails a string of letters and numbers that can encrypt and decrypt data when processed by a crypto algorithm. The main goal of key management is to keep these files away from unauthorized users and systems.

Why is Key Management Important

A key is similar to a safe combination: no safe can stop the thief if a perpetrator knows how to unlock the vault. Similarly, poor key management can make even the best encryption algorithm worthless. A compromised key allows an attacker to:

Convert encrypted data back to its original, plaintext form.
Take the entire security infrastructure down.
Act as a privileged user and access different systems and databases.
Sign apps in your name.

Proper key management guarantees high levels of security around encrypted data and ensures:

That only authorized users can read or access data.
Safe transfers of data across the Internet and private networks.
That different cyberattack types cannot easily spy, infect, or spread through your systems.