If you are wondering what encryption management is then you are probably not alone. It sounds like something really complex, but actually, once you dig into it – it makes sense and isn’t complicated at all.
What is An Encryption Key?
The chances are that you deal with encryption keys every day, even if you don’t realise it. For example, did you know that messages you send on Whatsapp are encrypted? In simple terms, this means that the messages reads fine to you and it reads fine to the person you send it to, but in the space between the two of you, the letters are scrambled up and changed. This means that if anyone was to hack a message you have sent, they simply wouldn’t be able to make sense of what had been said.
Although that is encryption in its very basic form, it is a good way of understanding what it means to have something encrypted. An encryption key is the term that covers what methods are used to scramble and unscramble the data that is sent. Depending on the method in which the data is sent & how private that needs to be, there are different encryption keys that can be implemented throughout the process. There are different keys that can be used and generally speaking the longer the key that is used, the harder it is for anyone to crack it.
What is Encryption Key Management?
We already know that there are different types and lengths of encryption key that can be used, so it makes sense that there is something in place & that can help to manage all of this. Encryption key management is the lifecycle that cryptographic keys go through. The steps of the management process include:
- Generating
- Using
- Storing
- Archiving
- Deleting
- Regenerating
It is important to consider all of these processes if you’re implementing any sort of encryption key process because it helps to make sure that the whole process is safe and secure. You’ll need to consider the lifecycle of each encryption key – generating the key, pre-activation, activating it, the key expiring, what happens next and then the destruction of the key. Key encryption management also covers who has access to these keys including generating and deleting them.
Choosing An Encryption Key Management Company
If you’re going to work with an encryption key management company then you need to make sure that they know what they’re doing. They will be used to the people who contact them only have basic knowledge so don’t be afraid to ask questions about what they can offer, to make sure that this matches what you need. They should be able to offer you services that help you store your encryption key services, offer database encryption and make sure that all of this is kept safe and secure. Remember, they are the experts so they should be able to talk you through exactly what they offer and how this matches exactly what you need, so never be afraid to reach out for their help and advice.
