Processes for generating, distributing, storing, rotating, and destroying cryptographic keys securely.
Key management encompasses all processes for handling cryptographic keys throughout their lifecycle—generation (creating strong keys), distribution (securely sharing keys), storage (protecting keys from theft), rotation (regularly changing keys), and destruction (securely disposing of old keys). Poor key management undermines encryption—stolen keys decrypt protected data; lost keys make data permanently inaccessible. Key Management Systems (KMS) and Hardware Security Modules (HSM) provide secure key management.
Why It Matters
The DSC Perspective:
Encryption is only as secure as key management. Store keys separately from encrypted data, rotate keys regularly, and maintain secure backup. Lost keys mean lost data; stolen keys mean exposed data.