Data encryption converts digital data into uninterpretable information. Encryption key management is the process of managing an organization’s unique encryption keys. There are two types of data encryption key techniques: asymmetric and symmetric keys. Managing encryption keys is difficult and requires best practice recommendations. All keys should expire to ensure effective key management.
Data encryption is a process of converting digital data into uninterpretable information. More advanced encryption algorithms require an encryption key to encrypt and decrypt digital data messages. Encryption key management is the process of managing an organization’s unique encryption keys. These keys are used in the encryption algorithm process. Typically a special key is created for each specific user group of an application.
There are currently two types of data encryption key techniques in cryptography science. These are asymmetric and symmetric keys. An asymmetric encryption key algorithm requires two keys, while a symmetric key algorithm requires only one key. Both of these forms of encryption key management are used today to encrypt and decrypt messages.
Asymmetric encryption is used by many strong encryption algorithms. This approach requires two unique keys for interpreting messages. The first key is used to encrypt a message, commonly referred to as a private key. A secondary key, known as a public key, is shared with message consumers. It is used as a key to decrypt the message. Both private and public keys have special unique values that allow for the creation of special codes to interpret encrypted messages.
Symmetric key cryptography uses only one key. This single key is used for both encryption and decryption of messages. Most encryption algorithms that use symmetric keys also include complex mathematical functions as a form of deterrence. This is because a single key can be obtained more easily by would-be intruders.
Managing encryption keys is one of the most difficult processes in data security. This is because it typically relies on people and company policies to be successful. An encryption key is similar to a safe key. Once this key is shared or lost, it can be used for malicious purposes.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is the US government body that maintains encryption algorithm standards. This group has created some best practice recommendations for managing encryption keys. These processes define the framework for creating, managing, and deactivating encryption keys within an organization.
One of the most important elements of effective key management is ensuring that all keys expire. A non-expiring key can be used indefinitely without the need for authentication. With typical attrition and employee turnover, this is a dangerous implementation. Most encryption keys expire every year. This provides an intrinsic security measure for encryption key management that will automatically disable keys on an annual basis.
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