KeyManagement

Key management is the set of processes and technologies for handling cryptographic keys. It encompasses key generation, storage, distribution, use, rotation, revocation, archival, and destruction for both symmetric and asymmetric keys. The goal is to ensure keys are created with sufficient entropy, protected from disclosure, and used only by authorized entities within defined policies.

Key lifecycle management includes generating keys, securely provisioning them to cryptographic operations, storing them in protected hardware or software keystores, rotating keys on schedules or after suspected compromise, revoking compromised keys, archiving old keys for audit, and securely destroying keys when no longer needed.

Key material is often protected by hardware security modules or secure elements; cloud providers offer KMS solutions. Envelope encryption uses a data key to encrypt data, and a master key protects the data key.

Key distribution and usage rely on secure channels, standards-based protocols, and access controls. Public-key infrastructures facilitate distribution and verification of asymmetric keys and certificates; symmetric keys rely on established key exchange methods and authentication.

Governance, risk management, and compliance underpin key management. Organizations implement policies, role-based access controls, separation of duties, auditing and logging, and incident response for key compromise. Standards such as NIST SP 800-57, ISO/IEC 27001, and FIPS 140-2/3 guide design and validation.

Effective key management reduces risk of data exposure, supports cryptographic agility, and enables scalable security in on-premises, hybrid, and cloud environments.