Always Encrypted

Always Encrypted is a Microsoft SQL Server feature that encrypts data at rest in the database, providing an additional layer of security to sensitive information stored in SQL Server databases. With Always Encrypted, data is encrypted before it is stored in the database, and it remains encrypted while it is stored and processed, even by privileged users who have access to the database. This helps protect data from unauthorized access, insider threats, and external attacks.

Benefits of Using Always Encrypted

There are several benefits to using Always Encrypted, including:

• Enhanced data security: Always Encrypted encrypts data at rest, making it inaccessible to unauthorized users, even if they have access to the database server.
• Protection from insider threats: Always Encrypted helps protect data from malicious insiders who may have access to the database and attempt to access sensitive information.
• Improved compliance: Always Encrypted can help organizations meet compliance requirements, such as those related to data protection and privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).
• Reduced risk of data breaches: By encrypting data at rest, Always Encrypted reduces the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive information.

How Always Encrypted Works

Always Encrypted uses a combination of encryption algorithms and key management techniques to protect data. The encryption process involves using a symmetric key to encrypt the data. This symmetric key is then encrypted using a public key, which is stored in the database. To decrypt the data, the private key corresponding to the public key must be used. This ensures that only authorized users who have access to the private key can decrypt and access the data.

Using Always Encrypted

Using Always Encrypted involves several steps, including: