An Overview of VBS Enclaves for Always Encrypted in Azure SQL Database Preview
Introduction
Microsoft Azure SQL Database provides the ability to encrypt data without having to manage keys, using the Always Encrypted feature. This feature allows users to protect sensitive data, such as credit card numbers and Social Security numbers, from unauthorized access. However, this feature does not protect the encryption key itself. To address this issue, Microsoft has recently released the preview of VBS Enclaves for Always Encrypted in Azure SQL Database.
What is VBS Enclaves for Always Encrypted?
VBS Enclaves for Always Encrypted is a new feature that provides an extra layer of security for the encryption keys used in Always Encrypted. It protects the encryption keys from being exposed to the database administrator and other privileged users who have access to the database. This is accomplished by storing the encryption keys in a secure enclave, which is a secure, isolated environment within the database.
Benefits
The main benefit of VBS Enclaves for Always Encrypted is that it allows users to securely store encryption keys without having to manage them. This eliminates the need for users to manage encryption keys, which can be a tedious and time-consuming process. Additionally, the use of an enclave ensures that the encryption keys are protected from unauthorized access.
How Does it Work?
The process of using VBS Enclaves for Always Encrypted is relatively straightforward. When a user wants to encrypt data, the encryption key is stored in a secure enclave. When the user wishes to use the encryption key, they must first authenticate with the enclave. Once authenticated, the user can then use the encryption key to encrypt or decrypt data.
Conclusion
VBS Enclaves for Always Encrypted is a great way to add an extra layer of security to the encryption keys used in Always Encrypted. This allows users to protect their sensitive data without having to manage the encryption keys. Additionally, the use of an enclave ensures that the encryption keys are secure from unauthorized access.
References:
VBS enclaves for Always Encrypted in Azure SQL Database – preview
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1. Always Encrypted
2. VBS Enclave
3. Azure SQL
