How are keys & data stored & managed in an HSM (2024)

FAQs

Do HSM store keys? ›

What is a HSM? HSM stands for Hardware Security Module, and is a very secure dedicated hardware for securely storing cryptographic keys. It can encrypt, decrypt, create, store and manage digital keys, and be used for signing and authentication. The purpose is to safeguard and protect sensitive data.

A hardware security module (HSM) is a physical computing device that safeguards and manages secrets (most importantly digital keys), performs encryption and decryption functions for digital signatures, strong authentication and other cryptographic functions.

Hardware security modules (HSMs) are hardened, tamper-resistant hardware devices that secure cryptographic processes by generating, protecting, and managing keys used for encrypting and decrypting data and creating digital signatures and certificates.

If you define the engine parameter, the certificate is stored at the HSM for the engine. Otherwise, it is stored on CM. If you configure a netHSM and multiple engines access the netHSM, any of the engines can be specified to run the request.

You should store your keys in a place that is isolated from the data they protect, and that has restricted access and strong encryption. Some options are hardware security modules (HSMs), cloud key management services (KMSs), or encrypted files or databases.

Key types and protection methods

Managed HSM supports RSA, EC, and symmetric keys.

Use the az keyvault create command to create a Managed HSM. This script has three mandatory parameters: a resource group name, an HSM name, and the geographic location. You need to provide following inputs to create a Managed HSM resource: A resource group where it will be placed in your subscription.

Types of Hardware Security Modules (HSMs)

There are two primary types of HSMs: general purpose and payment hardware security modules.

What is an example of a HSM? ›

For example, a company might use an HSM to secure trade secrets or intellectual property by ensuring only authorized individuals can access the HSM to complete a cryptography key transfer.

An HSM provides a secure environment for performing cryptographic operations, ensuring that sensitive data remains protected from unauthorized access. These devices are tamper-resistant, meaning they are built to withstand physical and virtual attacks, making them a highly secure option for managing cryptographic keys.

Keys and certificates are stored in keystores and truststores. Private keys and personal certificates are stored in keystores. Public keys and CA certificates are stored in truststores. A truststore is a keystore that by convention contains only trusted keys and certificates.

How long does an HSM certificate last? Usually 3 years from creation. How do I check the expiry date of my HSM certificate? Details of the expiration date can be found on the email sent to your Primary Security Contact (PSC) by the bank when your certificate was issued.

Root of Trust (RoT) is a source that can always be trusted within a cryptographic system. Because cryptographic security is dependent on keys to encrypt and decrypt data and perform functions such as generating digital signatures and verifying signatures, RoT schemes generally include a hardened hardware module.

Cloud-Based Encryption: The cloud provider generates, manages, and stores the keys used to encrypt and decrypt data. Bring Your Own Key (BYOK): The customer generates and manages encryption keys, but the cloud provider has access to the keys and can use them to encrypt and decrypt data.

Location of the Authorized Keys File

ssh/authorized_keys in the user's home directory. Many OpenSSH versions also look for ssh/authorized_keys2 . Some organizations use custom OpenSSH builds with different default paths.

PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) relies on public and private keys to encrypt data. Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) safeguard these keys in tamper-proof boxes. HSMs store and manage the keys, preventing theft or misuse. They're vital for PKI security, enabling trusted online transactions and communications.