As we delve deeper into security practices within HSM and Vault Services, key rotation emerges as a fundamental strategy. Each key, upon creation, is automatically assigned a version. When rotating a key, a new version is generated, serving to limit the extent of data encrypted or signed by any single key version.
Why Rotate Keys?
Key rotation isn’t merely a recommendation; it’s a best practice. By periodically rotating keys, the risk associated with potential key compromises is significantly mitigated. This proactive measure bolsters security by ensuring that no single key version bears the burden of encrypting or signing excessive amounts of data over time.
Managing Decryption with Rotated Keys
A common concern arises regarding decryption processes after key rotation. However, the Vault Service seamlessly manages this aspect. While a new key version is generated during rotation, the underlying OCID (Oracle Cloud Identifier) of the key remains consistent across rotations. This consistency allows for the decryption of data encrypted with older versions, safeguarding data integrity and accessibility.