Database Encryption & Decryption Methods

The API Method: This is application-level encryption that is appropriate across any database product (Oracle, MSSQL, etc.). Queries within the encrypted columns are modified within the application, requiring hands-on work. If a business has an abundance of data, this can be a time-consuming approach. Additionally, encryption that functions at the application level can lead to increased performance issues.

                                            

The Plug-In Method: In this case, you’ll attach an encryption module, or “package,” onto the database management system. This method works independently of the application, requires less code management and modification, and is more flexible you can apply this to both commercial and open-source databases. With this option, you will typically use column-level encryption.

                                         

The TDE Method: Transparent data encryption (TDE) executes encryption and decryption within the database engine itself. This method doesn’t require code modification of the database or application and is easier for admins to manage. Since it’s a particularly popular method of database encryption.        

                                 

There are several methods that can be used for data encryption and decryption:

Symmetric Key Encryption: This method uses a single key for both encryption and decryption. The most popular symmetric encryption algorithms include Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Data Encryption Standard (DES), and Triple DES.

Asymmetric Key Encryption: This method uses a pair of keys for encryption and decryption, known as a public key and a private key. The most popular asymmetric encryption algorithm is the RSA algorithm.

Hash Functions: These are one-way functions that take input data and produce a fixed-length output called a hash. Hash functions are used to verify the integrity of data, but not to encrypt or decrypt it.

Message Authentication Codes (MACs): These are used to verify the authenticity and integrity of messages. MACs are generated using a shared secret key and a cryptographic hash function.

Digital Signatures: These are used to verify the authenticity and integrity of digital documents. Digital signatures use asymmetric key encryption to sign documents, ensuring that the signature is unique to the signer and the document.

Steganography: This is the practice of hiding information within other information, such as embedding a message within an image file. While not strictly encryption, steganography can be used to protect sensitive data from detection.

Quantum Encryption: This method uses the principles of quantum mechanics to transmit encrypted data. It is considered to be highly secure, as any attempt to intercept or eavesdrop on the transmission will cause the quantum state to collapse, making it impossible to copy or read the data. Examples of quantum encryption techniques include quantum key distribution (QKD) and quantum teleportation.

These methods can be used in combination with each other to provide additional layers of security.

Thank You

Bhaskar K (Intern)

Shield Strategist,

Data Shield Team

Enterprise Minds, Tirupati.