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Security Fundamentals & Crypto · Intermediate

Key Encryption Key (KEK)

A key used to encrypt (wrap) other keys rather than data.

Definition

KEKs protect data encryption keys in storage and in transit, forming a key hierarchy. Typically KEKs reside in HSMs or KMS while DEKs are stored wrapped alongside the data. This hierarchy limits exposure and simplifies rotation.

Example

An HSM-held KEK wraps thousands of per-file DEKs in a storage system.

Exam tip

DEKs encrypt data; KEKs encrypt DEKs.

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