In this article we will explore some of the reasons why HSMs can be difficult to use and look at a novel solution that helps to overcome these problems.

In this final part of the series, we look at how cloud computing will impact the use of cryptography and at the future of HSMs; and finally, we reflect on what you can do to be ready for the advances in cryptography that lie ahead.

As part 2 of this 3-part series, here we look at new applications such as blockchain and IoT, as well as the impact of quantum technology.

Cryptography has come a long way since ancient times, and the pace of development has been especially quick over the last 2 decades. Indeed, many fundamental aspects of our modern world – finance, communications, e-commerce, national security – are built on the bedrock of cryptography.

With the increasing dependence on cryptography to protect digital assets and communications, the ever-present vulnerabilities in modern computing systems, and the growing sophistication of cyber attacks, it has never been more important, nor more challenging, to keep your cryptographic keys safe and secure. A single compromised key could lead to a massive data breach with the consequential reputational damage, punitive regulatory fines and loss of investor and customer confidence.

“Quantum computing” is computation performed using a computing device based on the strange, counter-intuitive physical properties of matter at very small scale, known as quantum mechanics.

Part 3: Choosing the Right Key Management System

In this concluding part, we will examine the business case for introducing a new key management system and define 20 criteria to help you select the optimal solution for both your current and future needs.

Part 2: The Requirement for a Key Management System

In Part 1of this three-part article, we introduced the concept of key management and the functions and benefits of a key management system. In this part, we will consider how the requirement for a new key management system arises and then explore the underlying business drivers and benefits of such a system in each scenario.

Part 1: What is a Key Management System?

In this, the first part of a three-part article, we start off by looking at what key management is, the function of a key management system and the benefits it provides.