Key management refers to the process of administering cryptographic keys in a secure manner within an organization. This involves the generation, distribution, storage, rotation, and eventual disposal of encryption keys used to protect sensitive data, communications, and systems. Effective key management is crucial for maintaining the security of encrypted information, as the strength of the encryption relies heavily on the secure handling of the keys. Key management systems (KMS) are often used to automate these processes, ensuring that keys are securely managed and accessible only to authorized users and systems.

Key management is a fundamental aspect of cybersecurity, as compromised keys can lead to unauthorized access to encrypted data. Proper key management practices help organizations comply with regulatory requirements, such as GDPR or HIPAA, which mandate the protection of sensitive data. It also supports the implementation of various security protocols, such as SSL/TLS for secure communications and disk encryption for data protection. As organizations increasingly rely on encryption to secure their digital assets, robust key management practices are essential for safeguarding critical information.