What is Hybrid Key Management System (KMS)?

Defining Hybrid Key Management System

Hybrid KMS is a centralized management of accounts across all leading CSP’s with custom API‘s for integration and the ability to manage all encryption key lifecycle management activities from the central console.

Many organizations simply prefer to own and physically oversee their own HSMs, but they also seek the accessibility and convenience of the cloud. A hybrid model would contain a combination of on-premises HSMs and cloud HSMs to account for:

• Scalability
• Backup
• Failover

This model is often used by organizations that have large on-premises HSM estates, but want to limit further investments in on-premises and want to tap into the scalability of the cloud. With a hybrid infrastructure, if an organization sees an unexpectedly high volume, cloud-based HSMs can seamlessly provide additional capacity, preventing slowdowns or outages. 

A few years ago, on-premises were the only option for key management. That has changed and organizations now have the option to move fully to the cloud or adopt a hybrid model. As organizations are considering these options, they can evaluate based on these parameters: 

• FIPS 140-2 Level 3 compliance and PCI DSS standards.
• Scalability
• Compliance
• High Availability
• Integration
• Resources
• Cost

If an organization is facing scalability issues, interruptions, access failure, it might be time to extend their critical infrastructure beyond physical premises. Organizations have several options: moving to the cloud, renting rack space, or looking for hybrid options.

Why a Hybrid Key Management System Is Important?

1. Flexibility

   You can use your security system for important tasks and a more flexible one in the cloud for other things.

2. Scalability

   Imagine your security growing with your business. This system can change and expand along with your needs.

3. Data Everywhere

   In today’s world, your data can be in many places, like your servers, data centres, or the cloud. Hybrid KMS ensures your data is safe, no matter where it is.

4. Following Rules

   Some industries and rules need special security. A Hybrid KMS helps you follow those rules and keeps your data safe.

Benefits of a Hybrid Key Management System

1. Data Safety

   It’s like having locks on your data in different places. This system keeps your data safe, even if it’s all over the place, so no one can access it without your permission.

2. Grows with You

   As your business grows, your security can, too. It’s akin to possessing an appropriately sized security system precisely when it’s required.

3. Saves Money

   Instead of buying expensive equipment for security, you can use this system and save money while keeping your data safe.

4. Always Ready

   In case something goes wrong or someone tries to get your data without permission, this system has a backup plan to keep your data available and your business running.

5. Easy to Follow Rules

   In case something goes wrong or someone tries to get your data without permission, this system has a backup plan to keep your data available and your business running.

6. Simple to Manage

   Managing keys can be tricky, but a well-set-up Hybrid KMS makes it easier to take care of your keys, no matter where they are.

Conclusion

Keeping data safe is extremely important for businesses everywhere. A Hybrid Key Management System is like a superhero for your data. It combines the best of both worlds, so your data stays safe and secure, no matter where it is. As your business grows and the digital world changes, a Hybrid KMS is your bridge to a safer and more flexible future.