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Application-level encryption

Application-level encryption is distinct from typical database encryption. In this approach, data gets encrypted by the application or an external infrastructure service before it reaches the database.

Application-level encryption is typically applied to specific database fields or columns. These approaches are known as field-level encryption and column-level encryption, respectively.

Imagine a castle where, instead of just having a moat, every treasure inside is locked in its own enchanted box. Even if invaders breach the castle walls, they are left facing boxes they cannot open. This is how with application-level encryption, critical details like passwords, bank details, and SSNs remain hidden from sight.

You may have encountered terms like “transparent data encryption” (TDE) or “encryption at rest”. While these protect against physical disk access and tick compliance boxes, their automatic decryption upon access makes them ineffective in the cloud era.

With application-level encryption, even if the database is compromised, sensitive data stays encrypted, remaining unreadable without encryption keys stored separately. Even with stolen database credentials, including those of an administrator with full permissions, plaintext data cannot be accessed — only encrypted data.

In today’s cybersecurity landscape, application-level encryption provides enhanced protection by focusing on the most sensitive data.

Application-level encryption with a data privacy vault

Implementing application-level encryption using a data privacy vault is more secure, easier to use, and offers scalability on multiple levels.

  1. Database agnostic. Sensitive data types can be encrypted and stored across any database.
  2. Streamlined. Different R&D teams can use their preferred tech stacks and data stores. A vault’s encryption APIs provide an organization-wide, scalable solution.
  3. Enhanced data protection. Each type of data is encrypted with a unique key. Keys are transparently managed and isolated, as with KMS, making them theft-proof.
  4. Access control. This approach provides granular control over data access, restricting access to specific data fields for employees or services.
  5. Cost-effectiveness. Adopting application-level encryption significantly reduces the costs of handling data breaches if they occur.
  6. Minimal performance impact. The runtime performance impact of application-level encryption is negligible (CPU < 1%).