SQL Server + Azure Key Vault Integration
Secure Secrets with WSI
SQL Server and Azure Key Vault — Managing Secrets and Encryption with WSI
In today’s data-driven world, protecting sensitive business information is more than a best practice—it’s a necessity. Microsoft Azure Key Vault provides a centralized, highly secure solution for managing secrets, encryption keys, and certificates across cloud and on-premises environments. When integrated with SQL Server, it forms a powerful shield against data breaches and compliance risks.
At Winning Solutions, Inc. (WSI), we specialize in building secure, scalable architectures by integrating Azure Key Vault with SQL Server. Our approach enhances encryption capabilities, protects credentials, and streamlines secret management for organizations of all sizes.
What Azure Key Vault Offers
- Centralized Secret Storage: Securely store API keys, passwords, tokens, and certificates in one protected location.
- Advanced Key Management: Generate, import, and control encryption keys used to secure SQL Server data.
- Hardware Security Modules (HSM): Leverage HSM-backed key protection for compliance-grade encryption.
- Seamless Azure Integration: Connect effortlessly with Azure SQL, Microsoft Defender, and other cloud services for end-to-end security.
With Key Vault, you ensure that secrets are never stored alongside the data they protect—keeping your assets secure and auditable.
How SQL Server Integrates with Azure Key Vault
- 1. Setup: Deploy Azure Key Vault and define strict access policies for administrators and applications.
- 2. SQL Server Connector: Install and configure the Microsoft SQL Server Connector to enable communication with Key Vault.
- 3. Enable EKM: Use Extensible Key Management (EKM) to manage encryption keys outside the SQL Server environment.
- 4. Implement Encryption: Apply Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) and Column-Level Encryption (CLE) using Key Vault-managed keys.
This integration enhances both security and compliance by removing direct access to sensitive cryptographic material from SQL Server instances.
WSI’s Secure Integration Methodology
- Comprehensive Planning: We assess your current SQL Server deployment and identify risks and encryption needs.
- Key Vault Configuration: We create and configure your Azure Key Vault with policy-based access and role separation.
- Connector Installation: WSI handles the full deployment of the SQL Server Connector for seamless integration.
- Encryption Implementation: We implement and test both TDE and CLE using Azure Key Vault to protect data at rest.
- Ongoing Support: We monitor key usage, manage key rotation, and ensure continuous system compliance.
Whether you manage sensitive customer data, financial records, or proprietary IP, WSI ensures that your encryption strategy is secure, scalable, and regulation-ready.
Why Partner with WSI?
- Unmatched SQL Expertise: With over 25 years of database experience, we deliver secure and optimized implementations.
- Cloud-Native Security: We design your Key Vault architecture to grow with your organization’s digital footprint.
- Compliance Alignment: WSI helps meet HIPAA, PCI DSS, and GDPR requirements through encryption and key control.
- U.S.-Based Support: Get clear, local assistance from our experienced integration team.
If data security and regulatory compliance matter to your organization, now is the time to act. Contact Us today and let WSI show you how SQL Server and Azure Key Vault can protect your business-critical data with confidence.