What stages does key lifecycle management include?

Key lifecycle management includes several stages:

1. Key Generation: Creating cryptographic keys securely. For example, generating an RSA or AES key pair for encryption.
2. Key Distribution: Securely sharing keys with authorized parties. For instance, using a key management system (KMS) to distribute keys to servers.
3. Key Storage: Safely storing keys to prevent unauthorized access. Example: Storing keys in a hardware security module (HSM) or a secure cloud-based KMS like Tencent Cloud's Key Management Service (KMS).
4. Key Usage: Applying keys for their intended purpose, such as encrypting data or verifying digital signatures. Example: Using a key to encrypt sensitive data before storage.
5. Key Rotation: Periodically replacing keys to reduce the risk of compromise. Example: Rotating database encryption keys every 90 days.
6. Key Revocation: Disabling or retiring keys when they are no longer needed or suspected to be compromised. Example: Revoking a key if a server is breached.
7. Key Destruction: Permanently deleting keys to ensure they cannot be recovered. Example: Securely erasing keys from an HSM when decommissioning hardware.

For secure key management, Tencent Cloud's KMS provides features like automated key rotation, access control, and compliance with industry standards.