What Is Transparent Data Encryption (TDE)?

If you're like us, you probably imagine the data storage for your company as a dependable vault. A big, shiny, impenetrable vault that keeps your precious information safe from prying eyes. What if it weren't a vault? What if it were, instead, more of a puzzle box? One that could be opened with the right combination of keys but still keep all its contents safe from prying eyes? That's Transparent Data Encryption (TDE), precisely what you need to secure your data! TDE encrypts database files at the file level. That means that even if someone steals one of your database files, they won't be able to read it without the correct key. It also means that if they access one of your encrypted database files through unauthorized means like hacking into your server or accessing your backups, they won't be able to access any other encrypted files alone! If you want to restore your encrypted backup, you'll need the certificate for the database encryption key. Not all backups are created equal, meaning not all backups have this certificate. The Transparent Data Encryption architecture makes a certificate for the database encryption key that must be present for restoring backups. Without it, you can't regain your encrypted backup! Transparent Data Encryption is a great way to keep your data safe. It's like having a personal bodyguard that ensures no one can access your files, even if they try! What happens when you go out in public? What happens when someone tries to follow you or sneak into your home? That's where Transparent Data Encryption comes in. They ensure that your business is protected from all sides and that no one can access your most valuable assets, no matter how hard they try.