To meet security requirements, what should be managed alongside the cryptography used?

Managing key-management processes and procedures is crucial alongside the use of cryptography because the effectiveness of cryptographic systems heavily relies on secure key management. Cryptographic keys are the foundation of secure communication and data protection. If keys are not appropriately managed—meaning they are not securely generated, stored, distributed, and disposed of—then the cryptographic measures in place can be easily compromised, rendering the encryption ineffective.

Well-defined key-management procedures ensure that the keys are only accessible to authorized individuals and systems, thus protecting sensitive data against unauthorized access. Furthermore, these processes help in maintaining the lifecycle of keys; they dictate when keys need to be rotated, audited, or revoked in case of potential breaches, ensuring ongoing compliance with security standards and regulations.

While personal devices, open access to data, and minimal security protocols may each pose their own risks and considerations, none of them address the specific integrity and security of the cryptographic keys themselves, which are critical for maintaining overall system security. Therefore, focusing on key-management processes is essential to bolster the security encompassed by cryptographic practices.