How to: Create a Database Master Key

New: 17 July 2006

The database-level cryptographic features in SQL Server rely on a database master key. This key is not generated automatically when the database is created; it must be created by the system administrator. It is only necessary to create the master key once per database.

To create a database master key

1. In Query Editor, connect to the database by executing the following Transact-SQL command: USE <database name> ; GO.

2. Choose a password for encrypting the copy of the master key that will be stored in the database.

3. Execute the following Transact-SQL command: CREATE MASTER KEY ENCRYPTION BY PASSWORD = '<password>' ; GO

Important

You should immediately back up the new master key. For more information, see How to: Back Up a Database Master Key.

See Also

Tasks

How to: Back Up a Database Master Key

Reference

Encryption Hierarchy

Other Resources

CREATE MASTER KEY (Transact-SQL)
BACKUP MASTER KEY (Transact-SQL)

Help and Information

Getting SQL Server 2005 Assistance