DROP MASTER KEY (Transact-SQL)

Removes the master key from the current database.

Transact-SQL Syntax Conventions

Syntax

DROP MASTER KEY

Arguments

This statement takes no arguments.

Remarks

The drop will fail if any private key in the database is protected by the master key.

Permissions

Requires CONTROL permission on the database.

Examples

The following example removes the master key for the AdventureWorks database.

USE AdventureWorks;
DROP MASTER KEY;
GO

See Also

Reference

CREATE MASTER KEY (Transact-SQL)
OPEN MASTER KEY (Transact-SQL)
CLOSE MASTER KEY (Transact-SQL)
BACKUP MASTER KEY (Transact-SQL)
RESTORE MASTER KEY (Transact-SQL)
ALTER MASTER KEY (Transact-SQL)

Other Resources

Encryption Hierarchy

Help and Information

Getting SQL Server 2005 Assistance