What term describes the secure handing of cryptographic keys?

The term that specifically describes the secure handling of cryptographic keys is key management. This involves a set of processes and practices that ensure the generation, distribution, storage, and destruction of cryptographic keys are conducted securely and effectively. Proper key management is crucial in maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of encrypted data. It encompasses various aspects, including the creation of keys, the assignment of access controls, and the procedures for retiring keys when they are no longer needed.

In contrast, while encryption processes relate to how data is secured by transforming plaintext into ciphertext using algorithms and keys, this concept does not encompass the broader practices involved in managing those keys. Data security refers to the overall measures taken to protect data from unauthorized access and corruption, which includes encryption but is a more general term that does not focus on keys specifically. Network protocol design involves structuring protocols for data transmission over networks, which may include security considerations but again does not zero in on key handling specifically. Thus, key management is the most accurate term for the secure handling of cryptographic keys.