How to Encrypt and Decrypt Password in SQL Server 2014

Encrypting and Decrypting Passwords in SQL Server 2014

Securing sensitive data, particularly passwords, is essential in the digital age we live in today. In SQL Server 2014, encryption and decryption of passwords can be achieved using different methods. Let's explore how you can protect your passwords using encryption techniques in SQL Server 2014:

1. Encrypting Passwords:

One commonly used method to encrypt passwords in SQL Server 2014 is by using the ENCRYPTBYPASSPHRASE function. This function allows you to encrypt the password by providing a passphrase that will be used as the key. Here's an example query:

SELECT ENCRYPTBYPASSPHRASE('YourPassphraseHere', 'YourPassword')

This query will encrypt the 'YourPassword' using the provided passphrase.

2. Decrypting Passwords:

To decrypt the encrypted password, you can use the DECRYPTBYPASSPHRASE function. This function will decrypt the password using the same passphrase that was used for encryption. Here's an example query:

SELECT CONVERT(varchar, DECRYPTBYPASSPHRASE('YourPassphraseHere', YourEncryptedPasswordColumn))

Replace 'YourEncryptedPasswordColumn' with the column name where the encrypted password is stored in your database.

3. Additional Security Measures:

It's essential to ensure that the passphrase used for encryption is strong and kept confidential. Additionally, consider implementing other security measures such as hashing algorithms and salting to further enhance the security of stored passwords.

By following these steps and best practices, you can securely encrypt and decrypt passwords in SQL Server 2014, thereby safeguarding sensitive data and bolstering the overall cyber security of your database.