Google Cloud KMS
Google Cloud Key Management Service (KMS) is a cloud-based service that allows users to create, manage, and use cryptographic keys for encrypting data across Google Cloud services and applications. It provides centralized key management, enabling secure storage, rotation, and auditing of encryption keys. KMS integrates with other Google Cloud services like Cloud Storage, BigQuery, and Compute Engine to protect data at rest and in transit.
Developers should use Google Cloud KMS when building applications on Google Cloud that require robust data encryption, compliance with security standards (e.g., HIPAA, PCI DSS), or centralized key management for scalability. It is essential for use cases such as encrypting sensitive data in databases, securing API keys, and implementing customer-managed encryption keys (CMEK) to maintain control over encryption in multi-cloud or hybrid environments.