Not Using TDE

Why Aren’t You Using TDE on SQL Server 2019 or Newer?

If you’re running SQL Server 2019 or a newer version, you have access to a powerful security feature that was once out of reach for many: Transparent Data Encryption (TDE). Yet, some organizations still aren’t leveraging it. So, why not?

TDE encrypts your database’s data and log files at rest, protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access without requiring changes to your application code. It’s a seamless way to bolster security, especially for industries handling sensitive data like healthcare, finance, or retail. Before SQL Server 2019, TDE was exclusive to the Enterprise Edition, leaving Standard Edition users—often smaller businesses or those with budget constraints—without this critical tool. This limitation forced many to rely on less comprehensive solutions or third-party tools to secure their data.

With SQL Server 2019, Microsoft changed the game by making TDE available in Standard Edition. This democratization means that organizations of all sizes can now encrypt their databases without upgrading to the pricier Enterprise Edition. Whether you’re running on-premises or in the cloud, TDE is within reach.

So, what’s holding you back? Are you unaware that TDE is now available in Standard Edition? Is it a lack of understanding about how to implement it? Setting up TDE is straightforward: create a master key, generate a certificate, and enable encryption on your database. Microsoft’s documentation provides clear steps, and the performance overhead is often minimal for most workloads.

What happens when you are not using TDE?

Perhaps you’re concerned about key management or compatibility. While these are valid considerations, SQL Server’s integration with Azure Key Vault and robust key management tools simplifies the process. If you’re still on the fence, consider the cost of not using TDE. A data breach could expose sensitive information, leading to financial losses, legal penalties, and reputational damage.

If you’re on SQL Server 2019 or newer, there’s no longer a licensing barrier to using TDE. It’s time to ask yourself: why aren’t you encrypting your data? In today’s threat landscape, TDE isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have for safeguarding your organization’s data. Take advantage of this feature and secure your databases today.