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How to: Create a Database Master Key

The database-level cryptographic features in SQL Server rely on a database master key. This key is not generated automatically when the database is created; it must be created by the system administrator. It is only necessary to create the master key once per database.

To create a database master key

  1. In Query Editor, connect to the database by executing the following Transact-SQL command: USE <database name> ; GO.

  2. Choose a password for encrypting the copy of the master key that will be stored in the database.

  3. Execute the following Transact-SQL command: CREATE MASTER KEY ENCRYPTION BY PASSWORD = '<password>' ; GO 

Important

You should immediately back up the new master key. For more information, see How to: Back Up a Database Master Key.