Where split-key technology assured the security of data by only allowing the full (and secret) key to be derived algorithmically from the two halves of the keys, homomorphic encryption ensures that the actual keys are no longer stored anywhere. Joining the keys is accomplished algorithmically and produces an encrypted symmetric key that is specific to a single resource, such as a disk volume or S3 object.

Porticor can secure a fairly impressive list of data objects, including:

• EBS
• VMDK
• MySQL
• Oracle
• SQL Server
• MongoDB
• Cassandra
• Linux, Unix (NFS)
• Windows (CIFS)
• AWS S3

The split-key technology is used when data is stored, and homomorphic techniques are used when data is accessed. Keys are always encrypted in the cloud, and control is maintained by the customer – not the key management or cloud service provider.

The addition of partially homomorphic encryption techniques allows for two very important security features to its portfolio of cloud encryption services:

1. The master key is never exposed, making it nigh unto impossible to steal

2. A compromise involving one object does not afford attackers access to other objects as each is secured using its own unique encrypted symmetric key

This second benefit is important, particularly as access to systems is often accomplished via a breach onto a single, internal system. Gaining access to or control over one system in a larger network has been a primary means of gaining a foothold “inside” as a means to further access the intended target, often data stores. The 2012 DATA BREACH INVESTIGATIONS REPORT noted that “94% of all data compromised involved servers.” The 18% increase in this statistic over the previous years’ findings make the security of individual systems – not just from outsider agents but inside agents as well – a significant contributor to data breaches and one in need of serious attention.

While new to the security scene and relatively untested as to its ability to withstand the rigorous attention and zealous attempts to crack as other cryptographic algorithms and techniques, Porticor offers the analysis and proof of its homomorphic techniques via Dr. Alon Rosen, a cryptography expert from the School of Computer Science at the Herzliya Interdisciplnary Center.

Regardless, the problems Porticor is attempting to address are real. Key management in the cloud is too often overlooked and storing full keys anywhere – even on-premise in the data center – can be a breach waiting to happen. By splitting key management responsibility but assigning control to the customer, Porticor provides a higher level of trust over traditional techniques in the overarching cryptographic framework required to securely store and manage data stored in public cloud computing environments.