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4.1.4. Disk Encryption Options
💡 First Principle: Disk encryption protects data at rest. Azure provides multiple encryption options with different key management approaches.
Scenario: Your compliance requirements mandate customer-managed encryption keys and encryption of temporary disks.
Disk Encryption Comparison
| Type | Encrypts | Key Management | Temp Disk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server-Side Encryption (SSE) | OS + Data disks | Platform or customer-managed | No |
| Azure Disk Encryption (ADE) | OS + Data disks | Customer-managed (Key Vault) | Yes |
| Encryption at Host | All disks + temp + cache | Platform or customer-managed | Yes |
| Confidential Disk Encryption | OS disk (VM-isolated key) | VM-specific | Yes |
⚠️ Exam Trap: Assuming SSE encrypts temporary disks. Server-Side Encryption (the default) does not encrypt temp disks or cache. Use Encryption at Host or ADE for comprehensive encryption.
Written byAlvin Varughese
Founder•15 professional certifications