# What is BYOK?

> Bring Your Own Key

It is a security approach that allows the user to bring their own security keys to encrypt their own data.

## Overview
BYOK ensures that the location where your data is stored and the key that opens your data are independent of each other. In this way, even the service provider that stores the data cannot access your data without your key.

*Analogy: When you put your belongings in a safe, you use the private key you brought with you, not the owner of the safe.*

## How it works
You create your own encryption key from the security settings and upload it to the system. The system locks the data with your key.

## Where it is used
It is used in cloud storage services and corporate data centers.

## Commonly confused with
It's confused with just encryption, but you have complete key control here.

## Frequently asked questions
**What happens if I lose my key?**
You may permanently lose access to your data, which is why key management is so critical.

**Why should I use BYOK?**
To increase data privacy and restrict service provider access to data.


## Related terms
- [Cybersecurity Skills](/en/dictionary/cybersecurity-skills/)
- [End-to-End Encryption](/en/dictionary/end-to-end-encryption/)
- [Secrets](/en/dictionary/secrets/)

## Related tools
- [holaOS](/en/discover/holaos/)
- [Copilot SDK](/en/discover/copilot-sdk/)

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Source: TreScout Dictionary · https://trescout.com/en/dictionary/byok/