encrypted_session_key
Sets the encryption key used for encrypting and decrypting variable values in NGINX.
Description
The 'encrypted_session_key' directive is used to define a specific key for the encryption and decryption of variable values within NGINX. It is critical in the configuration of secure sessions, allowing sensitive information to be encrypted using a symmetric key algorithm (AES-256). This directive accepts a single argument which must be a 32-byte string, as required by AES-256 encryption. The directive can be placed in various contexts, including 'http', 'server', 'location', and within 'if' conditions, allowing maximum flexibility in its application across different parts of the configuration.
Once the 'encrypted_session_key' is set, it works in conjunction with other directives in the module, such as 'set_encrypt_session' and 'set_decrypt_session', to handle the actual encryption and decryption processes. It's essential to configure this directive correctly, as a mismatched key during decryption will render the encrypted data unreadable. It's also worth noting that securing your keys should be paramount to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of any encrypted session data. Therefore, proper environmental security measures should be taken when managing these keys.
Config Example
http {
encrypted_session_key "abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz123456";
}
server {
location /encrypt {
set $raw 'text to encrypt';
set_encrypt_session $session $raw;
# Further processing...
}
}Ensure the provided key is exactly 32 bytes in length; otherwise, NGINX will fail to start.
Changing the encryption key will invalidate all previously encrypted sessions, requiring users to re-authenticate.
Do not expose the key in publicly accessible configuration files; keep it secured.