SYSKEY Meaning and
Definition
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Syskey is a term that refers to a Windows utility program designed to provide an additional layer of security to the operating system's password authentication system. It is a shortened form of "System Key."
The syskey feature allows users to encrypt the user account password information stored in the Windows Security Account Manager (SAM) database using a 128-bit encryption key. This key can be stored separately on a floppy disk, USB drive, or the system's hard drive, making it harder for attackers to gain unauthorized access to the password hashes.
When syskey is enabled, it stores the encrypted key in the Windows registry and requires users to enter this key during the system startup process, before the Windows graphical user interface appears. This process acts as an extra barrier against malicious actors attempting to bypass or crack user passwords. Syskey is an optional security measure that can be enabled or disabled according to the user's preference.
It's worth noting that syskey does not encrypt the entire operating system; instead, it focuses on securing the password hashes stored in the SAM database. This feature is often used by system administrators or security-conscious individuals to enhance the security of their Windows-based systems, particularly in environments where the risk of unauthorized access is elevated.
Common Misspellings for SYSKEY
- ayskey
- zyskey
- xyskey
- dyskey
- eyskey
- wyskey
- stskey
- sgskey
- shskey
- suskey
- s7skey
- s6skey
- syakey
- syzkey
- syxkey
- sydkey
- syekey
- sywkey
- sysjey
- sysmey
Etymology of SYSKEY
The word "syskey" is an abbreviation for "System Key". It was first introduced by Microsoft in the Windows NT operating system as a utility that encrypts the Windows Security Account Manager (SAM) database, which contains user account information and password hashes. The purpose of syskey is to add an extra layer of security to the SAM database by protecting it with a cryptographic key.
The term "syskey" itself does not have a specific etymology, as it is simply a combination of "system" and "key" to describe the function it performs.
