backup key

Secondary entry device

A backup key is a duplicate key kept in case the original is lost, broken, or inaccessible: I keep a backup key under the doormat.

In computing and encryption, a backup key is a secondary cryptographic key that can decrypt data if the primary key becomes unavailable—controversial when governments demand backup keys to access encrypted communications.

Related

unlock · failsafe · reserve · copy · master · emergency · override · code · safeguard · secondary · fallback · escrow · vault · safe deposit · cold storage · passphrase · access · restore

Categories
Opposites
primacy/hierarchy

backup keymaster key

Lock opener for all doors

access vs. denial

backup keylocked out

Unable to enter

no key

Family

backup, back, key, backed, backing, backs, keyed, keying, keys

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G