Session Key Glossary Definition

A session key is a key that is temporary or is used for a relatively short period of time. It is an encryption and decryption key that is randomly generated to ensure the security of a communications session between a user and another computer or between two computers. These keys are sometimes called symmetric keys, because the same key is used for both encryption and decryption.

In security and compliance work, this term helps teams describe controls, risks, identity practices, standards, audits, or protective technologies. It is relevant when managing access, reducing exposure, documenting safeguards, or demonstrating accountability.