Symemetric Key is Lost

  • Help!

    Our SQL Reporting Services Server had some real issues this morning and in the process apparently ate/corrupted the SRS symmetric key. Now, after the server is almost back up I get the following message when trying to access the http:/servername/Reports :

    The report server cannot decrypt the symmetric key used to access sensitive or encrypted data in a report server database. You must either restore a backup key or delete all encrypted content and then restart the service. Check the documentation for more information. (rsReportServerDisabled) Get Online Help

    Bad Data.

    I'm assuming that I'll need to reinstall the SRS on the server. Is there any way to re-aquire the needed key? Barring that - will re-installing the SRS and re-importing the reports/datasources bring SRS back to life?

    This has been a really long day.... please help.

    PS I checked the documentation - it's really bad

    Thanks.

    Glenn

  • You should be able to do as the message says -> delete *encrypted* content and then set up a new key for the server.  The upside is that all of your reports and DS's will be there, the downside is that you'll need to re-enter any (and all) encrypted information that was previously stored.

    Look up rskeymgmt.exe in your RS BOL, this is the util that lets you delete the encrypted info.

    I would also start by reading (in BOL) the section titled 'managing Encryption Keys' as i think it has steps very relevant to your current situation.

     

    Cheers,

    Steve.

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