Protected Configuration: Meaning and Explanation 

Protected configuration refers to a technical process through which any data is protected using enhanced layers of security applications. It makes it difficult for any third-party or intruders to get inside your sensitive data and steal the same. 

Using the protected configuration path, you can make it even more difficult for hackers and intruders to go inside your site and get access to your configuration file.

By sensitive information, we mean user id, email id, connection strings, and encryption codes. Mostly, all sensitive information is stored inside ASP.NET, and using a protected configuration route you can easily encrypt essential details. 

What is its function? 

Using protected configuration you may not be able to encrypt or decipher configprotecteddata folder of your config file. That is why Protected configuration primarily helps in hiding sensitive details from outsiders. 

Managing Protected Configuration 

A website admin should use the ASP.NET IIS registration key (ASPNET_REGIIS.EXE)—executable file to manage the protected configuration of essential files. In order to implement a protected configuration provider, start a class to inherit the Protected Configuration Provider abstract class. 

Types of Protected Configuration offered by .NET: 

•   System.Configuration.DPAPIProtectedConfigurationProvider 
•   System.Configuration.RsaProtectedConfigurationProvider 

In Conclusion:

With ASP.NET 1.0, the admin can easily store multiple sensitive data and information in a highly secret manner. Developers know the importance of connection strings as they contain necessary website admin credentials and other sensitive data.

It is recommended to use a protected configuration route to save essential data in an encrypted format, which nobody can steal or hack into your server. It is compatible with both ASP.NET and NON-ASP.NET frameworks.