How do I drop a database master key in SQL Server?

How do I drop an existing master key in SQL Server?

1DROP MASTER KEY.2USE AdventureWorks2012; DROP MASTER KEY; GO.3USE master; DROP MASTER KEY; GO.

How do I change the master key in SQL Server?

If the master key cannot be opened, use the RESTORE MASTER KEY statement to restore the master key from a backup. Use the FORCE option only if the master key is irretrievable or if decryption fails. Information that is encrypted only by an irretrievable key will be lost.

How do I remove database encryption key?

If the database is encrypted, you must first remove encryption from the database by using the ALTER DATABASE statement. Wait for decryption to complete before removing the database encryption key. For more information about the ALTER DATABASE statement, see ALTER DATABASE SET Options (Transact-SQL).

Where is the database master key stored?

Database master key It is stored in both the database where it is used and in the master system database. The copy of the DMK stored in the master system database is silently updated whenever the DMK is changed.