Alibaba Cloud Certified Associate (ACA) Practice Test

The correct description of the principles of Alibaba Cloud SSL certificate private key protection focuses on how private keys are managed to maintain security while allowing for necessary access. When keys are loaded into memory in plaintext format only when needed, it ensures that they are not perpetually stored in a vulnerable state. This practice minimizes the risk of exposure since the keys are only present in an unencrypted format during the brief moments they are actually in use. Such an approach balances security with efficiency, as it allows applications to perform their functions without compromising the integrity of the private keys.

In contrast, the first option implies that keys are stored in a database in an encrypted format, which does not cover the specifics of their use in memory, nor does it account for the risks associated with potential prolonged exposure. The second option suggests that keys must be in plaintext at all times for quick access, which is fundamentally insecure and contradictory to best practices in cryptographic key management. The third option states that keys are accessible to all applications, which contradicts security principles that dictate strict access controls and restrictions to prevent unauthorized usage.