SQL Server 2008 Database (How to lock it from copying and attach it in another machine)

Question

I have a database with data that i don't want anyone to copy around.

Now, how can i prevent other users to have access in the local machine, but whenever i want to work with, i am allowed.

And another issue I'm thinking, how can i lock the DB so if someone copy the .mdb file and try to attach it on another machine he/she couldn't see a thing?

Answer 1

You probably want to use database encryption to achieve this. Then the mdb file will be useless.

Some links

http://blog.sqlauthority.com/2009/04/28/sql-server-introduction-to-sql-server-encryption-and-symmetric-key-encryption-tutorial-with-script/

http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc278098.aspx

http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/bb510663.aspx

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/316898

Answer 2

There are many different kinds of encryption options available in SQL Server. If you don't want to have to re-write your application then the new feature in SQL Server 2008 called Transparent Data Encryption (TDE) is for you. It means you can encrypt the data files to prevent unauthorized users getting at the data from a backup or by copying the data files.

This MSDN link should be enough to get you started.