Cryptographic module

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A cryptographic module is a component of a computer system that securely implements cryptographic algorithms, typically with some element of tamper resistance.

NIST defines a cryptographic module as "The set of hardware, software, and/or firmware that implements security functions (including cryptographic algorithms), holds plaintext keys and uses them for performing cryptographic operations, and is contained within a cryptographic module boundary." [1]

Hardware security modules, including secure cryptoprocessors, are one way of implementing cryptographic modules.

Standards for cryptographic modules include FIPS 140-3 and ISO/IEC 19790. [2] [3]

See also

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The IBM 4768 PCIe Cryptographic Coprocessor is a hardware security module (HSM) that includes a secure cryptoprocessor implemented on a high security, tamper resistant, programmable PCIe board. Specialized cryptographic electronics, microprocessor, memory, and random number generator housed within a tamper-responding environment provide a highly secure subsystem in which data processing and cryptography can be performed. Sensitive key material is never exposed outside the physical secure boundary in a clear format.

The IBM 4769 PCIe Cryptographic Coprocessor is a hardware security module (HSM) that includes a secure cryptoprocessor implemented on a high-security, tamper resistant, programmable PCIe board. Specialized cryptographic electronics, microprocessor, memory, and random number generator housed within a tamper-responding environment provide a highly secure subsystem in which data processing and cryptography can be performed. Sensitive key material is never exposed outside the physical secure boundary in a clear format.

ISO/IEC 19790 is an ISO/IEC standard for security requirements for cryptographic modules. It addresses a wide range of issues regarding their implementation, including specifications, interface definitions, authentication, operational and physical security, configuration management, testing, and life-cycle management. The first version of ISO/IEC 19790 was derived from the U.S. government computer security standard FIPS 140-2, Security Requirements for Cryptographic Modules.

References

  1. "Cryptographic module - Glossary". csrc.nist.gov. Retrieved 2023-09-24.
  2. "FIPS PUB 140-3: Security Requirements for Cryptographic Modules" (PDF). NIST. 2019-03-22.
  3. "ISO/IEC 19790:2012: Information technology — Security techniques — Security requirements for cryptographic modules". ISO. Retrieved 2023-09-24.