7 key Technologies to secure Hardware Devices

This blog discusses technologies that are used to secure hardware devices such as firewalls, routers, smart devices, etc. Technologies covered in this blog are Hardware Security Module (HSM), Trust Anchor Module (TAm), Secure Boot, Run Time Defenses, Root of Trust, Remote Attestation, and Image Signing.

Hardware Security Module (HSM)

HSM is a physical device used to secure cryptographic secrets such as keys and performs cryptographic operations such as encryption, authentication, digital signature, etc. The primary purpose of using HSM is to protect sensitive data on the system and help in performing the operations of a secure crypto lifecycle. HSM helps in preventing data theft and misuse.

Trust Anchor module (TAm)

The main purpose of using TAm is to ensure booting software is legit. TAm is an abstract composition that contains one or several HSMs. HSM provides protection for identities, applications, and transactions by ensuring appropriate levels of encryption, decryption, and authentication for a variety of applications.

Secure Boot

The primary purpose of using secure boot is to ensure the integrity of code that runs on the hardware platform. When the IT device starts, secure boot enables the checking of the signature of each code that runs on the platform. If there is some problem with the signature while booting, the device will not start.

Run Time Defenses (RTD)

Run time defenses help in securing software and corresponding hardware by providing defenses against Injection attacks. Here, technologies such as Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR), Built-in Object Size Checking (BOSC), etc. will be used.

Root of Trust

The root of Trust is hardware, firmware, or software-based, and a unique identity that cannot be changed. This technology helps hardware devices to verify the integrity of code by using the mechanism of an immutable root key.

Remote attestation

Remote attestation is a method of verifying the integrity of the platform and helps in determining the trust level of the platform. By using this technology, any change in software will be detected by authorized parties by using cryptographic mechanisms.

Image Signing

Image signing is a method of verifying the integrity of code by calculating the hash of code and the resulting hash will be encrypted with the private key. The encrypted data (digital signature) is forwarded with an image and checked during runtime for any tampering.

Conclusion

This blog explains key technologies used to secure IT infrastructure all over the world. Let us know if we miss any other key technology to secure hardware devices.