System and method for firmware authentication

Details System and method for firmware authentication System and method for firmware authentication

2007-07-10

2007-07-10

Zand, Kambiz (Department: 2134)

Electrical computers and digital processing systems: support

Data processing protection using cryptography

C713S188000, C726S002000

Reexamination Certificate

active

10335378

ABSTRACT:
A system and method for firmware authentication includes a first memory with the firmware embedded therein, a programmable microprocessor, and a microprocessor coupling the first memory and the programmable microprocessor. The firmware includes a first cryptographic algorithm unit. The programmable microprocessor includes a second memory for storing a second cryptographic algorithm unit. The microprocessor runs the first cryptographic algorithm unit and generates a first digital signature. The programmable microprocessor runs the second cryptographic algorithm unit and generates a second digital signature. The microprocessor then runs a verification of the first and the second digital signatures. If the first digital signature and the second digital signature are identical to each other, the authentication of the firmware is accomplished; otherwise, the system halts.

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