Cryptography system and method for providing cryptographic services for a computer application
US5689565A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 29, 1995 |
| Grant date | Nov 18, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 29, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F2221/2131
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A cryptography system architecture provides cryptographic functionality to support an application requiring encryption, decryption, signing, and verification of electronic messages. The cryptography system has a cryptographic application program interface (CAPI) which interfaces with the application to receive requests for cryptographic functions. The cryptographic system further includes at least one cryptography service provider (CSP) that is independent from, but dynamically accessible by, the CAPI. The CSP provides the cryptographic functionality and manages the secret cryptographic keys. In particular, the CSP prevents exposure of the encryption keys in a non-encrypted form to the CAPI or application. The cryptographic system also has a private application program interface (PAPI) to provide direct access between the CSP and the user. The PAPI enables the user to confirm or reject certain requested cryptographic functions, such as digitally signing the messages or exportation of keys.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.