Personal computer ROM scan startup protection
US6098171A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 31, 1998 |
| Grant date | Aug 1, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 31, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F2211/1097
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Provides management tools for a System Owner to assure that a personal computer system is secured against access by an unauthorized user by foreclosing the possibility of circumventing a system's security protection during an adapter ROM scan. If security function, such as that for C2 functionality, is enabled, prior to the adapter ROM Scan for the system, the POST code detects whether or not disabling of the keyboard during adapter ROM Scan is enabled. If enabled, the keyboard is disabled or locked prior to adapter ROM Scan. On some systems, the security function may not be used and, the system does not consider password protection for the adapter utilities. If however, the security functionality of the system is enabled, the POST code will continue to enable the password protection for the adapter ROM Scan. Once the input device, e.g., keyboard, is disabled the adapter ROM scan will begin. Upon completion of the adapter ROM scan, the input device will be enabled and progress will continue through POST.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.