Virtualization of software configuration registers of the TPM cryptographic processor
US7836299B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 15, 2005 |
| Grant date | Nov 16, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 7, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F21/57
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A virtual PCR (VPCR) construct is provided that can be cryptographically tagged as optionally resettable or as enduring for the life of a client (process, virtual machine, and the like) and that can be loaded into a resettable hardware PCR to make use of the functionality of a Trusted Platform Module (TPM). The VPCRs may cryptographically reflect their characteristics (resettable or not) in their stored values. Also, since the PCRs are virtualized, they are (effectively) unlimited in number and may be given general names (UUIDs) that are less likely to collide. The VPCRs can be loaded into a physical PCR as needed, but in a way that stops one piece of software from impersonating another piece of software. The VPCRs thus enable all software using the TPM to be given access to TPM functionality (sealing, quoting, etc.) without security concerns.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.