System-on-a-chip (SoC) security using one-time programmable memories
US8285980B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 24, 2011 |
| Grant date | Oct 9, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 24, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L2209/84
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A system-on-a-chip includes a first memory and a processor. The first memory is configured to store a boot code. The processor is configured to (i) access the first memory, and (ii) execute the boot code when booting up. The processor is configured to, while booting up, determine whether a first one-time-programmable memory has been previously programmed based on the boot code. The processor is configured to, in response to the first one-time-programmable memory not having been previously programmed based on the boot code, (i) load firmware from a second memory into a third memory, and (ii) execute the firmware loaded into the third memory. The processor is configured to, in response to the first one-time-programmable memory having been previously programmed, verify a digital signature of the firmware.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.