Hardware Security Module Selective Debugging Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Debugging computer programs in hardware security modules is challenging due to discrepancies between development and runtime environments, leading to imperfect emulation and increased debugging costs, as these modules have limited resources and security features that restrict information disclosure.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating debugging instructions into compiled programs that can be inhibited or activated within the hardware security module, allowing for precise debugging under production conditions without affecting performance, and enabling secure transmission of debugging information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If debugging instructions are incorporated into compiled programs for precise debugging under production conditions, then debugging accuracy is improved, but program execution time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the debugging instructions switchable between active and inactive states. A control mechanism allows the debugging mode to be dynamically changed based on operational requirements, enabling the system to transition between precise debugging mode and optimized execution mode seamlessly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of instruction execution by introducing a control flag or configuration parameter that determines whether debugging instructions are executed. By modifying this parameter (activating or deactivating debugging mode), the system can adjust between high accuracy debugging and fast execution without changing the fundamental program structure.
2Ease of operation
If debugging instructions are activated in hardware security modules with security features, then debugging capability is improved, but security protection is weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the program execution into distinct debugging paths and normal operation paths. Debugging instructions are isolated in specific segments that can be selectively executed, allowing debugging capability to be activated without compromising the overall security architecture when debugging is not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between debugging mode and secure operation mode. When debugging is deactivated, the control mechanism ensures that debugging instructions are not executed, maintaining full security protection. This dynamic state change allows the same hardware to serve both debugging and secure operation requirements.
3Reliability
If hardware security modules use limited system resources for security functions, then security performance is improved, but debugging capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing the hardware security module to perform both secure operation and debugging functions using the same limited resources. The control mechanism enables the system to switch between these functions, allowing the limited resources to serve dual purposes without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters to enable debugging with limited resources. By adjusting execution parameters and controlling instruction selection, the module can perform debugging operations that leverage existing hardware resources efficiently, rather than requiring additional dedicated debugging hardware.
4Measurement precision
If emulators are used to reproduce runtime environment for debugging, then debugging accuracy is improved, but emulation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by incorporating debugging instructions directly into the compiled program that will be executed on the actual hardware. Instead of copying and creating complex emulators to simulate the runtime environment, the debugging capabilities are embedded in the program itself, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining debugging accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the field of debugging of compiled programs in a hardware security module such as a microprocessor card. A module according to the invention includes a microprocessor and a compiled program to be executed by the microprocessor in order to carry out an operation. The compiled program includes at least one debugging instruction which whether or not it is executed does not modify the execution of the operation. And, the hardware security module includes an element of inhibiting or activating the debugging instruction during the execution of the compiled program.