Non-Volatile Key Storage Verification Using Linked CRC Checks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for writing security keys into non-volatile memory lack effective verification of correct key storage without compromising security, leading to potential breaches.
Innovation Solution
A method involving precomputed cyclic redundancy codes (CRC) is used to verify the correct writing of security keys into non-volatile memory by comparing computed CRCs with precomputed values, ensuring the key is correctly stored without requiring direct access to the stored key.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If verification methods are used to check key writing correctness, then manufacturing precision is improved, but security level deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) codes as an intermediary verification mechanism. Instead of directly verifying the security key itself, the system computes and verifies CRC codes of the key. This intermediary approach allows verification of key integrity without exposing the actual key content, thus maintaining security while ensuring manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a copy of the security key in a register for CRC computation, then compares the computed CRC with a pre-stored CRC value. This copying mechanism enables verification without requiring direct access to or exposure of the original stored key, resolving the contradiction between verification capability and security protection.
2Reliability
If security keys are stored in non-volatile memory, then reliability is improved, but accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-computes and stores the CRC code of the security key in the non-volatile memory alongside the key itself. This preliminary action enables future verification operations to be performed by simply comparing newly computed CRC values with the pre-stored reference, making the verification process simple and efficient while maintaining the security benefits of non-volatile storage.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is presented for verifying a writing of a key into a non-volatile memory. A first cyclic redundancy code of the key is stored into a register of an interface of the memory. A second cyclic redundancy code is computed on a message formed by the copied key having the first cyclic redundancy code linked thereto. The writing of the key into the non-volatile memory is considered as valid when the second cyclic redundancy code is equivalent to the zero value.