Non-Volatile Memory Access Validation for Sector Configuration Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-volatile memory systems are vulnerable to malicious applications modifying memory sector configurations, compromising security and availability throughout the circuit lifecycle.
Innovation Solution
Implement a validation mechanism that compares transaction attributes with memory sector attributes to ensure only authorized applications can modify configuration values, using a register with an association table to manage access permissions and restrictions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If memory sector configuration is allowed to be modified throughout the circuit lifecycle, then memory sector availability and flexibility are improved, but security and integrity are compromised due to potential malicious modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by establishing attribute validation rules before allowing configuration modifications. The memory interface validates transaction attributes (security level, access restriction level, program access prohibition level) against sector attributes before permitting any configuration changes. This preventive mechanism blocks malicious modifications in advance while allowing legitimate configuration changes throughout the circuit lifecycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary validation mechanism between the application and memory sector configuration. The memory interface acts as a mediator that intercepts configuration requests, validates transaction attributes against sector attributes, and only permits modifications when validation succeeds. This intermediary layer protects memory integrity while maintaining configuration flexibility.
2Reliability
If attribute validation is implemented to prevent malicious modifications, then memory sector security is improved, but system complexity increases due to validation mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing validation at the specific interface level where memory access occurs. Rather than system-wide complex validation, the memory interface locally validates transaction attributes against sector attributes using predefined rules. This localized approach provides comprehensive security with minimal added complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by validating specific transaction parameters (security level, access restriction level, program access prohibition level) against corresponding sector parameters. The validation mechanism compares these parameters using predefined rules, providing robust security through parameter validation without requiring complex structural changes to the memory system.
3Reliability
If access restrictions are enforced to protect memory sectors, then memory sector integrity is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to access limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making access permissions dynamic rather than static. The memory interface dynamically evaluates transaction attributes against sector attributes at the time of each access request. This dynamic validation allows legitimate operations to proceed smoothly while automatically blocking unauthorized access, maintaining both integrity and operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the memory interface to autonomously validate access requests without external intervention. The interface automatically compares transaction attributes with sector attributes and enforces access restrictions based on predefined rules. This self-validating mechanism protects memory integrity while requiring minimal external control overhead.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present description relates to a method of operating a non-volatile memory, comprising the validation of a transaction, requesting a modification of a configuration value (HCD, Write protection, write mode) of a sector of the memory, after comparison of the attributes of the transaction with access attributes of said sector of said memory.