NFC Security Processor Integration in Memory Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network-based systems and NFC technology face vulnerabilities in security functionality, leading to potential system failures and data breaches, with limited secure memory contributing to compromised security and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A memory module integrating non-volatile memory for security software and keys, along with a security processor that performs security functions, and incorporates NFC RF directly or as a separate IC, ensuring secure execution of NFC wireless protocol capabilities within a trusted environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If NFC functionality is integrated within the secure execution environment of the memory module, then security is enhanced and unauthorized access is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates NFC functionality directly within the secure execution environment of the memory module by incorporating an NFC controller and cryptographic processor into the same secure hardware boundary. This merging ensures that NFC operations cannot access non-secure memory regions, preventing unauthorized data extraction while maintaining a unified security architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The NFC controller is nested within the secure execution environment of the memory module, which itself is nested within the broader system architecture. This nested structure allows NFC operations to be performed inside the trusted boundary, with the cryptographic processor providing an additional layer of security nested within the NFC controller's operational space.
2Reliability
If NFC RF is integrated directly into the security processor, then security capabilities are tightly coupled and executed within secure environment, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The NFC RF transceiver is integrated directly into the security processor on the same semiconductor die, merging radio frequency communication capabilities with cryptographic processing functions. This consolidation ensures that all NFC operations occur within the secure boundary of the security processor, preventing external access to sensitive cryptographic materials while simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If secure memory availability is increased to support NFC functionality, then NFC functionality is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The secure memory within the memory module serves multiple functions: it stores cryptographic keys for NFC operations, stores security credentials for device authentication, and provides secure storage for other sensitive system data. This multi-functionality allows the same secure memory resources to support NFC functionality without requiring dedicated separate storage, thereby avoiding additional cost while enabling versatile NFC capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
An architecture is presented that facilitates integrating memory, security functionalities and near field communication (NFC) capabilities in a mobile device. A memory module is provided that comprises non-volatile memory that stores security software, sensitive data, and keys and a security processor that accesses the security software from the nonvolatile memory and performs security functions based on the security software stored. A NFC radio frequency transmitter and receiver (RF) is directly integrated into the security processor to facilitate NFC capabilities within the secure environment of the memory module. Further, the non-volatile memory directly interfaces to an NFC antenna positioned outside of the memory module via the integrated NFC RF. The integration of the security processor, memory, and NFC RF into the memory module provides a trusted environment for the manipulation and decryption of data received through the NFC antenna.