Virtualized Security Processor for Host Device Service Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Security microprocessors in host devices, such as broadband cable and satellite receivers, are limited by their computational power and memory, leading to inefficiencies in processing security command cycles, which can hinder the operation of multiple concurrent conditional access and digital rights management services.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of virtual security modules that act as proxies between applications and the security module, enforcing communication channels, security rules, and prioritizing operations, thereby reducing the computational load on the security module and enabling concurrent operation of multiple services while maintaining security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated security module is used to enhance security, then security is improved, but computational power and memory are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides security processing into two segments: complex cryptographic operations are handled by the dedicated security module, while command management, validation, and coordination are handled by the host processor. This segmentation allows the security module to focus only on its strength (cryptographic computation) while the host handles higher-level logic.
Solution Approach 2:
A security port interface acts as an intermediary layer between the host processor and the security module. It manages command queues, validates requests, and coordinates communication, thereby maximizing the utilization of the security module's computational power without overwhelming it with management overhead.
2Reliability
If a dedicated security module is used to enhance security, then security is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The host processor prepares and queues security commands in advance before the security module is ready to process them. The security port interface maintains a command queue, allowing commands to be staged and ready for immediate execution when the security module becomes available, reducing idle time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system ensures continuous processing by maintaining a pipeline of commands in the queue. As the security module completes one operation, the next command is already ready, eliminating gaps in processing and maximizing the security module's utilization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple concurrent services are supported, then service versatility is improved, but security module resource contention increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each service is assigned its own dedicated command queue within the security port interface. This segmentation isolates service-specific commands, preventing one service from blocking or interfering with others, while still allowing the security module to process commands from multiple services in an organized manner.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically manages multiple command queues based on service priorities and security module availability. The security port interface can prioritize certain services over others and adjust command scheduling in real-time, optimizing resource allocation as conditions change.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of a virtualized security processor are described herein. In various embodiments, one or more virtual security modules may be instantiated at a port interface between a security module and a processing environment of a host device. In one embodiment, a virtual security module is instantiated for each service of the host device. Each virtual security module is configured for at least one command supported by the security module for an associated service of the host device. After being configured, a virtual security module may receive a security command request from an associated service and, before submitting the security command request to the security module, verify and prioritize the security command request. In certain aspects, the use of virtual security modules assists the host device to interface multiple services with the security module, while prioritizing tasks for and offloading certain tasks from the security module.