Hardware security module
The IBM 4769 PCIe Cryptographic Coprocessor is a hardware security module (HSM) that includes a secure cryptoprocessor implemented on a high-security, tamper resistant, programmable PCIe board. Specialized cryptographic electronics, microprocessor, memory, and random number generator housed within a tamper-responding environment provide a highly secure subsystem in which data processing and cryptography can be performed. Sensitive key material is never exposed outside the physical secure boundary in a clear format.
The IBM 4769 is designed to meet FIPS PUB 140-2 Level 4, the highest level of certification achievable for commercial cryptographic devices. The 4769 is part of IBM's pervasive encryption and enterprise security schemes. The IBM 4769 data sheet describes the coprocessor in detail.
IBM supplies two cryptographic-system implementations:
Applications may include financial PIN transactions, bank-to-clearing-house transactions, EMV transactions for integrated circuit (chip) based credit cards, and general-purpose cryptographic applications using symmetric key algorithms, hashing algorithms, and public key algorithms.
The operational keys (symmetric or asymmetric private (RSA or Elliptic Curve)) are generated in the coprocessor and are then saved either in a keystore file or in application memory, encrypted under the master key of that coprocessor. Any coprocessor with an identical master key can use those keys. See elliptic curve cryptography (ECC) for more information about ECC. New hardware in the 4769 adds support to accelerate the Elliptic Curves 25519 and Ed448, as well as the format preserving encryption (FPE) algorithms FF1, FF2, FF2.1, FF3, and FF3.1.
IBM supports the 4769 on certain IBM Z mainframes as Crypto Express7S (CEX7S) - feature codes 0898 and 0899. The 4769 / CEX7S is part of IBM's support for pervasive encryption and drive to encrypt all data.
References.
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External links.
General overview of cryptography: [URL]
These links point to various relevant cryptographic standards.
ISO 13491 - Secure Cryptographic Devices: [URL]
ISO 9564 - PIN security: [URL]
ANSI X9.24 Part 1: Key Management using Symmetric Techniques: [URL]
ANSI X9.24 Part 2: Key Management using Asymmetric Techniques: [URL]
FIPS 140-2: [URL]
Payment Card Industry (PCI) PIN Transaction Security (PTS): Hardware Security Module (HSM) Modular Security Requirements: search this site: [URL]