Quantum-Safe Security Controllers

The controllers use strong cryptography in hardware to help systems stay safe from future attacks while using power and speed well.

The National Security Agency (NSA) created the Commercial National Security Algorithm Suite 2.0 (CNSA 2.0) to set quantum-resistant cryptography standards. This move comes from advances in cryptography and the need for security. The NSA now wants data centers and computing markets to be ready for post-quantum security within two years.

To support this, Microchip Technology developed the MEC175xB embedded controllers. These controllers include built-in, unchangeable post-quantum cryptography to help system designers meet security needs.

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The MEC175xB controllers use a modular design that lets developers adopt post-quantum cryptography. They protect data for the long term without affecting features. These controllers include cryptographic algorithms approved by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), secure boot options that can be configured, and an Enhanced Serial Peripheral Interface (eSPI).

The MEC175xB controllers include quantum-resistant algorithms approved by NIST, such as Module-Lattice-Based Digital Signature Algorithms (ML-DSA), Merkle hash-based Leighton-Micali Signature (LMS) verification, and Module-Lattice-Based Key-Encapsulation Mechanism (ML-KEM). These algorithms are built into unchangeable hardware to prevent attacks that can happen in software.

The controllers support secure boot and firmware updates, which can be set to use CNSA 1.0, 2.0, or a mix of both for signature checks. They use ML-DSA for signing and key generation to improve system security and authenticity.

Inside, the controllers have an Arm Cortex-M4F processor running at 96 MHz with a Memory Protection Unit (MPU) for performance in demanding and real-time tasks. They also come with 480 KB of SRAM, I3C interfaces for host and client connections, and a USB 2.0 Full-Speed port for connectivity.

“As the significance of potential future attacks on cryptography using quantum computing is understood more widely, the cybersecurity landscape is already undergoing substantial transformations,” said Nuri Dagdeviren, corporate vice president of Microchip’s security products business unit. “Our MEC175xB controllers, featuring quantum-resistant cryptography implemented in immutable hardware with efficient power management, are designed to equip our customers with the tools they need to navigate increasingly complex digital security requirements.”