Hardware-based system for cybersecurity protection of microprocessor systems

Abstract

A system for providing hardware-based cybersecurity for 'smart' devices includes a security device implemented without the use of microprocessors for critical security functions and an electrically separable device for removal or disconnection of certain security functions. The security device acts a security bridge between the microprocessor core(s) of the protected system and the rest of the protected system. The security device controls access to a protected storage area that holds microprocessor code and/or data for the protected system, and blocks or otherwise prevents execution of any code not present in the protected storage area. The electrically separable device is cryptographically matched to a single instance of a protected system and contains circuitry required to load, remove, or alter any information in the protected storage area. The electrically separable device can also be used for secure communication over a public network to and from the protected system.