Password-based media cartridge authentication

Abstract

The present invention, in particular embodiments, is directed to methods, apparatuses and systems directed to the authentication of cartridge-based storage media. In a particular embodiment, the present invention provides authentication passwords that are stored on authorized cartridge-based hard disc drives. The authentication password, in one embodiment, is a hash of an interleaved combination of a cartridge-based hard disc drive's serial number and model number strings. Upon insertion of a locked cartridge-based hard disc drive into a carrier, carrier logic obtains the serial number and model number strings of the hard disc drive and generates a password additionally using a base string. The carrier logic then attempts to unlock/authenticate the cartridge-based hard disc drive with the newly-generated password. Authentication occurs with an authorized cartridge as the password contained in the associated hard disc drive will match the password sent by the carrier logic. Unauthorized cartridge passwords are typically generated without knowledge of the base string or algorithm. Due to that, compatibility with associated carriers is prevented.