What is hardware-based encryption, and how is it integrated into SoCs?
What is Hardware-Based Encryption? Hardware-based encryption means cryptographic operations (AES, RSA, ECC, SHA, etc.) are executed directly in dedicated circuits rather than in software on a general-purpose CPU. Key Features: Dedicated Crypto Engines : Specialized blocks handle encryption/decryption at high speed. Lower Latency : No CPU instruction overhead, faster than software libraries. Power Efficiency : Optimized silicon consumes less energy per operation. Security Hardening : Resistant to software attacks, some designs include anti-tamper and side-channel countermeasures . Integration of Encryption into SoCs Modern SoCs (e.g., used in smartphones, IoT, automotive, industrial MCUs) integrate encryption in several ways: 1. Cryptographic Accelerators SoCs include AES engines , SHA hash units , RSA/ECC accelerators . The CPU offloads cryptographic workloads (like TLS handshakes, secure boot). Example: ARM Cortex-M SoCs with CryptoCell , NXP i....