SECURE CORE

The SecureCore project will investigate a secure integrated core architecture for trustworthy operation of mobile computing devices. This core includes a security-aware general-purpose processor, a small security kernel and a small set of secure communications protocols. The research will use a "clean slate" approach to define a minimal set of fundamental architectural features required for such a secure core, for use in resource-constrained, ubiquitous computing platforms exemplified by secure embedded systems (e.g., computer in a heart monitor) and mobile computing devices (e.g., handheld web-enabled computer). This approach shows what is possible when security is designed in at the beginning rather than added on as an after-thought. It also changes the computer design paradigm from an emphasis on performance to one on trustworthy, dependable operation. The goal is to achieve the desired security levels without compromising performance, size, cost, energy consumption, or usability...