Integrating Multi-Modal Circuit Features within an Efficient Encryption System

Abstract

The problem of the incorporation of pattern features with unusual distributions is well known within Pattern Recognition systems even if not easily addressed. The problem is more acute when features are derived from characteristics of given integrated electronic circuits. The current paper introduces novel efficient techniques for normalising sets of features which are highly multi-modal in nature, so as to allow them to be incorporated within a single encryption key generation system based primarily on measured hardware characteristics.The utility of the proposed system lies in the observation that the need for data sent to and from remote network nodes to be secure and verified is substantial. Security can be improved by using encryption techniques based on keys, which are based on unique properties of the individual nodes within the network. This will serve both to minimize the need for key storage and sharing as well as to validate the initiator node of a message.

A Scheme for the Generation of Strong ICMetrics Based Session Key Pairs for Secure Embedded System Applications

“…It consists of measuring the system features, applying the normalisation maps and combining the various feature values to generate a basis number for identifying the system. The individual feature values are be combined using two possible feature combination techniques; each generating a different sized key of varying stability [8]. The feature addition-combination technique generates a stable but small basis number by adding individual feature values, while the feature concatenationcombination technique generates a long but less stable basis number by concatenating individual feature values.…”

“…Therefore embedded systems security is a key aspect of embedded systems design and is currently a major area of research. ICMetrics (Integrated Circuit metrics) is a key technology that has been developed in connection with the requirement of security in embedded system applications [8]. ICMetrics makes use of system level characteristics to provide identification to the system [9].…”

“…It generates the secret key from measurable hardware/ software characteristics and specifications of the device. The stable ICMetrics key that is derived from hardware and software characteristics of a device provide a very strong link between the device and the cryptographic key; thereby enabling device verification with a very high degree of assurance [8].…”

A practical proposal for ensuring the provenance of hardware devices and their safe operation

“…As an example, Figure 2 represents feature distributions after applying the normalisation procedure over a limited set (identical for all devices) of original feature samples. Full details on the normalisation procedure can be found in our earlier work [10].…”

“…In our previous work [10], the target space was linear in nature. We used enhanced Peak-Trough detection [6,15] and kernel estimation algorithms [3] to determine the various modal clusters taking one feature at a time.…”