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Cryptographic module

Cryptographic component of a computer system

Wikipedia contributorsAdapted for Fathomly · View authors
1 min read
Source updated April 29, 2024

A cryptographic module is a component of a computer system that securely implements cryptographic algorithms, typically with some element of tamper resistance.

NIST defines a cryptographic module as "The set of hardware, software, and/or firmware that implements security functions (including cryptographic algorithms), holds plaintext keys and uses them for performing cryptographic operations, and is contained within a cryptographic module boundary."

Hardware security modules, including secure cryptoprocessors, are one way of implementing cryptographic modules.

Standards for cryptographic modules include FIPS 140-3 and ISO/IEC 19790.

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This article is adapted from the Wikipedia article “Cryptographic module”, written by its contributors and licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Fathomly has changed the layout, removed citation markers, navigation and maintenance notices, and adjusted punctuation. This adapted version is shared under the same license. For references, see the original article.

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Related topics

Cryptographic Module Validation Program

The Cryptographic Module Validation Program is a joint American and Canadian security accreditation program for cryptographic modules. The program is available to any vendors who seek to have their products certified for use by the U.S. Government and regulated industries (such as financial and health-care institutions) that collect, store, transfer, share and disseminate "sensitive, but not classified" information.

Cryptographic Module Testing Laboratory

Cryptographic Module Testing Laboratory is an information technology (IT) computer security testing laboratory that is accredited to conduct cryptographic module evaluations for conformance to the FIPS 140-2 U.S. Government standard. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) accredits CMTLs to meet Cryptographic Module Validation Program (CMVP) standards and procedures.