Background

Post-quantum cryptography is based on different mathematical foundations than traditional “number theoretic” based RSA and Elliptic Curve algorithms. Quantum-resistant lattice-based, code-based, and multivariate-based algorithms do not benefit from the hardware acceleration features available in traditional smart cards and secure elements. As a post-quantum pioneer, PQShield has a deep understanding of the computational and mathematical requirements of these new algorithms which has led to significant architectural and design innovations in our hardware implementations.

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What is PQSoC?

PQSoC crypto co-processor summary

PQSoC is a configurable “System on Chip” design built from PQShield’s modular IP cores, offering features and functionality suitable for smart cards and other hardware-based secure elements.

PQSoC components have been designed to implement upcoming post-quantum cryptographic standards — while also offering efficient interoperability with legacy algorithms.

Available as both a modular IP or self-contained solution, it is FIPS 140-3 ready and side-channel attacks resistant.

 

Hardware Components

RISC-V crypto co-processors

RISC-V Controller: standards compliant but designed for security. PQShield actively contributes to RISC-V ISA and TRNG.

Custom PQC co-processors: designed to support all new PQC standards. They drastically reduce latency and power consumption of post-quantum cryptography computations.

Secondary cryptography co-processor: that supports symmetric encryption algorithms, hash functions (hash-based cryptography), and secure random-number generation.

Peripherals: required for development and testing.

Note: The components are also offered separately; it is possible to integrate the cryptographic coprocessors with proprietary CPU cores (such as those from Intel or ARM).

Software Components

Crypto co-processor software component

PQSLIB. A library of post-quantum cryptographic primitives that utilizes the special hardware features offered by PQSoC. These low-level primitives can be used to replace or complement legacy cryptography in applications. The implementations match current NIST post-quantum standardization finalists for digital signatures, key establishment and encryption, and are constantly updated as the process nears completion.

PQSE. A full system emulator that allows efficient application development and debugging. The emulator covers both the CPU core and the cryptographic peripherals, so applications can be tested at near-real time speeds without resorting to hardware circuit simulation.

 

IP Data Sheet on Github