Information security is always a burning issue in information technology. One of the essential pieces of computer security is the TPM or Trusted Platform Module, which is implemented either on a separate chip or as a software-based firmware version. Because of their key role, attackers have also become increasingly focused on hacking the TPM in their attacks.

Now Microsoft has announced the introduction of a new solution to replace TPM, the Microsoft Pluton security processor. The Pluto security processor is designed to integrate directly inside the processor, and Microsoft has partnered with AMD, Intel and Qualcomm to do so. According to the company, it would be impossible to delete data stored on Pluto even if the attacker had full physical access to the computer. The Secure Hardware Cryptography Key (SHACK) technology included with Pluto ensures that the keys stored in the security processor are never disclosed outside the protected devices or even to Pluto’s own firmware.

According to Microsoft, Pluto is not intended to replace internal security processors, but to become a new layer between it and the operating system. Its exploitation will also be launched directly, as the TPM will initially be emulated on Pluto. This will allow security applications and solutions based on TPM technology to run automatically on Pluto. Microsoft intends to provide the necessary firmware updates to Pluto directly through Windows Update, so that any third-party updates may not affect user security.

However, we cannot talk about a completely new technology. Microsoft baked the first version of Pluto into AMD’s semi-custom system circuitry on Xbox One consoles. In addition, Pluto has been used in Azure Sphere in the past. However, it is not clear from the article when Plutonium-powered processors or system circuits would be allowed on the market.

Source: Microsoft