What is hardware security module (HSM)?

The primary objective of HSM security is to control which individuals have access to an organization's digital security keys. With HSM encryption, you enable your employees to use your private keys without granting them direct access. Used this way, HSMs help reduce your attack surface. How Do Hardware Security Modules (HSMs) Work?

What is a hardware security module?

These modules traditionally come in the form of a plug-in card (so called internal HSM) or an external device that attaches directly to a computer or network server (so called network HSM). A hardware security module contains one or more secure cryptoprocessor chips.

What are the different types of hardware security modules?

There are two main types of Hardware Security Module: General Purpose HSMs can utilize the most common encryption algorithms, such as PKCS#11, CAPI, CNG, and more, and are primarily used with Public Key Infrastructures , cryptowallets, and other basic sensitive data. The other type of HSM is a payment and transaction HSM.