Trusted Platform Modules: Why, When and How to Use Them

Trusted Platform Modules (TPMs) are small, inexpensive chips which provide a limited set of security functions. They are most commonly found as a motherboard component in laptops and desktops aimed at the corporate or government markets, but can also be found in many consumer-grade machines and servers or purchased as independent components.

This book describes the primary uses for TPMs and practical considerations such as: when TPMs can and should be used, when they shouldn't be used, what advantages they provide and how to benefit from them.

Topics covered include:

* When to use a TPM

* TPM concepts and functionality

* Programming introduction

* Provisioning: getting the TPM ready to use

* First steps: TPM keys, machine authentication, data protection, attestation

* Other TPM features

* Software and specifications

* Troubleshooting

* Appendices contain basic cryptographic concepts, command equivalence, requirements charts and complete code samples.