A Hardware Security Module (HSM) is a physical security device that safeguards and manages digital keys, performs encryption and decryption services, strong authentication, and often have tamper detection and prevention built into the devices themselves. Each HSM contains one or more secure ‘cryptoprocessor’ chips to prevent tampering and ‘bus probing’.
A common example of HSMs in our daily lives is our use of Automated Telling Machines (ATMs). We all possess ATM or Debit cards that allow us to gain access to our bank account. When you insert your card into the machine, it verifies that the 4 digit PIN you enter matches the reference PIN known to the card issuer.
