Apple inc. (20240160766). FILE SYSTEM METADATA PROTECTION simplified abstract
FILE SYSTEM METADATA PROTECTION
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Eric B. Tamura of Sunnyvale CA (US)
Wade Benson of San Jose CA (US)
FILE SYSTEM METADATA PROTECTION - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240160766 titled 'FILE SYSTEM METADATA PROTECTION
Simplified Explanation
The patent application describes techniques for securely storing file system metadata in a computing device. In one embodiment, the computing device includes a processor, memory, and a secure circuit. The memory stores a file system with encrypted metadata for accessing files, and the secure circuit decrypts the metadata encryption key in response to a request to access the file system.
- Secure storage of file system metadata in a computing device
- Processor, memory, and secure circuit components
- Metadata encryption key stored in encrypted form
- Secure circuit decrypts metadata encryption key for access
- Memory controller retrieves and decrypts encrypted metadata for processor
Potential Applications
The technology described in the patent application could be applied in various industries and scenarios, including:
- Data security and privacy protection
- Secure file storage and access in cloud computing environments
- Protection of sensitive information in government or corporate networks
Problems Solved
The technology addresses several key issues in data security and file system management, such as:
- Preventing unauthorized access to file system metadata
- Safeguarding sensitive information stored in memory
- Ensuring data integrity and confidentiality in computing devices
Benefits
The use of secure circuitry and encryption techniques offers several benefits, including:
- Enhanced data security and privacy protection
- Improved control over file system access and management
- Reduced risk of data breaches and unauthorized data manipulation
Potential Commercial Applications
The technology could have various commercial applications in industries such as:
- Cloud computing services
- Data storage and management solutions
- Cybersecurity products and services
Possible Prior Art
One possible prior art related to this technology is the use of hardware security modules (HSMs) for secure key storage and encryption in computing devices. HSMs have been used in various industries to protect sensitive data and cryptographic keys from unauthorized access.
Unanswered Questions
How does the technology impact system performance?
The patent application does not provide details on the potential impact of the secure circuit and encryption processes on the overall performance of the computing device. It would be important to understand if there are any latency issues or resource constraints associated with the implementation of these security measures.
What are the potential vulnerabilities of the technology?
While the patent application focuses on the secure storage of file system metadata, it does not address potential vulnerabilities or attack vectors that could compromise the security of the system. It would be essential to assess the technology's resilience to various cyber threats and potential weaknesses in the encryption and decryption processes.
Original Abstract Submitted
techniques are disclosed relating to securely storing file system metadata in a computing device. in one embodiment, a computing device includes a processor, memory, and a secure circuit. the memory has a file system stored therein that includes metadata for accessing a plurality of files in the memory. the metadata is encrypted with a metadata encryption key that is stored in an encrypted form. the secure circuit is configured to receive a request from the processor to access the file system. in response to the request, the secure circuit is configured to decrypt the encrypted form of the metadata encryption key. in some embodiments, the computing device includes a memory controller configured to receive the metadata encryption key from the secure circuit, retrieve the encrypted metadata from the memory, and decrypt the encrypted metadata prior to providing the metadata to the processor.
