Microchip Technology has launched a new CryptoAutomotive In-Vehicle Network (IVN) TrustAnchor/Border Security Device (TA/BSD) development kit. OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers can use this kit to introduce the highest level of security to networked vehicle systems, starting with priority areas and without interference from other parts.
The widespread adoption of convenient features such as vehicle infotainment and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in automobiles has significantly enhanced the customer experience for daily driving. However, the installation of numerous related devices to achieve this has increased the number of entry points available to hackers. Hackers are repeatedly exploiting these vulnerabilities to continuously pose security threats. If equipment is damaged due to exposure to hacker attacks, it can lead to recalls and revenue losses, and damage brand reputation across the automotive industry.

The challenge facing OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and Tier 1 suppliers is not to determine whether security is needed in the vehicle network, but to find a way to implement security without costly, extensive design overhauls.

The CryptoAutomotive TA/BSD Development Kit is the industry's only dedicated automotive security tool that enables the implementation of security nodes in automotive networks while serving as an intuitive starting point for developers. Additionally, its flexible design allows nodes to be configured to meet various specifications and industry standards, supporting security implementations for OEMs.

The tool includes secure key storage, ECU (Electronic Control Unit) authentication, a hardware-based cryptographic accelerator, and other cryptographic functions. When used with a host microcontroller, it enables features such as secure boot and CAN (Controller Area Network) message authentication. For CAN message authentication, a MAC (Message Authentication Code) is attached at an appropriate time to convert the CAN 2.0 message to the CAN-FD (CAN Flexible Data) class.
Microchip provides a comprehensive approach to automotive security. The TA/BSD Emulation Kit enables OEMs to continue using existing Microcontrollers (MCUs) through a companion mechanism, and allows existing MCU firmware to obtain essential safety standard certifications by adding a companion chip later. This chip is provided to customers pre-programmed and includes built-in security features that support hardware-based key protection. Using these add-on techniques can significantly reduce costs and time-to-market compared to extensively redesigning the system using high-end security MCUs. This may involve extensively reconfiguring the MCU firmware to implement security domains that include hardware and software domains.

Because the tool can be used with all ECUs, architectures, configurations, or buses, security can be flexibly implemented within existing systems without major redesign. The companion chip solution requires minimal MCU code updates, minimizing the impact on the functional safety rating of existing host MCUs. Furthermore, this method does not require in-house security expertise. An online Graphical User Interface (GUI) is provided, allowing users to utilize pre-configured options for easy and rapid implementation.

"With the advancement of AI and the rising levels of automation and autonomous vehicles, automotive network security has become an essential task for the industry," said Nuri Dagdeviren, Vice President of Microchip's Security Products Group. "Microchip's automotive development kits provide OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers with the tools necessary to immediately implement security functions in existing automotive networks through flexible add-on techniques."