Apparatus and method for providing and authentication system

[0002] This is a Continuation in Part of application Ser. No. 08/744,363 filed Nov. 7, 1996 now U.S. Pat. No. 5,844,497.

[0003] 1. Field of the Invention

[0004] The present invention relates to information security devices, and more particularly to a method and apparatus of providing a secure authentication system utilizing a protected personal identification number (PIN) path. The present invention further relates to a method and apparatus of providing a secure authentication system using a protected personal identification data path.

[0005] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0006] With the widespread use of computers, there is an increased need for controlling access to the computers and to the sensitive information stored within the computers. To provide additional security, cryptographic tokens, such as credit-card sized devices with built-in microprocessors and non-volatile memory are utilized in controlling access to computer systems. They are typically issued to a user with personalized information and private keying material and a personal access code, commonly known as a Personal Identification Number (“PIN”). The user must present a correct PIN to the card or to a device which reads the card, so as to unlock the card for operation. To compromise a card, a malicious user must be in physical possession of the card and also know the private PIN code. Since the PIN is typically entered directly into the computer, the security of such systems may still be compromised since the PIN may be captured by software specifically designed for the purpose.

[0007] One current approach to this problem is the use of an electro-mechanical device, or card reader, into which the user inserts the token. The device is, in turn, coupled to a computer. The user must enter his PIN directly into the card reader through a keypad mounted on the card reader. The card reader then verifies the PIN with the cryptographic key on the token. If the PIN is valid, a signal is sent to the computer, which authorizes access to the card's cryptographic information.

[0008] This approach however, present several disadvantages. First, the reader must provide the keypad, the keypad interface to the card reader's processor and the software for interpreting the user's entry. This feature adds to the complexity of the device and its cost. Secondly, a separate keyboard has to be used for accepting user input or commands to the computer. As a result, the user has to relocate from the keyboard to the keypad or vice versa. If repeated attempts at entering the PIN are required, such movement may prove distracting. The use of such a device is thus both awkward and expensive.

[0009] A second approach, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,406,624 (the “'624 patent”), involves the use of a security unit that is connected between a computer and keyboard. The security unit includes a processor which stores a number of security programs for operating the security unit, controlling attached peripherals and executing cryptographic algorithms. The security unit operates in one of two fundamental modes: a Transparent Mode in which data inputted from the keyboard to the security unit is transmitted to the computer, and a Special Handling Mode in which data entered from the keyboard is isolated from the computer so that the security unit assumes complete control of data provided via the keyboard. The Special Handling Mode in effect causes the security unit to replace the computer, executing security-related algorithms and in general, duplicating the operations of the computer in controlling the input, processing and displaying of information. The control means for selecting one of these modes involves downloading cryptographically signed software from the host computer and executing it within the security unit, or the use of a switch box connected between the security unit and the computer, which enables manual selection of the modes. In the '624 patent, security key operations are performed in the security unit. These security key operations include the verification of a program's signature, ciphering and deciphering of passwords and other like operations.

[0010] This second approach also presents several disadvantages. First, since the security and peripheral control programs executed by the security unit are of significant computational complexity, it requires a powerful processor and large amounts of memory to be effective. This processing requirement, and the control electronics for a variety of peripheral devices adds significant cost to the unit, placing it out of reach for a large number of potential users. Secondly, if the control means is implemented using down-loadable software, an additional security risk is incurred since this software comes from an external source, which could be intercepted and compromised. The '624 device attempts to guard against this risk by requiring such software to be accompanied by a signature. However, this in turn limits the usefulness of the device for those applications which do not have the proper signature, and which do not have the knowledge (or code) required to interface with the security unit's processing system. If the control means is implemented using a manual switch, the operator has to be constantly interrupted to attend to the selection of the two modes, and may often find himself committing errors which hinder the effectiveness and the security of the unit.

[0011] Accordingly, there is a need in the technology for a simple, elegant and cost-effective consumer-level method and apparatus of authenticating a password or personal identification number (PIN) independently from the computer, so that access control to one or more application programs running on the computer may be enforced, while minimizing the risk of capture of the password by unauthorized users and also minimizing the complexity of user operation.

[0012] The present invention is a method and apparatus for controlling access to at least one program on a processing system by verifying data entered through a keyboard, while isolating the entered data from the processing system. The apparatus comprises a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. A first data path is provided between the keyboard and the processing system; a second data path is provided between the keyboard and the processor; and a third data path is provided between the processing system and the processor. When activated, the processor is operable in a first mode wherein access to the processing system via the keyboard is inhibited when data entered via the keyboard does not match data stored on the card. The processor is operable in a second mode, wherein the keyboard is coupled to the processing system so that the at least one program on the processing system is accessible via the keyboard when the entered matches the data stored on the card.

[0013] The features and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art after reviewing the following detailed description and accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the authenticating system of the present invention.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the authenticating system of FIG. 1.

[0016] FIG. 3A illustrates one logical state of the processor in the verification unit, representative of one mode of operation in one embodiment of the verification unit.

[0017] FIG. 3B illustrates a second logical state of the processor in the verification unit, representative of a second mode of operation in one embodiment of the verification unit.

[0018] FIG. 3C illustrates a third logical state of the processor in the verification unit, representative of a third mode of operation in one embodiment of the verification unit.

[0019] FIG. 4 is a flow chart of embodiment of the access authorization process 100 of the present invention.

[0020] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a flow chart of one embodiment of the process 200 of the present invention for creating a new user record for an uninitialized card.

[0021] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a flow chart of one embodiment of the user alteration process 250 of the present invention.

[0022] FIGS. 6C and 6D illustrate is a flow chart of one embodiment of the password alteration process 300 of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a flow chart of one embodiment of the key translation process 400 of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the authenticating system of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 8B illustrates one embodiment of a block diagram of the verification unit of FIG. 8A.

[0026] FIG. 9A illustrates one logical state of the processor in the verification unit, representative of one mode of operation in one embodiment of the verification unit.

[0027] FIG. 9B illustrates a second logical state of the processor in the verification unit, representative of a second mode of operation in one embodiment of the verification unit.

[0028] FIG. 9C illustrates a third logical state of the processor in the verification unit, representative of a third mode of operation in one embodiment of the verification unit.

[0029] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the authenticating system of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 10B illustrates one embodiment of a block diagram of one embodiment of the verification unit of FIG. 10A.

[0031] FIG. 11 illustrates a flow chart of an alternate embodiment of the access authorization process of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the authenticating system 10 of the present invention. The authenticating system 10 comprises a computer 12, a monitor 14, a keyboard 16, a connector or an adapter 18 and a verification unit 20. The computer 12 may be a general purpose computer, a personal computer or a workstation. The computer 12 may also be connected to a network (not shown). The keyboard 16 is coupled to a first port 26 of the adapter 18 via a first cable 22. The verification unit 20 is coupled to a second port 28 of the adapter 18 via a second cable 24. The adapter 18 is in turn coupled to the computer 12 via a third port 30. The computer 12 supplies current and voltage to the keyboard 16 and the verification unit 20. However, the keyboard 16 only communicates with the computer 12 through the verification unit 20. The verification unit 20 has a slot 32 which receives a card 34, such as a smartcard, a PCMCIA card or some other personal security token. The verification unit 20 also has a light emitting diode (LED) 38 which is turned on to indicate that the verification unit 20 is ready to accept information from the keyboard 16 and that any information thus communicated will not be provided to the computer 12.

[0033] The authenticating system 10 functions under the control of one or more process access control software programs (PACS) residing in the computer 12 to enable the verification unit 20 to intercept and positively verify data such as a security identification number, a password, or a Personal Identification Number (PIN) of the operator requesting control of the application software. For discussion purposes, such data will be referred to as a password. This password is entered via the keyboard 16 and provided via the verification unit 20 to the card 34, which compares the entered password to a password previously stored on the card 34. Upon comparison of the passwords, the card 34 issues a “pass” or a “fail” signal via the verification unit 20 to the computer 12, which either grants or denies execution control of application software to the operator.

[0034] Once execution control of the application software has been granted to the user, the user may gain access to the software and/or alter the software accessed. In one embodiment, such application software includes one or more applications software programs residing in the computer 12. Examples of such applications software programs include: E-mail, Database Management Systems (DBMS), Web Browsers and Servers, Electronic Document Interchange/Electronic Fund Transfer (EDI/EFT) and local security programs. In one embodiment, different passwords may be used for obtaining access to different software programs in the computer 12. In another embodiment, a single password may be used for obtaining access to a plurality of software programs. In a further embodiment, a single password may be used to issue or generate additional unique passwords for obtaining access to a plurality of network applications.

[0035] FIG. 2 is one embodiment of a block diagram of the authenticating system 10 of FIG. 1. As shown, the computer 12 comprises a processor such as a CPU 40 and a memory module 42. The CPU 40 and memory module 42 are coupled to a system bus 44. The computer 12 also includes an input/output (I/O) interface 46 which is coupled the system bus 44. A power supply 48 supplies current and voltage to the computer 12. Alternatively, the computer 12 may obtain its current and voltage supply externally, for example, from a wall unit.

[0036] The present invention is also described in reference to an operating system installed on the computer 12. The operating system supports process access control software (PACS) which enables application programs running on the CPU 40 to perform processes such as data base management, net browsing, electronic mail (e-mail), firewalls, etc. The PACS also enables application programs running on the CPU 40 to control dispatch of commands to the verification unit 20.

[0037] As discussed earlier, the keyboard 16 and the verification unit 20 are coupled to the computer 12 through adapter 18. The keyboard 16 is coupled to a first port 26 of the adapter 18 via a first cable 22. The cable 22 comprises three lines, power line 22a, power line 22band data line 22c. Power line 22ais coupled via adapter 18 to a power supply located in the computer 12, while power line 22bis coupled to ground. The third line 22cis a data line that is coupled through the adapter 18 to the verification unit 20, as discussed below.

[0038] The cable 24 comprises four lines, power lines 24aand 24b, and data lines 24cand 24d. Power line 24ais coupled to a power supply 48 (located in computer 12) via adapter 18, while power line 24bis coupled to ground. Data line 24cis coupled via adapter 18 to I/O interface 46 located in computer 12. Data line 24dis coupled to data line 22c(in cable 22) to keyboard 16. Thus, the computer 12 supplies current and voltage to the keyboard 16 and the verification unit 20. However, the keyboard 16 only communicates with the computer 12 through the verification unit 20, as described in detail in the following sections.

[0039] With reference to FIG. 2, the verification unit 20 comprises a processor 60 and a memory module 62 which includes both read only memory (ROM) 64 and random access memory (RAM) 66. The verification unit 20 further comprises a card reader/writer 68 which receives the card 34 through a slot 32 (see FIG. 1). A clock module 70 provides timing signals for the operation of the processor 60 and the card 34. In one embodiment, the clock module 70 comprises a single clock which provides timing signals for both the processor 60 and the operation of the card reader/writer 68. In another embodiment, the clock module 70 comprises two clocks, one for driving the processor 60 and the other for driving the operation of the card 34. The card 34 reads and/or writes data to or from the card 34. It also provides timing signals, ground and power to the card 34.

[0040] ROM 64 includes firmware which the processor 60 executes for monitoring the line 24cfrom the computer 12, lines 24dand 22cfrom the keyboard. This firmware performs read/write operations to/from the card 34 and the read/write operations to/from RAM 66, where RAM 66 is used as a temporary buffer for data inputs and outputs. The verification unit 20 further comprises a light emitting diode (LED) 38, which operates under control of the processor 60 to indicate that the access authorization procedure has been initiated, and that the communication path between the verification unit 20 (and thus the keyboard 16) and the computer 12 has been temporarily suspended. The LED 38 provides visual indication to the keyboard operator that they may securely enter their password via the keyboard 16. This prevents the password from being inadvertently provided to the computer 12.

[0041] Data entered via the keyboard 16 is transmitted to the verification unit 20 as scan codes, as is known in the technology. The verification unit 20 interprets the entered scan codes to identify the key the operator has pressed. As the scan codes are resolved, the characters are written to RAM 66. Once the user terminates the entry process, typically through depressing the ENTER key, software running on the processor 60 of the verification unit will encrypt the characters (password) written to RAM 66, read the encrypted password from the card 34 and compare the encrypted passwords. If the encrypted passwords match, the verification unit 20 has “authenticated” the user. It then returns a code indicating success or failure to the computer 12. Alternatively, the authentication process is performed by the card 34. In this case, upon receipt of the password, the verification unit 20 constructs the command code specified by the card 34 manufacturer for a “COMPARE PIN” command, append the password, and write this data to the card 34. The card 34 will then compare the password with the one stored in its non-volatile memory. If the passwords match, the card 34 has “authenticated” the user. It then returns a code indicating success or failure to the verification unit 20. In both cases, the number of consecutive failed attempts is recorded and the card 34 is disabled if a predetermined number (for example, 3 to 7) is reached.

[0042] The processor 60 further controls the communications between: (1) the keyboard 16 and the verification unit 20; (2) the keyboard 16 and the computer 12; and (3) the verification unit 20 and the computer 12. This is accomplished by porting data from: (1) the keyboard 16 to the verification unit 20 (or vice-versa); (2) the keyboard 16 to the computer 12 (or vice-versa); or (3) from the verification unit 20 to the computer 12 (or vice-versa), in response to commands issued by the CPU 40 in the computer 12. The porting of data from one unit (i.e., the keyboard 16, verification unit 20 or computer 12) to another unit as discussed above may be described with reference to a “logical switch” 65 as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C.

[0043] The logical switch 65 is used to illustrate the three states in which the processor 60 may operate in response to commands issued by the CPU 40. For purposes of discussion, the switch 65 has two switches, S1 and S2. In the first state, S1 is closed while S2 is open, so that there is only communication between the keyboard operator and the verification unit 20. When the processor 60 is in the first state, the LED 38 is turned on, indicating that it is safe for the operator to enter his password via the keyboard 16. In the second state, S1 is open, while S2 is closed. In this second state, there is communication only between the verification unit 20 and the computer 12. In the third state, S1 and S2 are both closed, so that an operator at the keyboard 12 may communicate with the computer 12 in a normal manner.

[0044] Thus, under the command of the CPU 40 in the computer 12, the verification unit 20 may intercept the password or Personal Identification Number (PIN) of the operator requesting control of the application software running on computer 12 and verify the password or PIN. This password is entered via the keyboard 16 and provided to the verification unit 20 when the processor 60 is operating in state 1. Upon receipt of the password from the keyboard 16, the verification unit 20 encrypts and temporarily stores the password in RAM 66. It then proceeds to read the encrypted password stored in the card 34 through card reader 68, and compares the encrypted password received from the card 34 with the encrypted password stored in RAM 66.

[0045] Upon comparison of the passwords, the verification unit 20 generates a status signal representing the result of the comparison and forwards it to the computer 12. The signal is issued when the processor 60 is operating under state 2. If the status signal indicates that the authentication was successful, i.e., the encrypted password from the keyboard 16 matches the encrypted password from the card 34, the computer 12 grants execution control of the application software to the operator. This is accomplished by issuing a command to the processor 60, which advances to state 3, where communications between the operator at the keyboard 12 and the computer 12 is established. The operator may then access and/or alter the application program(s) unlocked through the use of the password. If the encrypted password from the keyboard 16 did not match the encrypted password from the card 34, access to the computer 12 is denied. The processor 60 thus returns to state 1.

[0046] In an alternate embodiment, the password entered via the keyboard 16 is forwarded to the card 34, which compares the password to its internally stored password (state 1). Upon comparison of the passwords, card 34 generates a status signal representing the result of the comparison. The verification unit 20 receives the status signal and forwards it to the computer 12. The signal is issued when the processor 60 is operating under state 2. If the computer 12 grants execution control of the application software to the operator, the processor 60 advances to state 3, where communications between the operator at the keyboard 12 and the computer 12 is established. Otherwise, access to the computer 12 (or its application programs) is denied and the processor 60 returns to state 1.

[0047] FIG. 4 is a flow chart of one embodiment of the access authorization process 100 of the present invention. To gain access to a software application enabled with the PAC security application program interface, access authorization from the verification unit must first be obtained. This authorization is obtained as follows. Beginning from a start state, the process 100 proceeds to process block 102, where the PACS running on CPU 40 issues a command to the verification unit 20 for initiating access authorization. The card 34 may be inserted in the verification unit 20 at this time.

[0048] The verification unit 20 then proceeds to state 1, as shown in process block 104. In this state, S1 is closed while S2 is open, i.e., data is ported from the keyboard to the verification unit 20 and the communication path between the verification unit 20 and the computer 12 is suspended, which in turn suspends communication between the keyboard 16 and the computer 20. The verification unit 20 then turns on the LED 38, indicating that the path for entering the password is secure. The process 100 then advances to process block 106, where the CPU 40 directs the monitor 14 to display the message “Please enter password”. The keyboard operator then enters his or her password via keyboard 16, which is provided to the verification unit 20 via line 22c, the adapter 18, and line 24d. The password is encrypted and temporarily stored in RAM 66.

[0049] The process 100 then advances to process block 108, where the verification unit 20 reads the encrypted password stored on the card 34 through the card reader 68. The encrypted password from the card 34 is temporarily stored in RAM 66. The process 100 then proceeds to process block 110, where the processor 60 in the verification unit 20 determines if the entered encrypted password is valid by comparing it to the encrypted password previously stored on the card 34. The result of the validation process is sent to the computer 12, as shown in process block 112. The process 100 advances to decision block 114, where the CPU 40 in computer 12 determines if result provided indicates that the entered password is valid. If the CPU 40 determines that the password is invalid, it issues a command to the processor 60 in the verification unit to remain in state 1, as shown in process block 116. The operator is thus denied access to the software on the computer 12. In addition, the failed attempt is recorded by the card 34.

[0050] The process 100 then proceeds to decision block 118, where the verification unit 20 determines if a predetermined number N of consecutive failed attempts have been recorded. If not, the process 100 returns to process block 106, where the operator is allowed another attempt at entering the correct password. If, however, the verification unit 20 determines that the predetermined number N of consecutive failed attempts has been reached, the process 100 proceeds to process block 120, where the card 34 is locked and/or permanently disabled. The process 100 then terminates. This feature of the verification unit 20 ensures that consecutive tries at guessing the password can be detected. In addition, this feature of the verification unit 20 provides additional security by locking and/or permanently disabling the card 34 after a predetermined number of consecutive failed attempts has occurred.

[0051] If, at decision block 114, the entered password is determined to be valid, the CPU 40 in computer 12 issues a command to the processor 60 in the verification unit 20 to direct the processor 60 to proceed to state 3, where communications between the keyboard and computer may be established, as shown in process block 122. The process 100 then terminates. Alternatively, the CPU 40 may prompt the keyboard operator to enter a second password, and process blocks 106-122 may be repeated to provide additional security. The application software program or programs accessed by the operator upon authentication of his entered password may be used to perform cryptographic operations, such as the decryption or encryption of messages.

[0052] As discussed earlier, in an alternate embodiment, the process 100 may, at process block 108, forward the entered password to the card 34 for comparison. In that case, the password is temporarily stored in memory 36 of the card 34. The processor 35 of the card then compares the entered password with its internally stored password. Upon comparison, the processor 35 issues a status signal to the verification unit 20, that is representative of the result of the search. The verification unit 20 than issues another signal to the computer 12 indicative of this result. The process 100 then proceeds as described above. It is understood by one skilled in the technology that the status signal may be implemented as a status bit or a flag that is forwarded from the card 34 to the verification unit 20 or from the verification unit 20 to the computer 12.

[0053] In one embodiment, the verification unit 20 can perform additional security functions for the protection of application programs running on the CPU 40 in computer 12, which is in turn coupled to a computer network or system. These functions include the creation and alteration of users who are authorized to use the application programs. Examples of such functions are illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5B and 6A-6D, and discussed in detail in the following sections. The additional security functions also involve the management of cipher keys that protect other keys and the generation of session keys that are sent to the PACS residing the CPU 40 for use in preparing classified documents and files. An example of key management provided by the verification unit 20 includes the translation of encrypted keys, as illustrated in FIG. 7 and as discussed in detail in the following sections.

[0054] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate a flow chart of one embodiment of the process 200 of the present invention for creating a new user record. Upon receiving one or more uninitialized cards, an operator in a managing position, such as a supervisor, may utilize the verification unit 20 for creating new user record and to store the record on each card, such as card 34. The process 200 proceeds as follows. Beginning from a start state, the process 200 advances to process block 202, where the supervisor inserts the uninitialized card into the verification unit 20 and enters a command, via keyboard 16, for creating a new user record for the uninitialized card. The command thus entered may be entered by depressing a particular key on the keyboard 16, which is provided as a scan code to the verification unit 20.

[0055] Upon receiving the command, the verification unit 20 interprets the command or scancode to identify the key that the supervisor has entered. It then issues a signal to the computer 12 requesting the computer 12 to display a message prompting the supervisor to enter the supervisor password. The computer 12 responds by displaying this message (block 204). Communications between the keyboard 16 and the computer 12 is then suspended, and the verification unit 20 turns on the LED 38, indicating that the path for entering the password is secure (block 206). The supervisor then enters the supervisor password, which the verification unit 20 stores on the card (block 208).

[0056] Next, the supervisor enters a command for creating a subordinate user record (block 210). The supervisor first enters the subordinate user authentication number, followed by the corresponding unique subordinate user password and the corresponding number of password attempts allowed for gaining access to a particular program, or to the card 34 (block 212). When the supervisor has completed entering this information, he enters another command indicating such completion. The verification unit 20 then stores the subordinate user information on the card and then turns off the LED 38. Communications between the keyboard 16 and the computer 12 is then reestablished (block 214).

[0057] The process 200 then advances to decision block 216, where it determines if there are more uninitialized cards for which new user records have to be created. If so, the process 200 proceeds to process block 218, where the supervisor enters a command for creating another new user record for another uninitialized card. The process 200 then proceeds to process block 220, where the supervisor inserts another uninitialized card. The process 200 then proceeds back to process block 202 to repeat the blocks for creating a new user record.

[0058] If, at decision block 216, the process 200 determines that there are no other uninitialized cards for which new user records have to be created, the process 200 proceeds to process block 222, where the supervisor enters a command indicating the completion of the process 200. The process 200 then advances to process block 224, where the verification unit 20 receives the command and turns off the LED 38. Communications between the keyboard 16 and the computer 12 is then reestablished (block 226) and the process 200 terminates.

[0059] The process 200 illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5B and discussed above may be performed in an unsecured location, since the new user information is not provided to the computer 12 and cannot be captured or tampered with. However, the verification unit 20 may be configured to receive and write information regarding the new user to the card, such as card 34 without the use of a secure path. In this embodiment, the computer 12 utilized may be isolated and located in a secure room, so that the communications path between the keyboard 16 and the computer 12 need not be suspended during the entry and storage of the new user record.

[0060] After creating a new user record for a subordinate user, records may have to be updated, deleted or altered. This may be accomplished through the user alteration process 250 as shown in FIGS. 6A-6B. Beginning from a start state, the process 250 proceeds to process block 252, where the supervisor inserts the card with the information to be altered and enters a command for changing the subordinate authentication number. The process 250 then proceeds to process block 254, where the verification unit 20 receives the command and issues a signal to the computer 12, which prompts the supervisor to enter the supervisor password. Communications between the keyboard 16 and the computer 12 is then suspended, and the verification unit 20 turns on the LED 38, indicating that the path for entering the password is secure, as shown in process block 256. The supervisor then enters the supervisor password (block 258).

[0061] Upon receiving the supervisor password, the verification unit 20 compares the entered supervisor password with the supervisor password stored on the card 34, as shown in process block 260. The verification unit 20 then determines if the passwords match (decision block 262). If not, access to the subordinate user record and to the card, is denied. The process 250 then terminates.

[0062] If, at decision block 262, it is determined that the passwords match, the process 250 proceeds to process block 268, where verification unit 20 turns off the LED 38. Communications between the computer 12 and the verification unit 20 is reestablished, as shown in process block 270. The verification unit 20 then issues a signal to the computer 12 indicating that the passwords match and the computer 12 responds by prompting the supervisor to proceed with the desired change (block 272). The process 250 then advances to process block 274, where the communication path between the computer 12 and the verification unit 20 is suspended. At this juncture, the verification unit 20 turns on the LED 38, indicating that the path between the keyboard 16 and the verification unit 20 is secure.

[0063] The process 250 then proceeds to process block 276, where the supervisor enters the subordinate user's authentication number, and a command corresponding to the alteration or deletion of the user's authentication number. The process 250 then proceeds to process block 278, where the verification unit 20 deletes or alters the corresponding information. The altered information, if any, is then stored on the card 34. The process 250 then proceeds to process block 280, where the verification unit 20 turns off the LED 38 and communications between the computer 12 and the keyboard 16 is then reestablished. The process 250 then terminates.

[0064] FIGS. 6C-6D illustrate a flow chart of one embodiment of the password alteration process 300 of the present invention. This process 300 may be used by a supervisor or a subordinate user to alter his password. Beginning from a start state, the process 300 proceeds to process block 302, where the supervisor or the subordinate user inserts his or her card and enters a command for changing his or her password. The process 300 proceeds to process block 304, where the verification unit 20 issues a signal to the computer 12 indicating receipt of the command. The computer 12 responds by prompting the supervisor or subordinate user to enter the current password. Communications between the keyboard 16 and the computer 12 is then suspended, and the verification unit 20 turns on the LED 38, as shown in process block 306. The supervisor or subordinate user then enters the current password, as shown in process block 308. The verification unit 20 then compares the entered password with the password stored on the card 34, as shown in process block 310.

[0065] Next, the process 300 proceeds to decision block 312, where the verification unit 20 determines if the passwords match. If not, the password alteration process is denied to the operator, as shown in process block 314. The process 300 then terminates. If, at decision block 312, the verification unit 20 determines that the passwords match, the process 300 proceeds to process block 316, where communications between the verification unit and the computer 12 is reestablished, while communications between the verification unit 20 and the keyboard 16 remains inhibited. The process 300 then advances to process block 318, where the verification unit 20 sends a signal indicative of successful authentication of the entered password to the computer 12. The verification unit 20 then turns off the LED 38.

[0066] Next, the process 300 proceeds to process block 320, where the computer 12 prompts the operator to enter the new password. Communications between the verification unit 20 and the computer 12 is then suspended, while communications between the keyboard 16 and the verification unit 20 is reestablished, as shown in process block 322. The verification unit 20 then turns on the LED 38. The process 300 then proceeds to process block 324, where the operator enters the new password, which is temporarily stored in the RAM 66 of the verification unit 20. Next, the verification unit 20 turns off the LED 38 and the computer 12 prompts the operator to enter the new password again, as shown in process block 326. Communications between the verification unit 20 and the computer 12 is suspended, and the LED 38 is turned on again, as shown in process block 328. The operator then enters his new password again, as shown in process block 330. Control is then passed to decision block 332.

[0067] At decision block 332, the verification unit 20 determines if the two entries match. If not, the process 300 proceeds to process block 334, where the verification unit 20 turns off the LED 38 and communications between the computer 12 and the verification unit 20 is reestablished. The process 300 then returns to process block 320. If, at decision block 332, the verification unit 20 determines that the two entries match, the process 300 proceeds to process block 336, where the verification unit 20 replaces the password read from the card 34 with the new password. The verification unit 20 then turns off the LED 38 and communications between the computer 12 and the verification unit 20 is reestablished, as shown in process block 338. The process 300 then terminates.

[0068] FIG. 7 is a flow chart of one embodiment of the key translation process 400 of the present invention. Beginning from a start state, the process 400 proceeds to process block 402, where an operator A located at the computer 12 receives an encrypted message from an operator B at another computer (not shown). The operator A also receives a key K for encrypting the message from B, which was encrypted with B's private key and forwarded with B's user identification (ID). To encrypt the message, operator A forwards B's user identification and the encrypted key K to the verification unit 20 (block 404). The verification unit 20 then compares the encrypted key K with keys that are stored in the ROM 64 of the verification unit 20 (block 406). Each key on the list has a corresponding translation key which may be used in translating the encrypted key K. If the key K does not match any of the keys on the list, the process 400 proceeds to process block 408, where the verification unit 20 sends a signal to computer 12 indicating that there is no match. The computer 12 then displays a message indicating that the key K cannot be translated. The process 400 then terminates. If, at decision block 406, the verification unit 20 determines that the key K matches one of the keys on the list, the process 400 proceeds to process block 410, where the verification unit 20 decrypts the encrypted key K with the translation key associated with the matched key on the list, and re-encrypts the decrypted key using A's private key. The process 400 then proceeds to process block 412, where the re-encrypted key is forwarded back to A, and used to decrypt the message from B. The process 400 then terminates.

[0069] Other functions of the verification unit 20 include the management of cipher keys that protect other keys and the generation of session keys that are sent to the PACS residing the CPU 40 for use in preparing classified documents and files. Examples of such functions include the generation of a random number and the enciphering or deciphering of data, which are discussed in detail in the following sections.

[0070] Upon request by the operator or by an application program running on the computer 12, the verification unit 20 may generate a random number, which is provided to the computer 12. The random number may be used to encrypt messages or other keys. Since the program which generates random numbers on the computer 12 may easily be captured or emulated, this aspect of the present invention permits provides a secure means of providing session keys. The random number thus generated may also be stored on the card 34 and subsequently used to encrypt other keys.

[0071] The verification unit 20 may also encipher data provided from the computer 12, upon request from the operator or by an application program running on the computer 12. For example, a command representative of such a request is first entered by the keyboard operator. The data to be enciphered is forwarded from the computer 12 to the verification unit 20. Upon receipt of this data, the verification unit 20 enciphers it using one of a plurality of keys stored in its memory 62. The enciphered data is then returned to the computer 12.

[0072] Likewise, the verification unit 20 may decipher data provided from the computer 12, upon request from the operator. In this case, the operator must first be authenticated, using process 100 as described above. When authenticated, the operator issues a command to the verification unit, requesting the deciphering of a block of data. The data to be deciphered, along with a key identification number which identifies the key to be used for deciphering (located in the verification unit 20), are then provided to the verification unit 20. Upon receipt of this information, the verification unit 20 deciphers the data and then sends the deciphered data back to the computer 12.

[0073] The implementation of the present invention provides a simple, cost-effective and compact system that enforces access control to one or more application programs running on a computer, while requiring minimal user relocation. The implementation of the present invention authenticates passwords for accessing such application programs while ensuring that the passwords will not be tampered with by software running on the computer. The present invention also facilitates the creation and alteration of users who are authorized to use the application programs. In addition, the present invention provides a number of security functions for the protection of application programs running on the computer. These functions involve the management of cipher keys that protect other keys and the generation of session keys that are sent to the computer for use in preparing classified documents and files.

[0074] Thus, the present invention provides a simple, elegant and cost-effective consumer-level method and apparatus of authenticating a password or personal identification number (PIN) independently from the computer, so that access control to one or more application programs running on the computer may be enforced, while minimizing the risk of capture of the password by unauthorized users and also minimizing the complexity of user operation. Due to the cost-effective and compact features of the present invention, the verification unit 20 may readily be utilized in consumer-level applications such as home-banking.

[0075] The verification unit 20 described above may also be located within the computer 12, e.g., on a printed circuit board such as the motherboard. The authentication of data such as the PIN or other biometric features of a user by this embodiment of the verification unit 20, is still conducted independently of the central processing unit e.g., CPU 40, of the computer 12, as discussed in detail in the following sections.

[0076] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the authenticating system of the present invention. The authenticating system 500 comprises a computer 510, a monitor 512, a keyboard 514 that is coupled to the computer 510 via a first signal line 516, a card reader/writer 520 that is coupled to the computer via a second signal line 522 and a verification unit 540 (see FIG. 8B). The computer 510 may be a general purpose computer, a personal computer or a workstation. The computer 510 may also be connected to a network (not shown). The computer 510 supplies current and voltage to the keyboard 514 and the card reader/writer 520. However, the keyboard 514 only communicates with the computer 510 through the verification unit 540. The card reader/writer 520 has a slot 524 which receives a card 530, such as a smartcard or some other personal security token. The card reader/writer 520 also comprises a card interface 526. In one embodiment, the card interface 526 comprises a plurality of contact terminals which interface with contact terminals located on the card 530 when the card 530 is inserted into the card reader/writer 520. The card reader/writer 520 may also include other circuitry for reading from or writing to the card 530. The card 530 comprises a processor 532 and a memory module 534. In one embodiment, the processor 532 and memory module 534 are located on a single chip or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The memory module 534 may also optical storage mediums, flash memory devices and/or other machine readable mediums. In alternate embodiments, the memory module 534 also includes firmware for: generating random numbers, for implementing encryption processes (such as encryption processes performed in accordance with the Data Encryption Standard (DES), Skipjack Standard and Rivest Shamir Aldeman (RSA) Standard), for providing key exchange (such as those provided in accordance with the Key Exchange Algorithm (KEA), the Diffie-Hellman key agreement, and the RSA standard), for providing hashing operations (such as those provided in accordance with the Secure Hash Algorithm SHA-1, the American National Standard Institute (ANSI) 9.9 standard and Maximum Distance Separable (MDS) codes) and for providing digital signatures (such as those provided in accordance with the Digital Signature Algorithm (DSA) and the RSA standard). In one embodiment, the computer 510 also has a light emitting diode (LED) 518 which is turned on to indicate that the verification unit 540 is ready to accept information from the keyboard 514 and that any information thus communicated will not be provided to the central processing unit (CPU) 550 (see FIG. 8B) of computer 510.

[0077] The authenticating system 500 functions under the control of one or more process access control software programs (PACS) residing in the computer 510 to enable the verification unit 540 to intercept and positively verify data such as a security identification number, a password, a Personal Identification Number (PIN) or one or more biometric features of the operator requesting control of the application software. For discussion purposes, such data will be referred to as a password. In one embodiment, this password is entered via the keyboard 514 and provided to the verification unit 540. The verification unit 540 compares the entered password to a password stored in the card 530. Upon comparison of the passwords, the verification unit 540 issues a “pass” or a “fail” signal to the CPU 550, which either grants or denies execution control of application software to the operator. In an alternate embodiment, the entered password is provided via the verification unit 540 to the card 530, which compares the entered password to a password previously stored in the memory 534 of the card 530. Upon comparison of the passwords, the card 530 issues a “pass” or a “fail” signal via the verification unit 540 to the CPU 550 of the computer 510, which either grants or denies execution control of application software to the operator. Once execution control of the application software has been granted to the user, the user may gain access to the software and/or alter the software accessed, as discussed earlier. In one embodiment, different passwords may be used for obtaining access to different software programs in the computer 510. In another embodiment, a single password may be used for obtaining access to a plurality of software programs. In a further embodiment, a single password may be used to issue or generate additional unique passwords for obtaining access to a plurality of network applications.

[0078] FIG. 8B is one embodiment of a block diagram of the authenticating system 500 of FIG. 8A. As shown, the authenticating system 500 comprises a computer 510, a monitor 514, a keyboard 514 and a card reader/writer 520. The computer 510 comprises a verification unit 540, a processor such as a CPU 550, and a memory module 560. The CPU 550 and memory module 560 are coupled to a system bus 560. The computer 510 also includes various miscellaneous input/output (I/O) devices MISC I/O #1, MISC I/O #2, . . . , MISC I/O #N, which are coupled the system bus 570. The verification unit 540 is coupled to the system bus 570 via an input/output (I/O) controller 580 such as a keyboard controller. A power supply 590 supplies current and voltage to the computer 510. Alternatively, the computer 510 may obtain its current and voltage supply externally, for example, from a wall unit. In one embodiment, the power supply 590 also supplies current and voltage to the keyboard 514 and the card reader/writer 520.

[0079] The present invention is also described in reference to an operating system installed on the computer 510. The operating system supports process access control software (PACS) which enables application programs running on the CPU 550 to perform processes such as data base management, net browsing, electronic mail (e-mail), firewalls, etc. The PACS also enables application programs running on the CPU 550 to control dispatch of commands to the verification unit 540 via I/O controller 580.

[0080] With reference to FIG. 8B, the verification unit 540 comprises a processor 542 and a memory module 544 which comprises a read only memory (ROM) 544aand random access memory (RAM) 6544b. The memory module 544 may also include magnetic disk storage mediums, optical storage mediums, flash memory devices and/or other machine readable mediums. In one embodiment, the verification unit 540 is a co-processing unit located within the computer 510. In an alternate embodiment, the verification unit 540 is located on a single chip or on an ASIC. In alternate embodiments, ROM 544aalso includes firmware for: generating random numbers, for implementing encryption processes (such as encryption processes performed in accordance with the Data Encryption Standard (DES), Skipjack Standard and Rivest Shamir Aldeman (RSA) Standard), for providing key exchange (such as those provided in accordance with the Key Exchange Algorithm (KEA), the Diffie-Hellman key agreement, and the RSA standard), for providing hashing operations (such as those provided in accordance with the Secure Hash Algorithm SHA-1, the American National Standard Institute (ANSI) 9.9 standard and Maximum Distance Separable (MDS) codes) and for providing digital signatures (such as those provided in accordance with the Digital Signature Algorithm (DSA) and the RSA standard). The verification unit 540 further comprises a clock module 546 which provides timing signals for the operation of the processor 542. In one embodiment, the clock module 546 also provides timing signals for the operation of the card reader/writer 540. In another embodiment, the clock module 546 comprises a single clock which provides timing signals for both the processor 542 and the operation of the card reader/writer 520. In another embodiment, the clock module 546 comprises two clocks, one for driving the processor 542 and the other for driving the operation of the card reader/writer 520. In a further embodiment, the clock module 546 also provides timing signals for the card 530.

[0081] ROM 544aincludes firmware which the processor 542 executes for monitoring the keyboard controller 580 and for monitoring the signal lines 516 and 522 from the keyboard 514 and card reader/writer 520 respectively. This firmware performs read/write operations to/from the card 530 and the read/write operations to/from RAM 544b, where RAM 544bis used as a temporary buffer for data inputs and outputs.

[0082] The processor 542 is also coupled to a light emitting diode (LED) 518 that is mounted on the housing of the computer 510, which operates under control of the processor 542 to indicate that the access authorization procedure has been initiated, and that the communication path between the verification unit 540 (and thus the keyboard 514) and the CPU 550 has been temporarily suspended. The LED 518 provides visual indication to the keyboard operator that he/she may securely enter his/her password via the keyboard 516. This prevents the password from being inadvertently provided to the CPU 550.

[0083] Data entered via the keyboard 514 is transmitted to the verification unit 540 as scan codes, as is known in the technology. The verification unit 540 interprets the entered scan codes to identify the key the operator has pressed. As the scan codes are resolved, the characters are written to RAM 544bOnce the user terminates the entry process, typically through depressing the ENTER key, software running on the processor 542 of the verification unit 540 will encrypt the characters (password) written to RAM 544b, read the encrypted password from the card 530 and compare the encrypted passwords. If the encrypted passwords match, the verification unit 540 has “authenticated” the user. It then returns a code indicating success or failure to the CPU 550. Alternatively, the authentication process is performed by the card 530. In this case, upon receipt of the password, the verification unit 540 constructs the command code specified by the card 530 manufacturer for a “COMPARE PIN” command, append the password, and write this data to the card 530. The card 530 will then compare the password with the one stored in its non-volatile memory. If the passwords match, the card 530 has “authenticated” the user. It then returns a code indicating success or failure to the verification unit 540. In both cases, the number of consecutive failed attempts is recorded and the card 530 is disabled if a predetermined number (for example, 3 to 7) is reached.

[0084] The processor 542 further controls the communications between: (1) the keyboard 514 and the verification unit 540; (2) the keyboard 514 and the CPU 550; and (3) the verification unit 530 and the CPU 550. This is accomplished by porting data from: (1) the keyboard 514 to the verification unit 540 (or vice-versa); (2) the keyboard 514 to the CPU 550 (or vice-versa); or (3) from the verification unit 540 to the CPU 550 (or vice-versa), in response to commands issued by the CPU 550 in the computer 510. The porting of data from one unit (i.e., the keyboard 514, verification unit 540 or CPU 550) to another unit as discussed above may be described with reference to a “logical switch” 565 as shown in FIGS. 9A-9C.

[0085] The logical switch 565 is used to illustrate the three states in which the processor 542 may operate in response to commands issued by the CPU 550. For purposes of discussion, the switch 565 has two switches, S1 and S2. In the first state, S1 is closed while S2 is open, so that there is only communication between the keyboard operator and the verification unit 540. When the processor 542 is in the first state, the LED 518 is turned on, indicating that it is safe for the operator to enter his password via the keyboard 514. In the second state, S1 is open, while S2 is closed. In this second state, there is communication only between the verification unit 530 and the CPU 550. In the third state, S1 and S2 are both closed, so that an operator at the keyboard 514 may communicate with the CPU 550 in a normal manner.

[0086] Thus, under the command of the CPU 550 in the computer 510, the verification unit 530 may intercept the password or Personal Identification Number (PIN) of the operator requesting control of the application software running on CPU 550 and verify the password or PIN. This password is entered via the keyboard 514 and provided to the verification unit 530 when the processor 542 is operating in state 1. Upon receipt of the password from the keyboard 514, the verification unit 530 encrypts and temporarily stores the password in RAM 544b. It then proceeds to read the encrypted password stored in the card 530 through card reader/writer 520, and compares the encrypted password received from the card 530 with the encrypted password stored in RAM 544b.

[0087] Upon comparison of the passwords, the verification unit 530 generates a status signal representing the result of the comparison and forwards it to the CPU 550. The signal is issued when the processor 542 is operating under state 2. If the status signal indicates that the authentication was successful, i.e., the encrypted password from the keyboard 518 matches the encrypted password from the card 530, the computer 510 grants execution control of the application software to the operator. This is accomplished by issuing a command to the processor 542, which advances to state 3, where communications between the operator at the keyboard 514 and the computer 510 is established. The operator may then access and/or alter the application program(s) unlocked through the use of the password. If the encrypted password from the keyboard 518 did not match the encrypted password from the card 530, access to the computer 510 is denied. The processor 542 thus returns to state 1.

[0088] In an alternate embodiment, the password entered via the keyboard 514 is forwarded to the card 530, which compares the password to its internally stored password (state 1). Upon comparison of the passwords, card 530 generates a status signal representing the result of the comparison. The verification unit 530 receives the status signal and forwards it to the CPU 550. The signal is issued when the processor 542 is operating under state 2. If the 550 grants execution control of the application software to the operator, the processor 542 advances to state 3, where communications between the operator at the keyboard 514 and the CPU 510 is established. Otherwise, access to the CPU 550 (or its application programs) is denied and the processor 542 returns to state 1.

[0089] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the authenticating system of the present invention. In this embodiment, the card reader/writer 520 is located internal to the computer 510. As shown in FIG. 10A, the card reader/writer 520a(see FIG. 10B) receives a card 530 through a slot 524aprovided on the computer 510ahousing. FIG. 10B illustrates one embodiment of a block diagram of one embodiment of the verification unit of FIG. 10A. As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the authenticating system 500acomprises a computer 510a, a monitor 512, and a keyboard 514. The computer 510ais substantially similar to the computer 510, with the exception that the card reader 520ais located inside the computer 510ahousing. The computer 510acomprises the card reader 520a, a verification unit 540a, a processor such as a CPU 550, and a memory module 560. The CPU 550 and memory module 560 are coupled to a system bus 570. The computer 510aalso includes various miscellaneous input/output (I/O) devices MISC I/O #1, MISC I/O #2, . . . , MISC I/O #N, which are coupled the system bus 570. The verification unit 540ais coupled to the system bus 570 via an input/output (I/O) controller 580 such as a keyboard controller. A power supply 590 supplies current and voltage to the computer 510a. Alternatively, the computer 510amay obtain its current and voltage supply externally, for example, from a wall unit. In one embodiment, the power supply 590 also supplies current and voltage to the keyboard 514 and the card reader/writer 520a.

[0090] As described earlier, an operating system installed on the computer 510asupports process access control software (PACS) which enables application programs running on the CPU 550 to perform processes such as data base management, net browsing, electronic mail (e-mail), firewalls, etc. The PACS also enables application programs running on the CPU 550 to control dispatch of commands to the verification unit 540avia I/O controller 580.

[0091] With reference to FIG. 10B, the verification unit 540ais substantially identical to the verification unit 540. EI particular, the verification unit 540acomprises a processor 542 and a memory module 544 which includes a read only memory (ROM) 544aand random access memory (RAM) 6544bThe verification unit 540 further comprises a clock module 546 which provides timing signals for the operation of the processor 542. In one embodiment, the clock module 546 also provides timing signals for the operation of the card reader/writer 520a. In another embodiment, the clock module 546 comprises a single clock which provides timing signals for both the processor 542 and the operation of the card reader/writer 520a. In another embodiment, the clock module 546 comprises two clocks, one for driving the processor 542 and the other for driving the operation of the card reader/writer 520a. In a further embodiment, the clock module 546 also provides timing signals for the card 530.

[0092] The processor 542 is also coupled to a light emitting diode (LED) 518 that is mounted on the housing of the computer 510a, which operates under control of the processor 542 to indicate that the access authorization procedure has been initiated, and that the communication path between the verification unit 540a(and thus the keyboard 514) and the CPU 550 has been temporarily suspended. The LED 518 provides visual indication to the keyboard operator that he/she may securely enter his/her password via the keyboard 516. This prevents the password from being inadvertently provided to the CPU 550. Operation of the verification unit 540aand card reader/writer 520ais substantially identical to that of the verification unit 540 and card reader/writer 520 as shown in FIGS. 8A-9C.

[0093] FIG. 11 illustrates a flow chart of an alternate embodiment of the access authorization process of the present invention. To gain access to a software application enabled with the PAC security application program interface, access authorization from the verification unit 540 or 540amust first be obtained. This authorization is obtained as follows. Beginning from a start state, the process 600 proceeds to process block 602, where the PACS running on CPU 550 issues a command to the processor 542 in the verification unit 540 or 540afor initiating access authorization. The card 530 may be inserted in the card reader 520 or 520aat this time.

[0094] The verification unit 540 or 540athen proceeds to state 1, as shown in process block 604. In this state, S1 is closed while S2 is open, i.e., data is ported from the keyboard 518 to the processor 542 in verification unit 540 or 540aand the communication path between the processor 542 in verification unit 540 or 540aand the CPU 550 in computer 510 is suspended, which in turn suspends communication between the keyboard 514 and the CPU 550. The processor 542 then turns on the LED 518, indicating that the path for entering the password is secure. The process 600 then advances to process block 606, where the CPU 550 directs the monitor 512 to display the message “Please enter password”. The keyboard operator then enters his or her password via keyboard 514, which is provided to the processor 542 in verification unit 540 or 540a. The password is encrypted and temporarily stored in RAM 544b.

[0095] The process 600 then advances to process block 608, where the processor 542 reads the encrypted password stored on the card 530, through the card reader/writer 520 or 520a. The encrypted password from the card 530 is temporarily stored in RAM 544b. The process 600 then proceeds to process block 610, where the processor 542 in the verification unit 540 or 540adetermines if the entered encrypted password is valid by comparing it to the encrypted password previously stored on the card 530. The result of the validation process is sent to the CPU 550, as shown in process block 612. The process 600 advances to decision block 614, where the CPU 550 in computer 510 determines if result provided indicates that the entered password is valid. If the CPU 550 determines that the password is invalid, it issues a command to the processor 542 in the verification unit 540 or 540ato remain in state 1, as shown in process block 616. The operator is thus denied access to the software installed in the memory module 560 or provided via any of the miscellaneous I/O devices MISC I/O #1-N on the computer 510. In addition, the failed attempt is recorded by the card 530.

[0096] The process 600 then proceeds to decision block 618, where the processor 542 in verification unit 540 or 540adetermines if a predetermined number N of consecutive failed attempts have been recorded. If not, the process 600 returns to process block 606, where the operator is allowed another attempt at entering the correct password. If, however, the processor 542 in the verification unit 540 or 540adetermines that the predetermined number N of consecutive failed attempts has been reached, the process 600 proceeds to process block 620, where the card 630 is locked and/or permanently disabled. The process 600 then terminates. This feature of the verification unit 540 or 540aensures that consecutive tries at guessing the password can be detected. In addition, this feature of the verification unit 540 or 540aprovides additional security by locking and/or permanently disabling the card 530 after a predetermined number of consecutive failed attempts has occurred.

[0097] If, at decision block 614, the entered password is determined to be valid, the CPU 550 in computer 510 issues a command to the processor 542 in the verification unit 540 or 540ato direct the processor 542 to proceed to state 3, where communications between the keyboard 514 and the CPU 550 may be established, as shown in process block 162. The process 600 then terminates. Alternatively, the CPU 550 may prompt the keyboard operator to enter a second password, and process blocks 606-622 may be repeated to provide additional security. The application software program or programs accessed by the operator upon authentication of his entered password may be used to perform cryptographic operations, such as the decryption or encryption of messages.

[0098] As discussed earlier, in an alternate embodiment, the process 600 may, at process block 608, forward the entered password to the card 530 for comparison. In that case, the password is temporarily stored in memory 534 of the card 530. The processor 532 of the card 530 then compares the entered password with its internally stored password. Upon comparison, the processor 532 issues a status signal to the processor 542 in the verification unit 540 or 540a, that is representative of the result of the search. The processor 542 in the verification unit 540 or 540athen issues another signal to the CPU 550 indicative of this result. The process 600 then proceeds as described above. It is understood by one skilled in the technology that the status signal may be implemented as a status bit or a flag that is forwarded from the card 530 to the processor 542 in the verification unit 540 or 540aor from the processor 542 in the verification unit 540 or 540ato the CPU 550 in computer 510.

[0099] In one embodiment, the verification unit 540 or 540acan perform additional security functions for the protection of application programs running on the CPU 550 in computer 510, which is in turn coupled to a computer network or system. These functions include the creation and alteration of users who are authorized to use the application programs, the management of cipher keys that protect other keys and the generation of session keys that are sent to the computer for use in preparing classified documents and files, as described earlier.

[0100] Thus, the present invention provides a simple, elegant and cost-effective consumer-level method and apparatus of authenticating a password or personal identification number (PIN) independently from the computer, so that access control to one or more application programs running on the computer may be enforced, while minimizing the risk of capture of the password by unauthorized users and also minimizing the complexity of user operation. Due to the features of the present invention, passwords for accessing such application programs may be authenticated while ensuring that the passwords will not be tampered with by software running on the computer. In addition, because the verification unit and card reader/writer may also be located within the computer housing, the authentication apparatus may be provided as an integral system, thus reducing the time required for installing separate components. In addition, by locating the verification unit within the computer housing, increased security is provided.

[0101] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.