Security Modules

For applications requiring additional security features, various security modules can be integrated with the Compute Blade. These modules provide hardware-based security and encryption capabilities.

ZYMKEY4 for Raspberry Pi

The ZYMKEY4 for RPI is a hardware security module that can be used to add enhanced security to your Compute Blade setup.

Features

Security Features

Hardware Security

• Hardware-based encryption and authentication
• Secure key generation and storage
• Tamper detection and response
• True random number generation
• Secure boot capabilities

Cryptographic Functions

Encryption & Authentication

• AES-256 encryption
• ECDSA digital signatures
• SHA-256 hashing
• Key derivation functions
• Certificate management

Additional Features

Extra Capabilities

• Digital wallet functionality
• Real-time clock with battery backup
• GPIO expansion
• LED status indicators
• Developer API access

Installation

Hardware Setup

Physical Installation

1. Power down your Compute Blade completely
2. Locate the GPIO header on your Compute Blade
3. Align the ZYMKEY4 with pins 1-10 of the GPIO header
4. Press down firmly to ensure good connection
5. The ZYMKEY4 LED should illuminate when powered on

Software Installation

Software Configuration

# Download and run the installer
curl -G https://s3.amazonaws.com/zk-sw-repo/install_zk_sw.sh | sudo bash

# Reboot to complete installation
sudo reboot

# Test the installation
zkifc --slot-info

Configuration

Initial Configuration

# Initialize the ZYMKEY4
sudo zkifc --lock

# Generate a test key pair
zkifc --gen-key-pair --key-name test_key

# Verify functionality
zkifc --get-public-key --key-name test_key

Programming Examples

Python

import zymkey

# Generate a key pair
zymkey.client.gen_key_pair('my_keypair')

# Sign some data
message = "Hello, secure world!"
signature = zymkey.client.sign(message, 'my_keypair')

# Verify the signature
is_valid = zymkey.client.verify(message, signature, 'my_keypair')
print(f"Signature valid: {is_valid}")

Node.js

const zymkey = require('zymkey-js');

// Initialize the client
const client = new zymkey.Client();

// Encrypt some data
const plaintext = "Sensitive information";
const encrypted = client.encrypt(plaintext);

// Decrypt the data
const decrypted = client.decrypt(encrypted);
console.log("Decrypted:", decrypted);

Command Line

# Create encrypted file
echo "Secret data" | zkifc --encrypt --output secret.enc

# Decrypt the file
zkifc --decrypt --input secret.enc

# Sign a file
zkifc --sign --input document.txt --key-name signing_key

Use Cases

IoT Security

• Device authentication in IoT networks
• Secure firmware updates over-the-air
• Data encryption for sensor readings
• Network security for edge devices

Industrial Applications

• Equipment authentication in manufacturing
• Secure data logging for compliance
• Access control for industrial systems
• Supply chain verification

Financial & Healthcare

• Payment processing at point-of-sale
• Patient data protection in medical devices
• Compliance with HIPAA, PCI-DSS standards
• Audit trail generation and verification

Troubleshooting

Common Issues:

• LED not lighting: Check GPIO connection and power supply
• Software installation fails: Ensure internet connection and run as sudo
• Key generation errors: Verify ZYMKEY4 is properly locked and initialized
• Performance issues: Check for conflicting GPIO usage

Support Resources:

• Zymbit Documentation
• Community Forum
• GitHub Examples

Security Notice

Always follow proper security practices when handling cryptographic keys and sensitive data. The ZYMKEY4 provides hardware-level security, but proper implementation and key management are essential.