We just had our staff complete some Intel security courses and one of them strangely focused on “Intel Software Guard Extensions“. SGX is a set of security-related instruction codes built into some Intel CPUs like 6th Generation Core i5 and i7 CPU’s.
SGX allows applications to create protected areas of memory, called enclaves, which are designed to be secure from unauthorized access, even by higher-privileged processes like the operating system or hypervisor. These enclaves can be used to store sensitive data and execute code securely, making SGX useful for applications such as secure remote computation, secure web browsing, and digital rights management (DRM).
Intel SGX Birth and Near Death:
Intel has introduced several newer security technologies to replace and enhance the capabilities previously provided by SGX (Software Guard Extensions).
Some of the newer security features introduced by Intel build upon the concepts and technologies initially developed for SGX (Software Guard Extensions), while others are entirely new innovations. Here’s a breakdown:
In summary, while some of the newer security features build upon the foundational concepts of SGX, many are entirely new innovations designed to address a broader range of security challenges. platforms, providing robust protection against a wide range of threats.
In a bold move, Intel’s acquisition of McAfee in 2011 for $7.68 billion was the main strategic action to integrate security more deeply into its hardware and software offerings.
While the acquisition itself did not directly lead to the development of Intel SGX (Software Guard Extensions), it did influence Intel’s overall approach to security. The integration of McAfee’s expertise helped Intel enhance its security capabilities across various products and services.
Some of the newer security features, such as Intel Threat Detection Technology (TDT) and Intel Hardware Shield, benefit from the security insights and technologies that McAfee brought to Intel.
These features are part of Intel’s broader strategy to provide comprehensive security solutions that combine hardware and software protections.
In summary, while SGX was developed independently of the McAfee acquisition, the knowledge and technologies gained from McAfee have contributed to Intel’s overall security strategy and the development of newer security features.
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