Microchip adds quantum resistance to embedded controllers

The MEC175xB family uses a modular approach, enabling developers to integrate post-quantum cryptography efficiently, offering NIST-approved algorithms, configurable secure boot solutions, and an advanced Enhanced Serial Peripheral Interface (eSPI) for long-term data protection without compromising functionality

Driven by breakthroughs in cryptographic research and the increasing demand for stronger security, the National Security Agency (NSA) launched the Commercial National Security Algorithm Suite 2.0 (CNSA 2.0) to establish quantum-resistant cryptographic standards. With quantum computing on the horizon, the NSA is calling on the data center and computing sectors to become post-quantum ready within the next two years. To assist system architects in navigating these emerging challenges, Microchip Technology has introduced its MEC175xB embedded controllers, which come equipped with built-in, immutable post-quantum cryptography capabilities, ensuring future-proof security for critical applications.

As a standalone controller, the MEC175xB family employs a modular approach for developers to efficiently adopt post-quantum cryptography, helping ensure long-term data protection without compromising existing functionality. These low-power controllers are designed with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) approved post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, configurable secure boot solutions and an advanced Enhanced Serial Peripheral Interface (eSPI).

“As the significance of potential future attacks on cryptography using quantum computing is understood more widely, the cybersecurity landscape is already undergoing substantial transformations,” said Nuri Dagdeviren, corporate vice president of Microchip’s security products business unit. “Our MEC175xB controllers, featuring quantum-resistant cryptography implemented in immutable hardware with efficient power management, are designed to equip our customers with the tools they need to navigate increasingly complex digital security requirements.”

MEC175xB controllers incorporate CNSA 2.0-compliant Module-Lattice-Based Digital Signature Algorithms (ML-DSA), Merkle stateful hash-based Leighton-Micali Signature (LMS) verification and Module-Lattice-Based Key-Encapsulation Mechanism (ML-KEM) standardized by NIST. These new algorithms with quantum attack resistance are implemented in immutable hardware to block attack paths possible on software implementations.

The controllers feature secure boot and secure firmware update schemes configurable to use either CNSA 1.0 or 2.0 or hybrid-based signature verification. Attestation capabilities use ML-DSA for signing and key generation to enhance system integrity and authenticity. At the core is an Arm Cortex-M4F processor with a Memory Protection Unit (MPU) running at 96 MHz to deliver high performance for complex computations and real-time applications. The controllers include 480 KB of SRAM, I3C host and client interfaces and an optional USB 2.0 Full-Speed interface for versatile connectivity.

Development Tools

MEC175xB controllers are compatible with MPLAB X Integrated Development Environment (IDE), and supported by example projects, such as blinking LEDs, available in the Secure Document Extranet (SDE) and external tools such as Zephyr. The controllers are also supported by the MEC1753-240 MECC (EV48H83A) development board.

Pricing and Availability

MEC175xB controllers are currently available as part of Microchip’s early adopter program.