SECURE CREATION OF A VIRTUAL NETWORK INTERFACE

摘要

A network interface device providing a set of functions in hardware and being operable in first and second modes: in a first mode, the network interface device being configured to operate with a selected configuration of the set of functions; and in a second mode, the network interface device being operable to select a particular configuration of the set of functions in accordance with configuration instructions received at the network interface device; the network interface device being configured to, on receiving a network message having one or more predetermined characteristics and comprising an authentication key and one or more configuration instructions defining a particular configuration of the set of functions: verify the authentication key; and if the authentication key is successfully verified, select the particular configuration of the set of functions defined in the configuration instructions of the network message.