METHOD AND APPARATUS OF COMMUNICATING SECURITY/ENCRYPTION INFORMATION TO A PHYSICAL LAYER TRANSCEIVER

摘要

An apparatus for providing link layer security in a Physical Layer Transceiver (PHY) is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus may comprise analog circuitry configured to interface with a data transmission medium, digital circuitry configured to interface with a Media Access Controller (MAC); and a crypto engine coupled to the digital circuitry. Single interface and multiple interface schemes are provided to control both PHY and crypto functions. Embodiments are disclosed where the PHY controls the crypto device, and where the crypto device controls the PHY.

主权项

1. An apparatus for providing link layer security comprising:
a Physical Layer Transceiver (PHY) communication module configured to transmit data/control signals to, and receive data/control signals from, a Media Access Controller (MAC); a crypto communications module including components configured to perform cryptographic functions on data associated with the MAC; an interface link operatively coupling the PHY communication module to the crypto communications module, wherein at least some of the components configured to perform cryptographic functions are integrated with components of the PHY communication module;