Method to support XML-based security and key management services in a pre-boot execution environment

摘要

Methods and systems to support XML-based security and key management services in a pre-boot execution environment. During pre-boot, XML console in and console out interfaces are loaded, and corresponding API's are published to enable use of the interfaces by various firmware and software components. A network stack is set up to enable XML content received at the network interface to be forwarded to the XML console in interface and XML content provided at the XML content out interface to be sent out via the network interface. Security operations may then be performed to authenticate a client system hosting the XML interfaces, to authenticate remote servers to which the client system may communicate with, and to validate boot images provided to the computer system. Key management services are also supported.