Method and apparatus for improved security in a data processor

摘要

A method and apparatus for controlling access to segments of memory having security data stored therein is provided. A security check unit maintains information for a plurality of segments of memory regarding whether each of these plurality of segments has secure data stored therein. A hint directory maintains information regarding whether any of a plurality of these segments has secure data stored therein. The hint directory is capable of bypassing the security check unit when it receives an address that falls within a plurality of the segments that have been indicated as being free from secure data. When the hint directory determines that a received address falls within one of a plurality of segments that contain secure data, then the address is passed to the security check unit for a closer examination.