Security IP solutions for new SHA-3 cryptographic hash standard

Hash algorithms transform digital messages into a short message digest for use in digital signatures and other security applications. A change in the original message text creates a change in the digest, which makes it easier to detect modifications to the original message. The DesignWare SHA-3 Cryptography IP provides exceptional performance in specific hardware implementations compared to the prior generation SHA-2 algorithm. The SHA-3 IP is based on the Keccak hash scheme, which uses a new ‘sponge construction’ domain extender that can be adjusted to trade security strength for higher throughput, generating larger or smaller hash outputs as needed. The DesignWare Cryptography IP solutions for SHA-3 do not replace the SHA-2 family of hash functions, which remains secure and viable, but instead provides chipset vendors and device manufacturers with an alternative solution to future-proof their devices.

"As it's increasingly important to secure devices against the growing number of data breaches and malicious attacks, IP providers need to stay ahead of the security standards," said John Koeter, Vice President of Marketing for IP and Prototyping, Synopsys. "Synopsys' DesignWare Security IP solutions for the new SHA-3 algorithm enable developers to incorporate the necessary IP early in their development process and protect devices against future security vulnerabilities."

The DesignWare SHA-3 Security IP is scheduled to be available in November 2015 as a standalone configurable hash core, as part of the cryptography software library or integrated in a security subsystem.