Apparatus, system and method of ensuring that only randomly-generated numbers that have passed a test are used for cryptographic purposes

摘要

A method, system and apparatus for ensuring that only randomly generated numbers that have passed a test is used for cryptographic purposes are provided. When a random number is generated, it undergoes a built-in self-test (BIST). If the number passes the test, it is forwarded to a cryptographic device to be used for cryptographic purposes. If the number does not pass the test, a signal is instead forwarded to the cryptographic device to indicate the failure of the test. In a particular embodiment, only one data line is used to forward either the randomly generated number or the signal. A selector is used to facilitate the selection between the number and the signal.