CHAPTER 1:
Product Overview
The SafeNet ProtectServer Network HSM Plus is a self-contained, security-hardened server providing
hardware-based cryptographic functionality through a TCP/IP network connection. Together with high-level
SafeNet application programming interface (API) software, it provides cryptographic services for a wide range
of secure applications.
The SafeNet ProtectServer Network HSM Plus is PC-based. The enclosure is a heavy-duty steel case with
common PC ports and controls. Necessary software components come pre-installed on a Linux operating
system. Network setting configuration is required, as described in this document.
The full range of cryptographic services required by Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) users is supported by the
SafeNet ProtectServer Network HSM Plus’s dedicated hardware cryptographic accelerator. These services
include encryption, decryption, signature generation and verification, and key management with a tamper
resistant and battery-backed key storage.
The SafeNet ProtectServer Network HSM Plus must be used with one of SafeNet’s high-level cryptographic
APIs. The following table shows the provider types and their corresponding SafeNet APIs:
API
SafeNet Product Required
PKCS #11
SafeNet ProtectToolkit-C
JCA / JCE
SafeNet ProtectToolkit-J
Microsoft IIS and CA
SafeNet ProtectToolkit-M
These APIs interface directly with the product’s FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified core using high-speed DES and
RSA hardware-based cryptographic processing. Key storage is tamper-resistant and battery-backed.
A smart card reader, supplied with the HSM, allows for the secure loading and backup of keys.
Physical Features
The standard appliance is the 1U-high, rack-mount device:
Here are some of the physical features of the SafeNet ProtectServer Network HSM Plus:
Front panel view
The features on the front panel of the SafeNet ProtectServer Network HSM Plus are illustrated below:
SafeNet ProtectToolkit 5.8 Installation and Configuration Guide
007-013682-006 Rev. A 08 January 2020 Copyright 2009-2020 Gemalto
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