Hardware security modules (HSMs) represent a significant and valuable asset to a company’s security infrastructure. While many organizations invest in HSMs primarily to enable public key cryptography, they often overlook another important capability: HSMs can also secure the keys used to manage credentials for multi-factor authentication (MFA). This dual functionality makes HSMs even more valuable for strengthening overall security.
Hackers Don’t Break in; They Log in
MFA is now at the forefront of efforts to accurately identify and verify individuals.
Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to verify their identity with two or more factors before accessing an app, online account, or VPN. This approach goes beyond just a username and password, making it harder for hackers to succeed. MFA is a key part of any robust identity and access management (IAM) strategy.
Government regulations and cybersecurity experts are echoing the importance of phishing-resistant authentication. Mandates already in effect include US Executive Order 14028, and DORA (Digital Operational Resilience Act) in the European Union aimed at strengthening cybersecurity resilience.
The good news is that certificate-based authentication leveraging an HSM-protected public key infrastructure (PKI) is widely considered one of the highest standards for secure authentication. To get started with certificate-based MFA, you need three essentials.
The Essentials Needed to Get Started with Certifcate-Based MFA
1. Hardware-Based Credentials for Secure Access
A hardware-based credential or authenticator enables secure login. As an added benefit, the same credential can also be used for physical access. Many vendors today provide the choice to add an RFID touchless feature to enter the office with a tap. Additionally, a smart card allows personalization with employee photos, enabling visual identification. Smart cards can also come as “virtual credentials,” where the virtual smart card resides in the workstation or laptop TPM.
2. Versasec Credential Management for Zero-Trust Security
The second consideration is a credential management system, which helps maintain control and ensures compliance as organizations scale and onboard diverse users. To future-proof your solution, choose a system that is vendor-agnostic, active with identity innovations, and integrates seamlessly with industry leaders.
Look for a solution that is quick to deploy—some products take months just to get started. Instead, prioritize one that is easy to manage daily without compromising security. Opt for a product that scales effortlessly, from small deployments to managing credentials across global and remote locations.
Versasec’s credential management, vSEC:CMS, integrates with the widest range of credentials in the market, IdPs, and certificate authorities. Versasec’s close relationship with technology leaders in the identity management space enables seamless and innovative solutions for its clients. Versasec’s most security-conscious customers include military and government organizations. The most common use cases only take an afternoon to set up, enabling quick deployment. Its intuitive interface and scalability are an excellent fit for various industries, from healthcare to technology to financial institutions.
3. Utimaco HSM for Unbreakable Key Security
The HSM becomes the trusted engine that securely generates, stores, and manages cryptographic keys, including vSEC:CMS master keys, vital for authentication and access control. By using an HSM, the master keys are protected from unauthorized access, tampering or theft, ensuring compliance with strict security standards and regulations. This solution ensures the integrity and confidentiality of cryptographic operations and credentials, significantly reducing the risk of key exposure or compromise. The integration enhances security by ensuring that sensitive cryptographic processes are carried out in a secure, tamper-resistant environment.
Seamlessly Manage and Protect Credentials with Top-Level Security
The integration of an Utimaco HSM with Versasec vSEC:CMS provides a powerful solution for securely generating, storing, and managing master keys—critical for secure credential management.
