Securing the New Frontier: Chiplets & Hardware Security Challenges

By Saman Sadr & Richard Lin

March 12, 2024

The Importance of Security in Upcoming Chiplet Systems

In the ever-evolving landscape of semiconductor technology, the integration of chiplets and multi-die ecosystems has emerged as a groundbreaking paradigm shift. This revolution promises greater flexibility, scalability, and efficiency in designing and manufacturing complex electronic systems. However, this transformative leap forward also brings with it a host of new challenges, with none more critical than ensuring the security of these interconnected components. As chiplets and multi-die ecosystems become increasingly prevalent in applications ranging from data centers to consumer electronics, and from AI/ML and LLM’s (Large Language Models) to 5G and Automotive, the need for robust security measures to safeguard against potential threats has never been more pronounced. Balancing innovation and security in this dynamic environment pose a formidable task for industry leaders and researchers alike, demanding innovative solutions to address the intricate complexities of protecting sensitive data and intellectual property within these intricate and interconnected architectures.

Furthermore, in the context of multi-die heterogeneous System-in-Package (SiP) configurations, an additional layer of complexity emerges. These systems often require data communication with external sources or intermediate dies, making it imperative to recognize that the security challenges extend beyond the confines of individual chiplets. In many cases, data flows between different dies, necessitating secure channels for information exchange. As data traverses these externally facing or intermediate dies, it becomes vulnerable to interception, tampering, or other malicious activities, thereby accentuating the critical importance of securing not only the individual chiplets but also the entire communication infrastructure within these SiP ecosystems. This intricate interplay between security and data communication underscores the need for a comprehensive approach that encompasses the entirety of the multi-die system, ensuring that vulnerabilities at any point in the data pathway are rigorously addressed.

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