6 Communication Security Modes

Communication between the device and host operates in three basic modes:

  • Standard mode — Default mode for the device after power-up
  • Authentication mode — Activated by a successful authentication sequence
  • Encryption mode — Activated by a successful encryption activation following a successful authentication

Data transferred to and from the device is handled as shown in the following table.

Table 6-1. Communication Security Modes

Mode

Configuration Data

User Data

Passwords

Data Integrity Check

Standard/Password

Clear

Clear

Clear

MDC

Authentication

Clear

Clear

Encrypted

MAC

Encryption

Clear

Encrypted

Encrypted

MAC

Note: Configuration data includes the entire configuration memory except for the passwords.
  • MDC: Modification Detection Code
  • MAC: Message Authentication Code