HP Labs Technical Reports

Providing Non-Hierarchical Security Through Interface Mechanisms

Hamilton, Deborah L.

HPL-94-104

Keyword(s):

Abstract: Common security models provide protection in an hierarchical fashion (i.e. there is a trusted core with outer circles of less secure code and data). There is only one method of providing protection. This model makes it difficult to protect code and data with multiple types of non-hierarchical policies. It implies complete trust in the core requiring thorough evaluation each time modifications are made. This paper first describes a paradigm shift to non-hierarchical security. It then describes an interface mechanism with the potential for providing an efficient, configurable and non-hierarchical security mechanism more suitable for commercial requirements.

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