VMware, Inc.
Method for block authentication using embedded virtual machines

Abstract:

The disclosure provides an approach for authenticating a block of storage by embedding a virtual machine and an authentication algorithm into the block. The virtual machine contains the authentication algorithm. The algorithm remains opaque in its operation by hiding its execution within the embedded VM. The non-transparent operation of the algorithm prevents a malicious entity from learning how to modify information in the block and from learning to how to evade detection of that modification by the authentication algorithm. The opaqueness of the algorithm adds security to a computer storage system.