PERFORMING OPERATIONS ON INTELLIGENT STORAGE WITH HARDENED INTERFACES

A storage device can include processing and cryptographic capability enabling the device to function as a hardware security module (HSM). This includes the ability to encrypt and decrypt data using a cryptographic key, as well as to perform processing using such a key, independent of whether that processing involves data stored on the device. An internal key can be provided to the drive, whether provided before customer software access or received wrapped in another key, etc. That key enables the device to perform secure processing on behalf of a user or entity, where that key is not exposed to other components in the network or environment. A key may have specified tasks that can be performed using that key, and can be discarded after use. In some embodiments, firmware is provided that can cause a storage device to function as an HSM and/or processing device with cryptographic capability.