BITS: a smartcard protected operating system

The Boot Integrity Token System (BITS) is being developed to provide computer boot integrity and enforce access control. A prototype exists for an IBM or compatible system, although the technology is applicable to a variety of other computer systems. The basic idea behind BITS is that the host computer will actually boot from a smartcard. In the BITS system, cards are configured and issued by a security officer using the card management software provided - the current prototype is written in C to improve portability. The BITS system provides extremely powerful security at relatively low cost, measured both in terms of purchase price and setup time. The implications of this technology are impressive. The existence of instant PC access for millions regardless of location would greatly enhance the utility of computers.