Cryptographic processing is a principal enabler of many secure computing systems. Using cryptographic techniques such as encryption and secure hashing, we can satisfy several essential security requirements for networks, computers, and data against a diverse set of threats. This thesis

The current deployment of Digital Right Management (DRM) schemes to distribute protected contents and rights is leading the way to massive use of sophisticated embedded cryptographic applications. Embedded microprocessors have been equipped with bulky and power-consuming coprocessors designed to suit particular data sizes. However, flexible cryptographic platforms are more desirable than devices dedicated to a particular cryptographic algorithm as the increasing cost of fabrication chips favors large volume production. This paper proposes a novel approach to embedded cryptography whereby we propose a vector-based general purpose machine capable of implementing a range of cryptographic algorithms. We show that vector processing ideas can be used to perform cryptography in an efficient manner which we believe is appropriate for high performance, flexible and power e#cient embedded systems.