A hardware security module (HSM) is a secure crypto processor focused on providing cryptographic keys and also provides accelerated cryptographic operations by means of these keys. The module acts as a trust anchor and provides protection for identities, applications and transactions by ensuring tight encryption, decryption and authentication for a variety of applications. The hardware security module includes protection features such as physical tamper resistance and strong authentication. Although the module is physically isolated like smart cards and back tapes, it provides a greater level of security as it does not have an operating system and is thus virtually invulnerable to attacks over a network.
A hardware security module (HSM) provide many distinct benefits, including: “Providing certifications that conform to security standards, Dual control access protection, Load distribution and reliability, Support for all standard cryptographic algorithms, Several transactions per second, Greater availability of keys with just one hardware security module”.