VLSI algorithms, architectures, and implementation of a versatile GF(2m) processor

With the explosive growth of electronic commerce, dedicated cryptographic processors are becoming essential since general-purpose processors cannot provide the performance and functionality directly needed, This paper proposes an architecture for a versatile Galois field GF(2^m) processor for cryptographic applications. This processor uses both canonical and triangular bases for field elements representation and manipulation. The variable dimension datapath of the processor is versatile enough to meet the varying requirements for different applications and environments. To provide flexibility for different cryptographic applications, an instruction set architecture is designed. Finally, a prototype VLSI implementation of the Galois field processor is presented and discussed