What is Trusted Platform Module TPM?

Understanding Trusted Platform Module TPM

A specialized chip on a computer systems motherboard that stores encryption keys specific to the host system for hardware authentication. TPM is a hardware-based security component that provides secure cryptographic functions including secure key storage secure boot measurements cryptographic operations and attestation capabilities. TPMs create a hardware root of trust ensuring that cryptographic operations occur in a protected environment isolated from software vulnerabilities. TPM specifications are defined by the Trusted Computing Group and referenced in standards like NIST SP 800-147. Organizations implement TPM-based security through secure boot disk encryption credential protection platform attestation and hardware-based key management. For example a government agency might require TPM chips in all laptops enabling BitLocker full-disk encryption with keys protected by the TPM verifying platform integrity through measured boot ensuring credentials cannot be extracted even if the operating system is compromised and providing hardware-based random number generation for strong cryptographic operations. Related terms Hardware security Root of trust Secure boot Full disk encryption BitLocker Platform attestation Measured boot Trusted computing Cryptographic module.