The A98 method of establishing a unique key per ATM avoids the management of a large number of key components or specific keys. A98 also fully supports the latest Triple-DES requirements.

Instead of generating a key and then splitting it into components, or generating components and assigning the components to a specific key, the components are not assigned until the point at which they are actually loaded into the ATM and are combined to form a unique key.

A control number identifying each component is communicated to a Tamper Resistant Security Module (TRSM) where the identified components, stored encrypted by the Master Key of the TRSM, are combined within the TRSM to form the same key that was loaded into the ATM.

With the introduction of its new "Remote Re-Key Module", A98-R automates both the generation and distribution of cryptographic keys for ATMs. A98-R is compatible with ATMs that use RSA-enabled encrypting pin-pads (EPPs). The A98-R delivers random master keys in full compliance with ANSI standards and with network mandates for Triple-DES and unique keys per ATM.

By integrating the remote re-key module into the conventional A98 platform, Trusted Security Solutions continues to lead the industry by providing the most efficient, compliant, and cost-effective key establishment solution for all ATMs. The A98-R system not only fully automates key distribution for public key-enabled ATMs, but also simultaneously supports single and triple-DES key loading for legacy ATMs.

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Related documents:
A98 System Description (486 KB)
A98 User Guide (2,337 KB)