Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing secure, controlled access to one or more functions in an electronic system which may have a plurality of functions having different access requirements. A desired function is enabled according to the result of a first authentication process which uses a public key which corresponds to the desired function, and access to the function is authorized by a second authentication process which uses a second, private session key computed as a result of a random challenge made by the system to an external entity during the first authentication process. Additional protection is also provided against passive and active wiretapper attacks, such that only an entity that has received authorization can access the system at the correct access level.

Abstract: Methods and arrangements are provided for use in communications systems that allow for secure communication sessions to be conducted over a communications link between at least two nodes. An entity authentication process is conducted using a cryptography key. During the authentication process, a ciphering offset (COF) value is generated. Each node stores the COF value and uses the COF value to generate subsequent ciphering keys that are employed to encrypt data transmitted between the nodes. As such, there is a logical relationship between the latest entity authentication process and subsequently generated ciphering keys. This increases security and can be used to reduce overhead processing/delays associated with repeating the link or entity authentication process. The methods and arrangements can be employed to enhance security in any communications system, including a mobile telecommunications system, such as, for example, a global system for mobile (GSM) communications system.

Abstract: A method, and associated apparatus, for generating a pseudo-random number sequence. Determinations are made of compatible configurations of windmill generators for a selected windmill polynomial. Implementation of a windmill generator is made through use of word-oriented memory elements. Words stored in the memory elements are selectively outputted to form portions of a pseudo-random number sequence.

Abstract: A method, and associated apparatus, for generating a pseudo-random number sequence. Determinations are made of compatible configurations of windmill generators for a selected windmill polynomial. Implementation of a windmill generator is made through use of word-oriented memory elements. Words stored in the memory elements are selectively outputted to form portions of a pseudo-random number sequence.