Abstract: The invention relates to devices, methods, and computer program products for secure data communication according to a network protocol having a plurality of communication layers layered into a protocol stack. Said device comprises a processor system, in which a processor, controlled by a task scheduler, executes a plurality of autonomous software modules, which each run a communication layer of the protocol stack. The software modules are linked via communication channels to the protocol stack and the protocol stack is connected to an interface framework for data communication with an external network. At least one software module uses an assigned cryptographic key for secure data communication in its communication layer. The task scheduler is configured to obtain said key from the external network via the interface framework and to distribute said key to the assigned software module.

Abstract: The invention relates to devices, methods, and computer program products for secure data communication according to a network protocol having a plurality of communication layers layered into a protocol stack. Said device comprises a processor system, in which a processor, controlled by a task scheduler, executes a plurality of autonomous software modules, which each run a communication layer of the protocol stack. The software modules are linked via communication channels to the protocol stack and the protocol stack is connected to an interface framework for data communication with an external network. At least one software module uses an assigned cryptographic key for secure data communication in its communication layer. The task scheduler is configured to obtain said key from the external network via the interface framework and to distribute said key to the assigned software module.