Abstract: Means and methods of securing protected system files in a data processing system are disclosed, wherein the information determining access rights of system users to the protected systems files remains at all times within a secure processor. Provision is also made for allowing the display or labeling of protected data files only when markings consistent with the security level of such files are also displayed or included in the label. Furthermore, provision is also made for limiting the access rights of users to protected system files based on a comparison between the formats associated with said files and the function or subsystem performing operations on behalf of the users.

Abstract: A data processing system having an architecture for protecting selected system files. The data processing unit includes a secure processing unit operating in a manner independent of the operation of the remainder of the data processing unit for storing and comparing system file attributes and user entity attributes. The comparison of attributes is performed in accordance with a table in the secure processing unit containing the security context. The secure processing unit alone is able to manipulate special data groups called distinguished data objects. The secure processing unit also manipulates a data object identifier that isolates the identification of the system files from the actual memory storage locations. Apparatus and method are also disclosed for providing secure creation of protected system files by in part eliminates interruption, the data processing system in the process. The architecture also facilitates secure transfer of files between data processing systems.

Abstract: A data processing system having an architecture for protecting selected system files. The data processing unit includes a secure processing unit operating in a manner independent of the operation of the remainder of the data processing unit for storing and comparing system file attributes and user entity attributes. The comparison of attributes is performed in accordance with a table in the secure processing unit containing the security context. The secure processing unit alone is able to manipulate special data groups called distinguished data objects. The secure processing unti also manipulates a data object identifier that isolates the indentification of the system files from the actual memory storage locations. Apparatus and method are also disclosed for providing secure creation of protected system files that in part eliminates interruption of the data processing system in the process. The architecture also facilitates secure transfer of files between data processing systems.