USB-IF Introduces USB Type-C™ Authentication Program

USB-IF (USB Implementers Forum) is one of the leading support organizations devoted to advancement of USB technology. It recently buzzed the IT world with introduction of USB Type-C™ Authentication Program. The USB Type-C Authentication Specification dictates cryptographic-based authentication for USB Type-C devices and chargers.

The USB Type-C Authentication works to empowers:

1. Host systems to secure users from any non-compatible USB chargers

2. Eliminate risks from faulted hardware/firmware in USB devices that are trying to bring down a USB connection.

3. The host systems will be able to confirm USB devices, chargers, and cables authenticity.

4. The range of entities will also include some other aspects like certification and abilities status.

5. All these activities will take place as soon as the USB is connected.

Jeff Ravencraft, the USB-IF COO and President, adds that, “USB-IF is excited to launch the USB Type-C Authentication Program, providing OEMs with the flexibility to implement a security framework that best fits their specific product requirements. As the USB Type-C ecosystem continues to grow, companies can further provide the security that consumers have come to expect from certified USB devices”.

Key Features

1. Standard protocol for verifying genuine USB Type-C chargers, power sources, cables, and devices.

2. Proper support for authenticating over the USB Power Delivery or the USB data bus communications channels.

3. Products using authentication protocol get to keep control over protection policies that need to be enforced or implemented.

4. Support 128-bit security for every single cryptographic method.

USB-IF chose DigiCert for taking care of PKI as well as certificate authority services for USB Type-C Authentication Program. As the Vice President of IoT Business Development at DigiCert, Geoffrey Noakes, says, “DigiCert is excited to work with USB-IF and its CA Program Participants from the industry at large to provide the technical expertise and scale needed for the USB Type-C Authentication Program, and we look forward to implementation.”