TPM Configuration
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a TPM?
A TPM or Trusted Platform Module is a security chip that is integrated into the system’s motherboard that generates security information such as encryption keys and stores information such as passwords, keys and certificates. The nature of this chip ensures that the information stored within is secure from external attack and physical theft.
For further information visit the Trusted Computing Group TPM FAQs Website.
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How do I know if I have a TPM?
To verify if your computer has a TPM you can go into the BIOS and check or you may go to the vendor’s website and search for the product in question to find out if the TPM is built into the motherboard. Also, if the TPM driver is installed, then this should show up in the Device Manager (accessible from Windows Control Panel) under System Devices (XP) or Security Devices (Vista).
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How can I tell if my TPM is working?
Go to the Control Panel > Device Manager. Expand the System Devices (for Windows XP) or Security Devices (for Windows Vista) and search for the TPM device of your system, once you find it double-click on it to view the device’s Properties. If you are unable to view the TPM device in Device Manager, you may need to enable the TPM on the BIOS and possibly install the device driver software.
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How do TPMs compare with Smart Cards or Biometrics?
They are complementary to the TPM, which is considered a fixed token that can be used to enhance user authentication, data, communications, and/or platform security.
A smart card is a portable token traditionally used to provide more secure authentication for a specific user across multiple systems, while biometrics provide convenient authentication using technology such as fingerprint recognition in an increasing number of systems. Both technologies have a role in the design of more secure computing environments. In addition, both technologies are used alongside TPM applications and technology by enterprises that have varying security needs.
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Will the TPM send my private information to third parties without my knowledge?
No. The TPM is meant to generate and secure passwords, keys, certificates and biometric information, keeping them private for each individual user who is authorized to use the TPM on that system. Any time the TPM is accessed by a software request, you should be prompted for your user access password that you created during the TPM setup wizard so this way you will know when an application is interacting with the TPM. There is no inherent functionality in the TPM to periodically send information to a third party such as a government agency or your company’s IT department.
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Do Dell Latitude™ E-Family Laptops and Precision™ Mobile Workstations ship with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM)?
Yes. These business class PCs come standard with a TPM that conforms to v 1.2 of the Trusted Computing Group specification. These machines incorporate a TPM as part of an integrated security chip that also includes Dell ControlVault, a hardware container used for storing secrets such as passwords and fingerprint templates.
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Do any Dell desktop systems ship with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM)?
Yes. Certain Precision™ Desktop Workstations and Optiplex™ systems ship with a TPM. These systems do not include the Dell ControlVault. Check Dell’s website for complete specifications.
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What is the Trusted Software Stack (TSS)?
The TSS is a software specification that provides a standard API for accessing the functions of the TPM.
Please visit the Trusted Computing Group website for further information on TSS specifications.
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What is EMBASSY Remote Administration Server (ERAS) and how does it apply to TPMs?
The EMBASSY Remote Administration Server (ERAS) is a server solution that allows IT administrators to remotely manage and deploy networks of secure computing devices. ERAS interacts with systems that are equipped with Trusted Platform Modules (TPM) and/or self-encrypting drives and is constantly expanding to include new security technologies and features.
Additional Support
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