Design high-confidence computers using trusted instructional set architecture and emulators

Abstract

High-confidence computing relies on trusted instructional set architecture, sealed kernels, and secure operating systems. Cloud computing depends on trusted systems for virtualization tasks. Branch predictions and pipelines are essential in improving performance of a CPU/GPU. But Spectre and Meltdown make modern processors vulnerable to be exploited. Disabling the prediction and pipeline is definitely not a good solution. On the other hand, current software patches can only address non-essential issues around Meltdown. This paper introduces a holistic approach in trusted computer architecture design and emulation.