April 29, 2026 /SemiMedia/ — Microchip Technology has introduced new root of trust and secure boot controllers designed to support post-quantum cryptography (PQC), as the semiconductor industry moves toward stronger hardware-based security.

The TS1800 platform root of trust controller and the TS50x secure boot family target applications in data centers, telecom, defense and infrastructure, where new cybersecurity rules such as the Cyber Resilience Act and CNSA 2.0 are shaping system design.

The TS1800 works as an external root of trust, enabling secure boot, firmware validation and device authentication. It includes hardware support for NIST-standard PQC algorithms such as ML-DSA, LMS and ML-KEM, helping systems prepare for future cryptographic risks.

Built on an Arm Cortex-M4F core running up to 192 MHz, the controller offers higher processing capability than earlier versions to handle PQC workloads. It also supports key platform security features aligned with Open Compute Project designs, including firmware integrity checks and lifecycle control. A USB 2.0 interface is added to speed up firmware updates compared with traditional interfaces.

For systems that do not need a full root of trust, the TS50x devices provide a simpler secure boot solution. They focus on signature verification using both PQC and traditional ECC P-384, allowing existing platforms to upgrade security without a full redesign. The devices keep the main processor in reset until verification is complete.

Both product lines align with NIST platform resilience guidelines and are offered through Microchip’s TrustFLEX platform to shorten development time. Their modular design allows system makers to upgrade cryptographic functions with limited changes to existing hardware.

By placing PQC support at the hardware root of trust, these controllers enable secure boot from the earliest stage of system startup, reducing reliance on software-based methods. The devices run Microchip’s Soteria firmware on Zephyr RTOS to support evolving security standards.

TS1800 and TS50x controllers and compatible evaluation boards are currently available as part of Microchip’s early adopter program. For more information, please visit https://www.microchip.com/en-us/products/security/prot