The scope of the challenge includes implementing updated hardware architecture, developing the software and system development tools that will run on it, and demonstrating its application and value in different industry sectors.

The DSbD programme has already delivered the first hardware implementation of DSbD technology as a prototype System on Chip (SoC) and development board, Morello.

Developed by lowRISC, the Sonata board is a low cost development board with an FPGA which is able to host a small system consisting of the CHERIoT enabled Ibex and a number of peripherals, such as I2C and SPI.

lowRISC® is a not-for-profit engineering company that creates and maintains commercial-grade open-source silicon designs through its collaborative Silicon Commons approach

Developed by UK-based Arm, the Morello board is a real-world test platform for the Morello prototype architecture developed by Arm, based on the University of Cambridge Computer Lab’s CHERI protection model.

CHERI extends conventional hardware Instruction-Set Architectures (ISAs) with new architectural features to enable fine-grained memory protection and highly scalable software compartmentalisation.

The future of the UK’s security and prosperity rests on digital foundations. The challenge of our generation is to build a flourishing digital society that is both resilient to cyber threats, and equipped with the knowledge and capabilities required to maximise opportunities and manage risks.

The UK National Cyber Security Strategy sets out the plan to ensure that the UK remains confident, capable and resilient in this fast-moving digital world; and that we continue to adapt, innovate and invest in order to protect and promote our interests in cyberspace.

The Digital Security by Design Technology Access Programme has been developed to build a pipeline and community of developers and technology companies to trial and experiment with DSbD technologies.

Programme participants will have access to the prototype hardware, technical guides, and funding to support an experimentation period with the DSbD technologies within their own organisations.