E-Thales Hardware Security Modules (HSM)

Scalable Root of Trust for cryptographic keys in modern IT architectures

Thales HSMs (Luna series) are highly secure hardware components for generating, storing, and using cryptographic keys. They form the root of trust for encryption, digital identities, and security-critical applications in on-premises, hybrid, and cloud environments.

Technical core functions

• Key generation (RSA, ECC, symmetric) within the hardware
• Secure key storage (keys do not leave the HSM)
• Cryptographic operations: Signing, verifying, encrypting & decrypting
• Policy enforcement (key usage, lifecycle, export restrictions)
• Physical protection: Tamper detection & automatic zeroing
• Standards & APIs: PKCS#11, KMIP, REST

Architecture & Integration

• Deployment as PCIe, network or hybrid HSM
• Integration into PKI, IAM, application and cloud environments
• Support for distributed and automated security architectures
• Suitable for DevSecOps and CI/CD workflows

Performance & Scaling

• High cryptographic throughput
• Suitable for high transaction volumes (e.g., TLS, signature services)
• Cluster and load balancing capable
• Scalable for dynamic workloads

Typical Use Cases

• TLS/SSL infrastructures
• Cloud & Hybrid PKI
• Database & Application Encryption
• Tokenization of sensitive data
• Platforms with multi-tenant requirements

Security & Compliance

• Certifications according to FIPS 140-2 / 140-3
• Separation of administrative and operational roles
• Suitable for regulated environments (e.g. PCI DSS, ISO 27001)

When Thales

• Cloud or hybrid strategy
• High performance and scalability requirements
• Automated, modern security architectures

Ergonomics AG provides support for the architecture, integration and operation of Thales HSMs – manufacturer-independent and practical.