AMD announced the latest processor in its Alchemy embedded processor family today, the Au1550 “security network processor.” AMD says the Au1550 is suitable for use in Linux-based networking and remote access devices such as gateways, network attached storage (NAS) units, wireless access points, and VoIP applications. Of note, the Au1550 features an integrated Security Engine which implements the entire VPN packet protocol in hardware.

By accelerating the complete IPsec packet-processing task in hardware, the Au1550 processor significantly improves security performance relative to other network processors, which implement only selected encryption and hashing functions, according to AMD. The processor supports both IPsec and SSL types of VPN protocols and includes a True Random Number Generator (RNG). Additionally, the processor is capable of sustaining unlimited VPN tunnels simultaneously. These features are enabled by technology licensed from SafeNet, AMD says.

The Au1550 is available in processor clock speeds of 333, 400, and 500 MHz, and consumes approximately 500mW at 400 MHz.

Target device operating system support is available for Linux, VxWorks, and Windows CE .NET.

The Au1550 is sampling now, and will be available in production quantities in the second quarter of 2004. Volume pricing ranges from $21.26 to $33.75, depending on clock speed.

 
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