Quantum-Resistant Logic Locking

Research Overview

Logic locking is a digital circuit design technique used to protect the intellectual property and security of integrated circuits. Many chip design companies purchase functional modules from others and request manufacturing from foundries. Due to concerns of design leakage during this process, locking is necessary. The concept of logic locking involves incorporating specific logic gates or elements into the circuit design, ensuring the chip functions correctly only under specific conditions. As shown in the diagram, a NOT gate is replaced with an XOR gate, designed to operate correctly only when a key of 1 is inputted. Our research explores ways to make logic locking more secure and reduce overhead.