APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DISTRIBUTING PRIVATE KEYS TO AN ENTITY WITH MINIMAL SECRET, UNIQUE INFORMATION

In some embodiments, a method and apparatus for distributing private keys to an entity with minimal secret, unique information are described. In one embodiment, the method includes the storage of a chip secret key within a manufactured chip. Once the chip secret key is stored or programmed within the chip, the chip is sent to a system original equipment manufacturer (OEM) in order to integrate the chip within a system or device. Subsequently, a private key is generated for the chip by a key distribution facility (KDF) according to a key request received from the system OEM. In one embodiment, the KDF is the chip manufacturer. Other embodiments are described and claims.