Kernel Mode Cryptographic Module (FIPS.SYS)
Kernel Mode Cryptographic Module (FIPS.SYS), from Microsoft Corporation, holds FIPS 140-1 certificate #106 at overall level 1. The validation is historical: agencies may keep the module in existing systems but not buy it new. Below are its validation history, algorithm certificates and security policy, drawn from the NIST CMVP entry.
Caveat: None
Certificate
| Certificate number | 106 |
|---|---|
| Standard | FIPS 140-1 |
| Status | historical |
| Overall level | 1 |
| Module type | Software |
| Embodiment | Multi-chip standalone |
| Vendor | Microsoft Corporation · website |
| Software versions | 5.0.2195.1569 |
Module description
Quoted from the NIST CMVP entry for this certificate.
Microsoft's Kernel Mode Cryptographic Module (FIPS.SYS) is a general-purpose, software-based cryptographic module residing at the Kernel Mode level of the Windows Operating System. It runs as a kernel mode export driver (kernel-mode DLL) and encapsulates several different cryptographic algorithms in an easy-to-use cryptographic module accessible by other kernel mode drivers. It can be linked into other kernel mode services to permit the use of FIPS 140-1 Level 1 compliant cryptography.
Security level exceptions
- Operating System Security: Tested as meeting Level 1 with Microsoft Windows2000 with SP2 or higher (operated in single-user mode).
Approved algorithms (2)
Other algorithms
DES (Cert. #89)
Validation history
| Date | Type | Lab |
|---|---|---|
| 2000-07-31 | Initial | CYGNACOM SOLUTIONS INC |
| 2007-10-15 | Update |
Status timeline
As observed by this tracker's snapshots. NIST publishes no dates for list moves; observation began 2026-08-21, so earlier changes carry no date.
- 2026-08-21: first observed by this tracker, status historical
- Validation dates on record: 2000-07-31, 2007-10-15