3 ms·
> These methods rely on common properties of both high-performance microprocessors modern operating systems and susceptibility is not limited to Intel processor
by infamouscow 9y ago
> These methods rely on common properties of both high-performance microprocessors
modern operating systems and susceptibility is not limited to Intel processors, nor does it imply the
processor is working outside its intended functional specification.
Given a class-action was filed after the Project Zero reveal [1], I suspect Intel's lawyers are doing everything they can to avoid any indication there is a defect in their chips.
[1]: https://www.courthousenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Intel-Flaws-COMPLAINT.pdf https://www.courthousenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/In...
- mannykannot 9y agoOne somewhat self-serving justification Intel might make for this claim is that the functional specification does not say anything about the specific behavior that is being used by the exploits. In addition, functional specifications are sometimes modified to conform to as-built behavior. When used responsibly, this is a reasonable response, and in practice unavoidable for something as complex as a modern processor. On the other hand, Intel's statements are silent about what implications cannot be found in the effort they and others are putting into mitigating this feature. Tangentially, the Titanic sailed with the number of lifeboats it was designed to carry.