fTPM vs dTPM: Which TPM Solution Is Best for Your Industrial PC?
In today’s connected world, hardware-level security is no longer optional — especially in industrial and embedded computing environments. Whether you’re deploying systems in manufacturing, healthcare, defence, transportation, or critical infrastructure, protecting data and preventing tampering is essential.
One of the core technologies behind modern platform security is the Trusted Platform Module (TPM). But what’s the difference between fTPM and dTPM — and where does Intel PTT fit in?
Let’s break it down clearly.
What Is a Trusted Platform Module (TPM)?
A Trusted Platform Module (TPM) is a dedicated security solution designed to protect sensitive data by generating, storing, and managing cryptographic keys at the hardware level.
TPM technology is widely used to:
- Secure operating systems such as Microsoft Windows (including Windows 11 requirements)
- Enable full disk encryption like BitLocker
- Protect credentials, certificates, and authentication keys
- Support Secure Boot processes
- Ensure system integrity in industrial control systems
A TPM creates a hardware root of trust, meaning security begins at the silicon level rather than relying solely on software protections. There are two primary types of TPM implementations: fTPM (Firmware TPM) and dTPM (Discrete TPM).
What Is fTPM (Firmware TPM)?
fTPM is a firmware-based implementation of TPM functionality. Instead of using a separate hardware chip, it runs inside the system firmware — typically within the CPU’s secure execution environment. For example:
- Intel provides firmware TPM functionality via Intel Platform Trust Technology (PTT).
- AMD integrates fTPM within their Platform Security Processor (PSP).
Key Benefits of fTPM:
- No additional hardware required
- Lower system cost
- Simplified motherboard design
- Meets TPM 2.0 requirements for Windows 11
- Ideal for compact embedded platforms
Considerations:
- Relies on CPU firmware security
- Shares silicon with the main processor
- May not satisfy strict regulatory or high-assurance requirements
For many embedded, IoT, and industrial applications, fTPM offers an excellent balance between security, integration, and cost efficiency.
What Is dTPM (Discrete TPM)?
dTPM (Discrete TPM) is a physically separate security chip installed directly onto the motherboard or connected via a TPM header. It operates independently from the CPU and system firmware.
This physical separation provides stronger isolation and enhanced resistance to certain firmware-level or hardware-based attacks.
Key Benefits of dTPM:
- Dedicated hardware root of trust
- Physically isolated security processor
- Greater protection against firmware compromise
- Preferred for defence, government, and critical infrastructure systems
- Often required for certain compliance standards
Considerations:
- Slightly higher cost
- Requires onboard chip or TPM header
- Adds minor hardware design complexity
In mission-critical industrial environments, dTPM is often selected where maximum hardware-based isolation is a priority.
What Is Intel PTT (Platform Trust Technology)?
Intel Platform Trust Technology (PTT) is Intel’s firmware-based TPM 2.0 implementation — effectively Intel’s version of fTPM. With PTT, TPM functionality is built directly into compatible Intel processors and chipsets. It can be enabled within the system BIOS/UEFI and fully complies with TPM 2.0 standards required by modern operating systems such as Microsoft Windows.
Key Features of Intel PTT:
- Firmware-based TPM 2.0 solution
- No discrete TPM module required
- Enabled through BIOS/UEFI configuration
- Supports Windows 11 security requirements
- Ideal for embedded and industrial motherboards where board space matters
For many industrial deployments, Intel PTT provides secure, standards-compliant TPM functionality without increasing hardware complexity. However, applications demanding physical isolation or specific compliance certifications may still require a discrete TPM.
fTPM vs dTPM Comparison
| Feature | fTPM / Intel PTT | dTPM |
|---|---|---|
| Implementation | Firmware-based (within CPU) | Separate hardware chip |
| Hardware Required | No | Yes |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Physical Isolation | Shared silicon | Fully isolated |
| Windows 11 Support | Yes | Yes |
| Best For | General embedded & industrial use | High-security & regulated environments |
Which TPM Solution Is Right for Your Industrial System?
The correct choice depends on your application, regulatory requirements, and threat model.
- For cost-sensitive industrial PCs requiring Windows 11 compatibility, fTPM or Intel PTT is often more than sufficient.
- For systems deployed in regulated industries or high-risk environments, dTPM offers stronger hardware separation and assurance.
In industrial and embedded computing, security should be designed in from the beginning — not added later.
Speak to BVM About Secure Industrial Computing
If you’re specifying a new embedded motherboard, industrial PC, or edge computing platform, selecting the right TPM implementation is critical to long-term security and compliance. Contact us for all your Industrial and Embedded Computing needs. You can contact our sales team on 01489 780144 or email sales@bvmltd.co.uk. We have over 35 years’ experience supplying, designing, and manufacturing Industrial and Embedded Computer hardware — helping customers build secure, reliable systems designed for demanding environments.
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Contact BVM for all your Industrial and Embedded Computing OEM/ODM design, manufacturing or distribution needs. With over 35 years of experience, we supply standard hardware and design custom solutions tailored to your requirements.
Reach our expert sales team on 01489 780144 or email us at sales@bvmltd.co.uk.