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Computer and microprocessor control units that are inaccessible from the internet

  • US 7,814,233 B2
  • Filed: 09/17/2003
  • Issued: 10/12/2010
  • Est. Priority Date: 11/29/1996
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A personal computer configured for a connection to a network of computers including the Internet, comprising:

  • a microchip includinga microprocessor, the microprocessor includinga master control unit that is configured using hardware and firmware, and at least two processing units;

    the master control unit of the microprocessor being further configured to allow a user of the personal computer to control the processing units of the microprocessor;

    an internal hardware firewall that is located between a protected portion of the microchip and an unprotected portion of the microchip;

    said protected portion of the microchip includingat least said master control unit of the microprocessor andat least one of the processing units of the microprocessor,said unprotected portion of the microchip including one or more of the processing units of the microprocessor, said one or more unprotected processing units being separate from and located outside of said internal hardware firewall;

    said hardware firewall denying access to said protected portion of the microchip by a network including the Internet when the personal computer is connected to the network including the Internet; and

    said hardware firewall permitting access by another computer in the network including the Internet to said one or more of the processing units included in the unprotected portion of the microchip for an operation with said another computer in the network including the Internet when the personal computer is connected to the network including the Internet; and

    an active configuration of a circuit integrated into the microchip.

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