IDEMIA Secure Transactions (IST) has launched IDEMIA Sphere HSM, marking its entry into the fast-growing hardware security module (HSM) market. This move is the second major step in the company’s cybersecurity strategy, following the debut of its cybersecurity suite in July. The new solution aims to offer organisations flexible and robust protection for sensitive data and digital transactions.
Strengthening digital trust and security
The rise of connected devices, digital payments and increasingly complex cyber threats has heightened the need for strong security systems. Financial institutions, healthcare providers, cloud service operators, retailers and manufacturers are among those relying on HSMs to safeguard critical data and operations. HSMs work by creating, storing and managing cryptographic keys that enable encryption, authentication, digital signatures and identity protection, forming the backbone of secure digital systems.
IDEMIA Sphere HSM builds on IST’s decades of expertise in security solutions. It is designed to help organisations tackle new challenges, such as migrating to post-quantum cryptography and meeting stricter regulatory standards. The product’s architecture has been tested and validated internally within IST’s own secure operations.
Innovative architecture and cost-efficient performance
Unlike conventional HSMs, which rely on a single processor, IDEMIA Sphere HSM uses a matrix of secure elements. This distributed design adds layers of security, making it harder to compromise, while allowing the system to scale from small projects to large enterprise deployments. The approach ensures both resilience and flexibility for organisations of different sizes.
Energy efficiency is another key feature. The solution uses only half the power of standard HSMs, reducing environmental impact and supporting corporate sustainability goals. Companies can tailor the number of secure elements to match their computing needs, paying only for the capacity they use as their operations expand. The simplified design also helps cut infrastructure and maintenance costs, as it removes the need for components such as fans or battery replacements often required in traditional HSMs.
The system is fully engineered and pre-configured in France, ensuring customers retain control over their cryptographic keys and meet European data protection and security standards. It is post-quantum ready, enabling organisations to prepare for emerging threats and future-proof their digital defences.
Expanding into a growing market
The launch represents a strategic expansion for IDEMIA Secure Transactions, which already serves a broad base of financial institutions, mobile network operators and IoT companies. These industries are among the largest users of HSM technology.
The global HSM market is projected to reach US$1.2 billion by 2026, driven by increasing demand for secure encryption, authentication and digital certificates. By introducing a solution that combines strong security, energy efficiency and operational cost savings, IST aims to gain a competitive edge in this fast-evolving field.
Philippe Oliva, CEO of IDEMIA Secure Transactions, described the development as a defining step for the company. “Today marks a pivotal moment in IDEMIA Secure Transactions’ journey. Building on our proven expertise in secure credentials, we are now revolutionising the entire HSM landscape with IDEMIA Sphere HSM – a game-changing solution that delivers uncompromising security and complete sovereignty while reducing operational costs for our clients,” he said. “This breakthrough represents everything we stand for: relentless innovation to deliver cutting-edge technologies which empower organisations to effectively and efficiently protect their sensitive data.”
With IDEMIA Sphere HSM, IST is positioning itself at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation, targeting sectors where data security and compliance are crucial and demand for next-generation solutions is accelerating.
