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This work focuses on the area of authentication and machine binding using either smart card or trusted platform module (TPM) technology, or a combination thereof. It is the major objective to demonstrate the value of each of these technologies based upon selected business scenarios. Underlying trust models and architectural requirements are discussed, and theoretical background of these technologies is provided to accommodate readers with the relevant terms to follow the subsequent discussion. The major part of this thesis consists of the research, comparison and analysis of existing publications and other sources-scientific, commercial, qualified journalistic or other-to gather a foundation of information on the subject topic. The problem cases or scenarios for applicability of smart card or TPM technology are based upon that research as well as the professional experience of the author and are not selected at random. This thesis shall provide interested readers with a decision base for the selection of protection mechanisms based upon either smart cards or TPM, or both.

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