SCinterface VSC

Enables TPM-based virtual smartcards for certificate-based authentication without physical tokens.

Overview

Extending smartcard security beyond physical tokens

SCinterface VSC is an extension enabling virtual smartcards using Trusted Platform Module technology. It supports TPM-based, hybrid, and file-based credential storage and integrates with enterprise environments using standard interfaces. The technical scope includes a virtual credential layer that extends the capabilities of the middleware.

Close-up of man holding ID card

Key Features

What sets SCinterface VSC apart

TPM-based smartcard emulation

TPM-based smartcard emulation

SCinterface VSC enables the TPM of a device to be used like a smartcard. All smartcard functions are emulated.

Hybrid deployment models

Hybrid deployment models

SCinterface VSC supports the smartcard file system defined in the ISO/IEC 7816 and PKCS#15 standards. Unlike the Microsoft VSC, all functions are available.

Integration via standard crypto APIs

Integration via standard crypto APIs

SCinterface VSC supports different key formats. The Microsoft VSC, on the other hand, requires a FIPS-186-4-compliant format, which can lead to incompatibilities, especially with older keys.

Benefits

Strengthening security and privacy protection

R

Reduced dependency on physical tokens

Enables using a device's Trusted Platform Module (TPM) directly like a physical smart card, emulating all smart card functions without requiring hardware cards.

S

Strong protection of key material

Works in TPM-only, hybrid, or non-TPM modes (using encrypted file-system storage secured by PIN/PUK or hardware-bound IDs), eliminating the operational overhead of distributing and handling physical tokens.

I

Improved flexibility for deployment

Serves as a full replacement for discontinued Microsoft Virtual Smart Cards (MS VSC) while operating seamlessly alongside over 100 physical smart cards and tokens.

Why Eviden

Why choose Eviden SCinterface VSC?

Proof & Evidence

Built on proven Eviden SCinterface technology used by large enterprise.

  • Certifications and compliance: Adheres to international standards including ISO/IEC 7816, ISO/IEC 19794-2, and PKCS specifications (#10, #11, #12, #15)
  • Installed base: Proven track record spanning nearly two decades across enterprises, public authorities, and national electronic identity cards
  • Enterprise references: Trusted by Allianz (multi-application smartcards), the European Patent Office (online patent filing without vendor lock-in), and global energy suppliers (secure access and digital signatures)
  • Standards leadership: Supports standard and extended crypto algorithms including TPM 2.0-backed RSA/ECC as well as Botan-powered Brainpool ECC and up to 4K RSA

Key differentiators

  • Supports TPM and non-TPM modes
  • Hybrid architecture
  • Migration path from Microsoft VSC

 

Architecture & Integration

  • Runs on Windows and Linux
  • Integrates with SCinterface
  • Standards: PKCS, ISO

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

SCinterface Virtual Smartcard (VSC) is a software-based smartcard solution that replaces physical smartcards by securely storing cryptographic keys in a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) or protected software container. It enables certificate-based authentication, digital signatures, and encryption while maintaining compatibility with enterprise applications and standard smartcard interfaces.

SCinterface VSC uses TPM 2.0 hardware security technology to protect private keys against theft and tampering. It supports strong two-factor authentication, advanced cryptographic algorithms, and secure credential management, making it suitable for enterprises, public sector organizations, and regulated industries requiring high security standards.

SCinterface VSC eliminates the need for physical smartcards and card readers while delivering the same security benefits. Organizations benefit from simplified deployment, lower operational costs, easier remote work support, seamless integration with Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI), and a flexible migration path from Microsoft Virtual Smartcard environments.

SCinterface Virtual Smartcard supports Windows 10, Windows 11, major Linux distributions including Ubuntu, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Debian, Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux, and OpenSUSE, as well as macOS. It integrates with enterprise infrastructures through standard interfaces such as PKCS#11, Microsoft CAPI/CNG, and PC/SC, ensuring broad application compatibility.

Solution

SCinterface VSC

The use of a physical smartcard is not always feasible. SCinterface VSC makes it possible to use a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) like a smartcard. The use without a TPM or in a hybrid mode is equally supported. SCinterface VSC, an extension of the proven smartcard middleware SCinterface, offers more than the discontinued Microsoft VSC and allows a smooth migration.

Eviden SCinterface VSC - factsheet

How can Eviden support you?

Speak with an expert

Our experts are here to discuss your challenges and design solutions tailored to your organization’s specific needs.