Method and apparatus for secure execution of software prior to a computer system being powered down or entering a low energy consumption mode

TLDR: In this paper, the authors present a system that automatically and securely executes registered programs immediately prior to a transition to a reduced energy consumption state using a registry table specifying registered programs and a secure modification detection value for each registered program.

Abstract: A computer system that automatically and securely executes registered programs immediately prior to a transition to a reduced energy consumption state. A registrar table specifying registered programs and a secure modification detection value for each registered program are maintained in system management mode memory or other secure memory space in the computer system. A system management interrupt is generated following a request to remove power from the computer system or the occurrence of an event that triggers an energy saving mode. The system management interrupt handler routine then generates a current modification detection value for each registered program. The current modification detection values are compared with the secure modification detection values. Execution of a registered program is permitted if the values match. After all registered programs have been executed, the computer system automatically powers down or enters an energy saving mode. The computer system thereby allows secure and convenient execution of programs or commands that would typically interfere with normal computer use.