The Android Security Kernel (also known as the Security Kernel or Trusted Execution Environment – TEE) is the core security layer of the Android operating system. It is designed to protect sensitive operations and data on the device.

1. What Are Its Core Functions?

• Secure Memory and Process Protection:
  Stores sensitive data like passwords, biometric data (fingerprint, face), and cryptographic keys.

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• Biometric Verification:
  Fingerprint and facial recognition operations happen inside TEE, preventing apps from accessing biometric data directly.

• Encryption Keys:
  Data encryption operations on Android devices (e.g., file encryption) are performed within this secure area.

2. What is the Trusted Execution Environment (TEE)?
   TEE is an isolated environment within Android devices. It is separated from the main OS and is resistant to malware.

• Operates with technologies like TrustZone (on ARM processors) or similar solutions.

• The security kernel is usually hardware-backed (integrated with the chipset).

3. Android Verified Boot and Secure Boot
   Verified Boot ensures that the device boots using original, unmodified system files every time — preventing kernel-level malware.

4. How Do Apps Use the Security Kernel?

• Apps cannot directly access secure areas.

• When performing cryptographic operations (e.g., via Android Keystore), they leverage the secure kernel.

• This allows developers to protect user data at the system level.

5. Updates and Security Patches
   Google and OEMs regularly release patches to fix vulnerabilities.
   Security kernel issues are addressed with these updates.
   📌 Since Android 8, Project Treble allows faster delivery of security updates.