What Does Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Mean?
A trusted platform module (TPM) is a type of secure cryptoprocessor, which is a specialized chip used to carry out cryptographic operations like the storing of encryption keys to secure information which is usually used by the host system to authenticate hardware. The information stored does not always have to be encryption keys; it may also include passwords and certificates.
Techopedia Explains Trusted Platform Module (TPM)
The assurance for a safe computing environment as promised by the TPM is implemented using two necessary steps: authentication and attestation. Authentication ensures that a platform can meet the expectations and prove that it is what it claims to be. On the other hand, attestation is a process which supports the claim of a platform of being trustworthy enough by ensuring that there are no signs of security breaches in the system. The hardware nature of the TPM ensures that information is better protected from outside sources.