A system for data processing a security critical activity in a secure
management mode in a computer, which comprises a processor (10), handling
devices (20, 28-38), memory storage resources (14, 42). The system
comprises a security device (50) comprising a processor (52) and signal
generators (SG.sub.PM, SG.sub.A), a number of control switches (60), with
signal receivers (SR.sub.A, SR.sub.PM) arranged respectively between the
security device and the pre-selected resources. The switches contain
information regarding accessibility to and from the resources, or parts
of the resources, hereafter named resource ranges, wherein the switch
controls requests from the computer processor to the resources or
resource ranges depending on the information contained in the switch, and
wherein, in response to a call from the computer processor or the
handling devices, the switches are activated by receiving a signal
(SG.sub.PM) from the security device, enabling the security device access
to and from the resources or resource ranges selected by the security
device, and denying the computer processor access to and from the
resources or resource ranges selected by the security device.