Method and apparatus for checking the integrity of data stored in a predetermined memory area of a memory data

In order to achieve a secure boot process of IT systems, a verification of the integrity of a predetermined first storage area (12) of a memory (11) stored data (D) are a first means (10). Depending on the data and a predetermined integrity function, an integrity value (IW) is calculated. The verification of the integrity of the data takes place in dependence of the calculated integrity value (IW) by second means (20). The integrity value (IW) is calculated before or during booting of the first device (10) by a CRTM component in a second storage area (13) of the first device (10). A representing the integrity of integrity information can be accessed via an interface (15) to which only by the CRTM component (CK), transferred to the second device (20). As a result, an independent low-level communication channel for integrity monitoring directly in the CRTM component (CK) is provided. The communication channel may be configured in non-reactive to prevent engagement incoming paths to the CRTM component (CK).