Performing authentication

A system that operatively utilizes a computer-readable tamper-evident log to manage an action to be performed by the system, the tamper-evident log accessible via a network interface that is communicatively coupled to a communications network, the system comprising:

• a processor configured to:
• before the action is allowed to be performed, update the tamper-evident log by appending information about the action to the tamper-evident log;
• obtain an attestation value based on which tampering of the tamper-evident log is detectable, the attestation value having been generated using a cryptographic digital signature function, the attestation value based at least in part on the information about the action;
• and
• after appending the information about the action to the tamper-evident log, cause the action to be performed;
• the network interface, the network interface communicatively coupled to the processor;
• and
• a memory coupled to the processor and configured to store instructions for the processor;
• wherein:
• the attestation value is based, at least in part, on a nonce, a time, and a date;
• and
• performance of the action is associated with a state change being made.