Device unit suitable for operation in a protected and/or open operating state and associated method

A device unit comprising a module that configures the device unit with one operating state from various operating states when the device unit is booted and/or during ongoing operation of the device unit;

• wherein a first protected operating state of the various operating states is designed to permit an execution of at least one predeterminable operating procedure and to protect it, using defined cryptographic means;
• wherein at least one second operating state of the various operating states is designed to deactivate the first protected operating state and to permit at least one other changeable operating procedure and to protect it, using predefinable cryptographic means, and
• wherein, if the configured operating state corresponds to the first operating state, the module maintains this state, or if the configured operating state corresponds to the at least second operating state, the module deactivates the first operating state and introduces and/or maintains the at least second operating state.