A nanoflat resistor includes a first aluminum electrode (360), a second aluminum electrode (370); andnanoporous alumina (365) separating the first and second aluminum electrodes (360, 370). A substantially planar resistor layer (330) overlies the first and second aluminum electrodes (360, 370) and nanoporous alumina (365). Electrical current passes from the first aluminum electrode (360), through a portion of the planar resistor layer (350) overlying the nanoporous alumina (365) and into the second aluminum electrode (370). A method for constructing a nanoflat resistor (390) is also provided.