Adaptive Time-Based Credential Validity for Automated Renewals
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Solution Overview
Problem
The management of time-based credentials in distributed systems is complicated by overestimated or unnecessarily lengthy validity periods, leading to increased security risks and cumbersome manual renewal processes.
Innovation Solution
A credential management system that adaptively shortens validity periods based on renewal completion metrics, automating the renewal process to improve security posture and reduce errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If credential validity periods are extended to reduce renewal frequency, then operational simplicity is improved, but security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic credential validity periods that adapt based on system security requirements and operational context. The credential management system automatically adjusts validity periods rather than using fixed durations, allowing shorter periods for high-security contexts and longer periods for lower-risk scenarios, thus resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and security posture.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor credential usage patterns, security events, and renewal performance. This feedback loop enables the system to learn from operational data and automatically optimize validity period lengths, balancing the trade-off between renewal frequency and security requirements based on actual system behavior rather than static policies.
2Reliability
If credential validity periods are shortened to improve security, then security posture is improved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service credential renewal mechanisms where the system automatically manages the renewal process without requiring manual intervention. The credential management system monitors approaching expiration dates, initiates renewal procedures, and updates credentials automatically, eliminating the operational burden that would otherwise accompany shortened validity periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by proactively initiating credential renewal processes before expiration occurs. By anticipating renewal needs and executing renewal procedures in advance, the system prevents credential expiration issues and maintains continuous security coverage, thereby reducing the complexity associated with managing frequent renewals.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual credential renewal processes are used to maintain flexibility, then adaptability is improved, but error rates increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical renewal processes with automated electronic systems. The credential management system uses algorithmic logic and automated workflows to handle renewal operations, substituting human manual processes with machine-executed procedures that eliminate human errors while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to different credential types and organizational policies through configurable parameters.
Data Source
AI summary
A credential management system with time-based credential validity period reduction is disclosed. The credential management system, responsive to determining to renew a current version of a time-based security credential, determines a validity time period length for a renewal version of the time-based security credential based on (1) a validity time period length for the current version of the time-based security credential and/or (2) renewal completion metrics for the respective credential holder. The credential management system obtains, from a credential authority, a renewed version of the time-based security credential having the determined validity time period length, and returns the renewed version to the credential holder. Receipt of the renewed version initiates performance of a deployment of the renewed credential at the respective credential holder to update use of the current version of the time-based security credential. Completion metrics are transmitted to the credential management system, for determining a next validity time.