Attack Graph Generation via Node Coupling and Prerequisite Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large private networks are difficult to secure due to vulnerabilities that allow cyber attackers to gain access, and existing attack graph generation methods are impractical for large networks as they become cumbersome and computationally intensive, failing to efficiently represent all possible attack paths and vulnerabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method for generating a multiple-prerequisite attack graph that includes state nodes, prerequisite nodes, and vulnerability instance nodes, where edges represent connections between nodes rather than specific vulnerabilities, allowing for the efficient representation of complex networks by coupling nodes based on preconditions and generating new nodes as needed, reducing redundant structure and computational requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional attack graph generation methods are used to represent all possible attack paths and vulnerabilities in large networks, then the completeness of attack path representation is improved, but the computational complexity and graph size become unmanageably large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the attack graph into distinct node types (state nodes, vulnerability instance nodes, prerequisite nodes) and uses a layered structure to represent different aspects of the attack graph. This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity by organizing information hierarchically rather than presenting a monolithic complete graph.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent generates attack graphs partially by focusing on specific attack paths and vulnerabilities rather than attempting to represent all possible attack paths simultaneously. The system can generate graphs tailored to specific security assessment scenarios, providing sufficient detail for analysis without the overhead of complete graph generation.
2Measurement precision
If attack graphs are regenerated to reflect network changes or updated vulnerability information, then the accuracy of vulnerability analysis is improved, but the time required for analysis increases due to full graph regeneration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-processes vulnerability information and network topology data to create a structured representation that can be efficiently updated. By preparing the graph structure in advance with modular components, the system can quickly adjust and update the graph without regenerating it entirely when new vulnerability information becomes available.
Solution Approach 2:
The attack graph is designed as a dynamic structure that can be efficiently updated and modified rather than regenerated from scratch. The modular node and edge design allows for incremental changes to reflect network topology changes or updated vulnerability data, maintaining accuracy while reducing computational overhead.
3Reliability
If detailed vulnerability information and attack paths are included in the attack graph, then the thoroughness of security assessment is improved, but the ease of processing and analyzing the graph deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the attack graph into semantically distinct node types (state nodes for system states, vulnerability instance nodes for specific vulnerabilities, prerequisite nodes for conditions) and uses standardized edge relationships. This segmentation makes the graph easier to process algorithmically while maintaining thoroughness, as each node type can be handled by specialized processing logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameterized node and edge definitions that allow the graph to be processed efficiently through standardized operations. By defining nodes and edges with consistent parameter structures (such as preconditions, effects, and relationships), the system can perform security assessments through systematic parameter comparison rather than complex graph traversal, improving ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a method to generate an attack graph includes determining if a potential node provides a first precondition equivalent to one of preconditions provided by a group of preexisting nodes on the attack graph. The group of preexisting nodes includes a first state node, a first vulnerability instance node, a first prerequisite node, and a second state node. The method also includes, if the first precondition is equivalent to one of the preconditions provided by the group of preexisting nodes, coupling a current node to a preexisting node providing the precondition equivalent to the first precondition using a first edge and if the first precondition is not equivalent to one of the preconditions provided by the group of preexisting nodes, generating the potential node as a new node on the attack graph and coupling the new node to the current node using a second edge.