Automated PSK Rotation and Distribution for Ephemeral Cryptoperiods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Distributing and rotating pre-shared keys (PSKs) is a complex and time-consuming process, leading to persistent cryptoperiods that increase susceptibility to cyberattacks, and there is a need for a more dynamic and automated method to reduce exposure to attacks and operating costs.
Innovation Solution
A method is disclosed for dynamically and automatically distributing and rotating PSKs, using a one-time-only manual configuration process, followed by an automated cryptographic process, which includes generating and transmitting PSK sets with two-time-use or one-time-use key-encryption keys, and validating these keys through secure communication associations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual PSK distribution is used, then security control is maintained, but the cryptoperiod becomes persistent and susceptibility to cyberattacks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic PSK rotation where keys automatically expire and rotate after a predetermined cryptoperiod. The system transitions from static manual key management to dynamic automated rotation, allowing cryptoperiods to be ephemeral rather than persistent. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining security control through automated policies while reducing attack exposure through time-limited key validity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service automated PSK distribution and rotation without requiring manual cryptographic officer intervention for each key lifecycle event. The automated key management system generates, distributes, rotates, and revokes PSKs autonomously based on predefined policies, maintaining security control while eliminating the persistence issue associated with manual processes.
2Reliability
If manual PSK distribution is used, then security oversight is maintained, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automated PSK management where the system autonomously generates, distributes, rotates, and revokes pre-shared keys based on predefined policies. This eliminates the need for manual cryptographic officer intervention in routine key operations, reducing process complexity while maintaining security oversight through centralized policy enforcement and auditing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary configuration where cryptographic officers define security policies and parameters in advance. Once configured, the automated system executes key lifecycle operations according to these predetermined rules, reducing the complexity of ongoing manual operations while maintaining security oversight through the initial policy framework.
3Reliability
If manual PSK distribution is used, then control is maintained, but operating costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automated key management that eliminates the need for manual cryptographic officer intervention in routine PSK operations. The system autonomously handles key generation, distribution, rotation, and revocation, reducing labor costs and operational overhead while maintaining control through centralized policy enforcement and auditing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary configuration of security policies and parameters, after which automated processes execute key lifecycle operations without requiring ongoing manual intervention. This preliminary setup reduces recurring operating costs associated with manual key management while maintaining control through the established policy framework.
4Reliability
If frequent PSK rotation is implemented, then security is improved, but infrastructure load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic PSK rotation with configurable cryptoperiods that balance security requirements against infrastructure capabilities. The system automatically adjusts key rotation frequency based on policy parameters, enabling frequent rotation when security demands it while managing infrastructure load through efficient automated key distribution and validation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments key management operations by distributing entire sets of PSKs in batches rather than individual keys. This segmentation approach reduces the number of separate distribution operations required, lowering infrastructure load while maintaining the ability to implement frequent effective key rotation through the use of key sets with multiple ephemeral keys.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and apparatus are provided for automatically distributing pre-shared keys (PSKs) in a secure communication network. A first security association (SA) or secured message (SM) is created between two endpoints based on a first PSK. Then, one or more subsequent PSKs are distributed between the endpoints with secure communication support by the first SA or SM. Based on one of the subsequent PSKs, a second security association is formed between the endpoints. Messages between the endpoints can then be transmitted with secure communication support by the second SA or SM.