Decentralized Software Update System via Blockchain and DHT
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current software update methods for large-scale infrastructures are insecure and inefficient, as they rely on centralized systems that can be vulnerable to hacking and man-in-the-middle attacks, especially in decentralized environments like IoT networks, where maintaining device and version information is complex and prone to falsification.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a blockchain-based decentralized automated software update system that uses hashes of software builds stored on a blockchain and binary representations stored in a distributed hash table (DHT), ensuring data immutability and security through proof-of-work and regression testing, while leveraging a 'zeuS' blockchain for increased trust and scalability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If centralized software update systems are used, then update distribution is simplified, but security is compromised due to vulnerability to hacking and man-in-the-middle attacks
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the update distribution architecture into decentralized nodes across the network, eliminating the single point of control in centralized systems. Each node independently verifies and distributes updates, preventing centralized vulnerability exploitation while maintaining distribution efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces blockchain technology as an intermediary layer that mediates between update sources and devices. The blockchain provides immutable verification of update integrity, acting as a trusted mediator that prevents tampering without requiring centralized control, thus enhancing security while preserving ease of distribution.
2Productivity
If automated patch updates are implemented, then update burden is reduced, but security is compromised as hackers can simulate the organization's approach to distribute harmful software
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where devices continuously report their update status and the network verifies update authenticity through blockchain consensus. This feedback loop ensures that automated updates are constantly monitored and verified, preventing malicious software from exploiting automation while maintaining high update efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-logging all software updates and their hashes in the blockchain before distribution. This creates a trusted baseline that automated systems can verify against, ensuring that only authenticated updates are installed. The preliminary blockchain recording prevents hackers from injecting malicious software even when automation is enabled.
3Device complexity
If device and version information is maintained centrally, then tracking is simplified, but the system becomes vulnerable to falsification and attacks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized information repository into distributed blockchain nodes across the network. Each node maintains a copy of the update ledger, eliminating the single point of failure in centralized systems. This segmentation maintains tracking simplicity through standardized protocols while preventing falsification through distributed consensus verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses homogeneous data structures (standardized hashes and metadata formats) across all blockchain nodes to maintain information consistency. This homogeneity simplifies information management by providing uniform access patterns while enhancing data integrity through cryptographic verification that works identically across all distributed nodes.
Data Source
AI summary
A blockchain of transactions may be referenced for various purposes and may be later accessed by interested parties for ledger verification. One example operation may comprise one or more of identifying an updated software build, creating a hash based on the updated software build, storing the hash of the updated software build in a blockchain, and storing a binary representation of the updated software build in a distributed hash table (DHT).