Bootstrap Credential Management via Credentials-Storage Framework
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for managing bootstrap credentials in computer systems are insecure, particularly when administrators are not present, as they rely on storing credentials in local configuration files or prompting users during system startup, which is not viable in all scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A system that accesses a bootstrap credential store to obtain credentials for other credential stores, implemented as an encrypted wallet, allowing secure storage and retrieval of credentials without the need for administrator presence, using a credentials-storage framework that performs authorization checks and connects to target credential stores through a standardized service provider interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If bootstrap credentials are stored in local configuration files, then credentials can be accessed without administrator presence, but security of the credentials deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a credentials-storage framework as an intermediary layer between the application and the credential store. This framework manages the bootstrap credentials securely and provides a standardized interface for credential retrieval, eliminating the need to store credentials in local configuration files while maintaining automated access capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of storing credentials in local configuration files with a software-based credentials-storage framework that operates over a network. This substitution eliminates the security vulnerabilities of file-based storage while maintaining the ability to access credentials without administrator presence through automated framework operations.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If administrator prompts credentials during system startup, then credential security is maintained, but system availability deteriorates when administrator is not present
Solution Approach 1:
The credentials-storage framework implements self-service functionality by automatically retrieving bootstrap credentials from the network without requiring administrator intervention. The framework autonomously performs credential retrieval, authorization checks, and connection establishment, enabling the system to operate reliably even when the administrator is not present.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the credentials-storage framework with authorization policies and connection parameters before system startup. This allows the framework to automatically execute credential retrieval and system initialization without real-time administrator prompts, maintaining both security and availability.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a centralized credentials-storage framework is implemented, then credential security improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The credentials-storage framework is designed as a universal, multi-functional component that handles multiple operations including credential retrieval, authorization verification, connection management, and error handling through a single standardized interface. This universality consolidates what would otherwise be multiple separate components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining strong security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by allowing the framework to dynamically adjust its behavior based on configuration parameters such as network connectivity status, authorization policies, and connection timeout values. This flexibility enables the framework to adapt to different deployment scenarios without requiring complex custom implementations, simplifying the overall system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that facilitates accessing a credential. During operation, the system receives a request at a credentials-storage framework (CSF) to retrieve the credential. If a target credential store containing the credential is not already connected to the CSF, the system looks up a bootstrap credential for the target credential store in a bootstrap credential store, which contains bootstrap credentials for other credential stores. Next, the system uses this bootstrap credential to connect the CSF to the target credential store. Finally, the system retrieves the credential from the target credential store, and returns the credential to the requestor.