Cable Isolation Device for Remote Network Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information handling systems face challenges in quickly isolating compromised computing devices from a networked system without physically locating them, as conventional methods involve powering down devices, which may result in failure to boot correctly, and remote port management can be compromised by unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
A cable isolation system with a cable isolation device that transitions between isolated and non-isolated states, allowing administrators to remotely isolate compromised devices by preventing data transmission, while maintaining device power and preventing unauthorized reconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional methods are used to isolate a compromised computing device (physically locating, powering down, or remotely turning off ports), then the device can be isolated from the networked system, but the isolation process is time-consuming and may result in the device failing to boot correctly or being reconnected by unauthorized users
Solution Approach 1:
A cable isolation device is pre-installed in the cable connecting the computing device to the networked system. This device includes isolation mechanisms that are activated before unauthorized reconnection can occur, ensuring immediate isolation when compromised. The preliminary placement of the isolation device in the cable eliminates the need for physical location and manual intervention, achieving both rapid response and reliable isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable isolation device acts as an intermediary component between the computing device and the networked system. It includes features such as a solenoid-actuated connector and a locking mechanism that physically intercepts and controls the connection path. This intermediary device enables remote activation of isolation without requiring access to the computing device itself, resolving the contradiction between speed and reliability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a computing device is powered down to isolate it from the networked system, then data transmission is prevented, but the device may fail to boot correctly and cannot be remotely serviced
Solution Approach 1:
The isolation function is segmented from the computing device itself and placed in the cable connection path. The cable isolation device includes separate functional components: a connector portion that interfaces with the networked system, a cable portion containing the isolation mechanism, and a connector portion that interfaces with the computing device. This segmentation allows the computing device to remain powered on for servicing while the cable isolation device independently controls data transmission, preventing harmful factors without affecting device operation.
3Ease of operation
If remote port management is used to isolate a computing device, then isolation can be performed without physical access, but unauthorized users may turn ports back on and reconnect the device
Solution Approach 1:
The cable isolation device incorporates a locking mechanism that is engaged when isolation is activated. This locking mechanism physically prevents the connector from being reconnected, providing preliminary anti-action against unauthorized reconnection attempts. The locking feature remains engaged until manually reset by an authorized user, ensuring that isolation persistence is maintained even if unauthorized users attempt to turn ports back on, thus resolving the contradiction between remote operation ease and isolation reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable isolation system that includes a cable that includes a first end, a second end, and a cable transmission medium that extends between the first end and the second end. The cable isolation system also includes a first connector that is located on the first end of the cable, that is coupled to the at least one cable transmission medium, and a second connector that is located on the second end of the cable, that is coupled to the at least one cable transmission medium. A cable isolation device is provided in at least one of the cable, the first connector, or the second connector and transitions between a non-isolated state that allows data to be transmitted via the cable transmission medium, and an isolated state that prevents data from being transmitted via the cable transmission medium.