Class-Based Key Generation for Scalable Device Service Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing device security systems face inefficiencies in managing device-specific identifiers, particularly when dealing with large numbers of devices, as traditional PKI and keying systems struggle to effectively secure services for classes of devices.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for generating secure identities and keys based on product class identifiers, using a root key and cryptographic functions to create unique keys for device classes, allowing efficient management of services without tracking individual device keys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If device-specific identifiers are tracked for every device in an ecosystem, then individual device security is improved, but system complexity and management overhead increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges individual device identifiers with service identifiers to create service-specific keys. Instead of managing separate identifiers for each device, the system combines device identity (embedded in the component) with service identity to generate a unique key pair for each service relationship, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal key management approach where a single root key embedded in each component can derive multiple service-specific keys. This multi-functional key system allows the same component to securely access multiple services without requiring separate tracking mechanisms for each service, thereby reducing management overhead.
2Reliability
If traditional PKI systems are used to secure services for large numbers of devices, then security is maintained, but efficiency and scalability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by embedding the root key in the component during manufacturing, before the component is integrated into any device. This pre-established security foundation enables rapid service provisioning later, as the service-specific keys can be derived on-demand without requiring complex certificate issuance processes for each new service relationship.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service capability where the component's embedded root key automatically derives service-specific keys when needed. The component itself participates in the key generation process by providing its unique identity, eliminating the need for manual certificate management and reducing reliance on centralized PKI infrastructure for routine operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If individual device keys are managed for every device, then precise device-level control is achieved, but overhead and computational burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the key management system into hierarchical levels: a root key embedded in the component, and service-specific keys derived from the root key combined with service identifiers. This segmentation allows device-level control to be achieved through the component's unique root key while reducing computational overhead by avoiding the need to generate and manage completely separate key pairs for each service relationship.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for key generation and device management are disclosed. A root key can be stored on a component which can be integrated with a device, and the component can store a product class identifier. The product class identifier can define a class of products, devices, features, hardware components, or other entities. One or more keys can be generated and stored on the devices based on the product class identifier and the root key. A network operator or service provider can then provide services to a class of devices that includes the device, or perform and manage other functions. The services can be authorized or otherwise implemented based on the one or more new keys stored at the devices within the class of devices.