Command Line Protocol for Pre-OS Encryption Key Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Information handling systems face challenges in securely transferring and managing encryption keys, as they are vulnerable to unauthorized access, especially when stored locally and can be compromised during system theft or hacking.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a command line protocol (CLP) channel for communicating encryption keys and authentication information between a key management server and storage controllers within an information handling system, allowing secure key transfer prior to operating system execution, thereby reducing the risk of unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If encryption keys are stored locally in the information handling system, then key access is fast and convenient, but the system becomes vulnerable to unauthorized access during theft or hacking
Solution Approach 1:
The encryption key is extracted from the information handling system and stored externally on a removable storage device. The key is transferred to the removable storage device using a command line protocol channel during system initialization, separating the key from the main system to prevent unauthorized access during theft or hacking while maintaining accessibility when needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If encryption keys are transferred during operating system execution, then the transfer process is flexible, but the system is more vulnerable to attacks and unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The encryption key transfer is performed as a preliminary action during system initialization before the operating system is loaded. The key is transferred from the initial memory to the removable storage device using the command line protocol channel during the boot process, establishing security measures before the system becomes fully operational and vulnerable to attacks.
3Reliability
If a secure key management system is implemented, then security is enhanced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service key management where the information handling system automatically transfers the encryption key to the removable storage device during initialization without requiring manual intervention. The command line protocol channel enables automated key transfer, and the system autonomously manages the key storage process, reducing operational complexity while maintaining enhanced security.
Data Source
AI summary
During execution of BIOS at an information handling system, a processor communicates with the storage controller via a command line protocol (CLP) communications channel. Via the channel, the processor obtains identification information for storage devices associated with the storage controller. The processor communicates the identification information to a key management client, which obtains encryption keys based on the identification information from a key management server. The processor receives the encryption keys, and communicates them to the storage controller via the CLP communications channel. The CLP communications channel thus provides a convenient and flexible interface for communication of security information prior to execution of an operating system.