Networked Device Resource Enumeration Without File System Write Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
In networked computing systems, enumerating resources across devices is challenging due to the need for manual inspection, potential disruption of services, and requirement for system administrator access rights, which increases complexity and cost, especially when dealing with diverse device capabilities and third-party components.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight executable module, referred to as an enumeration module, is deployed on each device to enumerate resources without write access to the file system, generating a compressed and encrypted data object that can be transmitted securely across networks, allowing for reliable inventory management without disrupting device operations or requiring administrator access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual inspection methods are used to enumerate resources, then accuracy of inventory data can be maintained, but system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The enumeration module enables devices to automatically enumerate their own resources without requiring manual inspection by administrators. The module runs locally on each device, self-configures, and autonomously collects inventory data, eliminating the need for complex manual procedures while maintaining data accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary enumeration module that acts as a bridge between the device's file system and the inventory management system. This module handles all enumeration operations locally and transmits only processed data, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining measurement precision.
2Loss of information
If traditional enumeration methods requiring file system write access are used, then comprehensive resource data can be collected, but security risks and operational disruptions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The enumeration module extracts only the necessary read-only information needed for inventory purposes from the file system, without requiring write access or modifying any system files. This extraction approach maintains data completeness while eliminating security risks and operational disruptions associated with write permissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The module uses temporary in-memory data structures and transient file handles for enumeration operations, avoiding the need for persistent write access to the file system. These short-living objects accomplish the enumeration task without compromising system reliability or security.
3Loss of information
If administrator access rights are required for resource enumeration, then complete inventory data can be obtained, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The enumeration module is designed to run with standard user permissions, performing all enumeration operations autonomously without requiring administrator credentials. The module leverages available read-only access to collect complete inventory data, making the process easy to operate while maintaining data completeness.
4Reliability
If extensive communication protocols are implemented for secure data transmission, then security can be enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The enumeration module extracts and transmits only essential inventory data in a standardized format, avoiding complex communication protocols. By taking out only the necessary information and using straightforward transmission methods, the module maintains transmission security while minimizing communication complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Various systems and methods for device resource enumeration are described herein. In one example, an enumeration module may include logic executable at a networked device. The enumeration module may be configured to enumerate resources of the networked device without dependency on write permissions to a file system of the networked device, and generate a data object stored in a memory unit of the networked device based on the enumerated resources.