Automated Distributed System Configuration via Contact Tokens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing distributed computing systems require cumbersome manual configuration processes, limiting their expansion and accessibility, especially as they grow in size, and pose challenges for untrained administrators to add new computing devices without errors.
Innovation Solution
An automated configuration system that uses contact tokens and identity tokens to facilitate the integration of new computing devices into a distributed computing system, minimizing user interaction and ensuring secure data transmission by verifying the identity of unconfigured devices before configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration process is used for distributed computing systems, then system security and proper operation are ensured, but the configuration process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically generating configuration data on existing computing devices before a new device is added. The configuration data is prepared in advance and stored ready for transmission, eliminating the need for manual configuration steps when the new device joins the distributed computing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The new computing device configures itself automatically by receiving configuration data from existing devices and applying it without human intervention. The device performs self-service configuration by autonomously processing the received configuration data to integrate into the distributed computing system, eliminating the need for administrator assistance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration is performed multiple times as the system grows, then new computing devices can be added to the distributed system, but the administrative burden increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Each new computing device configures itself automatically upon joining the distributed computing system. The device autonomously receives configuration data from existing members and applies it without requiring administrator time or intervention, enabling rapid system expansion regardless of size.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates copies of configuration data from existing computing devices and transmits them to new devices. Instead of manually creating unique configuration settings each time, the system replicates proven configuration data, dramatically reducing the time required to onboard new devices as the system grows.
3Ease of operation
If automated configuration is implemented, then untrained individuals can easily add new devices with minimal error risk, but system security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the new computing device transmits an identity token for verification before receiving configuration data. The existing device compares the identity token against stored tokens to confirm authenticity, providing feedback control that prevents unauthorized devices from joining while maintaining automated configuration for legitimate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The identity token acts as an intermediary verification mechanism between the new device and the existing distributed computing system. Rather than directly trusting any connecting device, the system uses the token as a mediator to authenticate the new device's identity, enabling automated configuration while maintaining security through cryptographic verification.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method may be used to automatically configure a distributed computing system. The method may be used to configure an unconfigured computing device for distributed computing in the distributed computing system. At the unconfigured computing device, a contact token comprising contact information may be received. At a processor of the unconfigured computing device, the contact information may be used to initiate transmission of a configuration data request to a first configured computing device of a plurality of configured computing devices that have been configured for distributed computing in the distributed computing system. At the unconfigured computing device, configuration data may be received from the first configured computing device. At the processor, the configuration data may be used to configure the unconfigured computing device for distributed computing in the distributed computing system.