Edge Cloud Communication Hub for Secure VM Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional server deployment environments, such as those on Amazon Web Services or Google Cloud, expose virtual machines to unauthorized access due to their public IP addresses and default SSH configurations, making them vulnerable to malicious attacks.
Innovation Solution
An integrated edge cloud architecture with a management system that employs a software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) manager and a communication hub using publish-subscribe network protocols, enabling secure peer-to-peer communication and eliminating the need for open ports, thereby enhancing security and reducing vulnerabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If virtual machines are deployed with public IP addresses and default SSH configurations, then accessibility and ease of operation are improved, but security and vulnerability to malicious attacks worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communication hub as an intermediary component that mediates all communications between managed devices and user devices. This hub acts as a secure gateway that eliminates the need for public IP addresses and open SSH ports, thereby maintaining accessibility while blocking direct attack vectors. The hub uses asymmetric key encryption and peer-to-peer connection management to enable secure access without exposing devices to public networks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical networking approach (public IP addresses, open ports, firewall configurations) with a software-defined communication architecture. Instead of relying on network infrastructure mechanics, the system uses application-layer communication protocols and encryption mechanisms to achieve secure access, fundamentally substituting the access mechanism while maintaining ease of operation.
2Reliability
If public key authentication is implemented for SSH access, then security is improved compared to password authentication, but the system remains vulnerable due to publicly accessible IP addresses
Solution Approach 1:
The communication hub serves as a trusted intermediary that manages asymmetric key encryption for all communications. Instead of relying solely on SSH key pairs that protect against brute-force attacks, the hub mediates the key exchange and communication process, adding a layer of security that protects against network-based threats while maintaining authentication security.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements pre-established trusted communication channels through the communication hub before any data transmission occurs. Asymmetric key encryption is set up in advance, creating secure tunnels that cushion the system against potential attacks. This prior cushioning ensures that even if public keys are exposed, the encrypted communication channels remain secure.
3Ease of operation
If default firewall configurations allow SSH communications, then ease of operation is improved, but security vulnerabilities increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication hub replaces the need for traditional firewall configurations by acting as a centralized mediator that handles all access control decisions. Instead of configuring firewalls on each device to allow SSH traffic, the hub manages peer-to-peer connections and authentication, simplifying operations while improving security through centralized control and encryption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the security management function from individual device firewalls and concentrates it in the communication hub. This extraction eliminates the need for complex firewall rules and SSH configurations on each device, maintaining operational simplicity while centralizing security enforcement through the hub's mediation and encryption mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Example methods and systems are directed to a decentralized computing arrangement including a management system connected to a wide area network. The management system has a publish/subscribe messaging platform and a platform manager to provide an application for installation on edge devices. Each edge device has a wide area network interface to connect to the wide area network thereby to receive configuration data from the management system to install the application on the edge device. The edge device further includes a messaging interface to receive messages from the publish/subscribe messaging platform. The messages control installation of the application and allow communications between the edge device and the management system based on topics.