Encrypted Boot Volume Access via Out-of-Band Key Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-tenant cloud-based infrastructure services, managing security tokens for encrypted boot volumes is challenging due to the need for secure key management, as existing obfuscation methods are not considered adequate for ensuring data privacy and security.
Innovation Solution
A system where a security token is created and shared between a new server instance and a key server using an out-of-band communications channel during the initial boot process, allowing the instance to authenticate and obtain a cryptographic access key for the encrypted boot volume, ensuring only authorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If obfuscation is used to protect cryptographic keys in boot volume images, then key extraction becomes difficult, but obfuscation is not considered an adequate measure of protection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cryptographic key management from the boot volume image by using a separate key server. The key is obtained dynamically during boot through out-of-band communication, rather than being embedded in the image. This removes the insecure element (embedded key) while maintaining security functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a key server as an intermediary between the boot volume and the instance. The key server mediates key distribution by receiving authentication credentials from the instance and providing the cryptographic key only after verification. This intermediary layer provides secure key management without requiring keys to be embedded in images.
2Ease of operation
If cryptographic keys are embedded in boot volume images, then key distribution is simplified, but data privacy and security are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary authentication before key distribution. During the boot process, the instance first presents authentication credentials (such as a digital signature or token) to the key server. Only after this preliminary verification succeeds does the key server provide the cryptographic key. This ensures secure key distribution without embedding keys in images.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/embedded key distribution system with an electronic/digital authentication system. Instead of physically embedding keys in images, the system uses digital credentials and cryptographic authentication protocols communicated through out-of-band channels. This substitution maintains ease of operation while dramatically improving security.
3Reliability
If a secure key management system is implemented, then data privacy is enhanced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the key server a universal component that handles key management for multiple instances and boot volumes. Rather than implementing separate key management systems for each instance, a single key server provides centralized authentication and key distribution services to all instances. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining strong security.
Solution Approach 2:
The key server acts as a centralized intermediary that simplifies the architecture by providing a single point of contact for all key management operations. Instances don't need complex embedded key management logic; they simply communicate their authentication credentials to the key server and receive keys. This intermediary approach centralizes complexity in a manageable component rather than distributing it across multiple instances.
Data Source
AI summary
In a resource-on-demand environment, dynamically created server instances are allowed to boot from encrypted boot volumes. Access keys to the boot volumes are provided from a key provider that authenticates new instances based on possession of a security token that has been previously shared between the key provider and the new instance through an out-of-band communication.