Encrypted DHCP Options via API Gateway Mediation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) options are unencrypted, making them vulnerable to leakage and compromising the security of computing devices, especially in scenarios where initial messages are broadcast and can be seen by unauthorized entities.
Innovation Solution
Encrypting DHCP options by serializing a DHCPv6 YANG model into JSON, CBOR, or XML and applying a REST wrapper, ensuring secure transmission and reducing the ability of attackers to fingerprint devices while maintaining visibility for authorized clients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DHCP options are transmitted in unencrypted format, then device configuration and network management functions are maintained, but security and privacy of device information are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary encryption layer between the DHCP server and client. This intermediary mechanism encrypts DHCP options before transmission, allowing secure communication without changing the fundamental DHCP protocol structure. The encryption acts as a mediator that protects data while maintaining protocol functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing encrypted DHCP options within the existing DHCP message structure. The encryption is applied at the option level, allowing multiple encrypted options to be nested within the DHCP packet without requiring complete protocol redesign. This maintains compatibility while adding security.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If DHCP options are encrypted, then security and privacy are improved, but compatibility with existing unencrypted DHCP implementations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by encrypting only specific DHCP options that contain sensitive information rather than encrypting the entire DHCP message. This selective encryption approach maintains compatibility with existing implementations while protecting vulnerable data fields, allowing gradual adoption without requiring complete protocol replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the encryption mechanism configurable and adaptable. The system can dynamically adjust which options are encrypted based on network policies, device capabilities, and threat models. This allows the same DHCP infrastructure to serve both encrypted and unencrypted implementations depending on the operational context.
3Ease of operation
If broadcast DHCP messages are sent in clear text, then initial network configuration is simplified, but information leakage to unauthorized entities occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing encryption keys and encryption contexts before the actual DHCP configuration exchange. The encryption infrastructure is set up in advance, allowing broadcast DHCP messages to be encrypted automatically without adding complexity to the configuration process itself. This preliminary preparation prevents information leakage while maintaining operational simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
At an authentication server, a request for at least a first dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) option is received from a client device, and it is determined if the authentication server implements DHCP. Based at least in part on a determination that the authentication server does not implement a DHCP, the operations further include transmitting an application program interface (API) call to a DHCP server associated with the authentication server acting as a DHCP gateway, receiving a response from the DHCP server, and transmitting the response to the client device.