Network Endpoint Key Distribution for Dynamic Secure Binding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for dynamically binding network endpoints face challenges such as the need for manual distribution and updating of binding maps and public keys, which can lead to security risks and inefficiencies, especially in large networks with dynamic changes and hard-to-reach endpoints.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a controller, public key database, and network binding map to automatically distribute cryptographic keys to endpoints based on a hierarchical or flat network structure, ensuring secure authentication and dynamic binding without prior trust relationships.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual distribution and updating of binding maps and public keys is used, then security control is maintained, but deployment efficiency and scalability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a key distribution server as an intermediary component that automatically manages the distribution of public keys and binding maps to network endpoints. This server acts as a centralized authority that eliminates manual distribution processes while maintaining security through cryptographic key management. The server receives binding information from network administrators and automatically pushes updated keys to relevant endpoints, resolving the contradiction between security control and deployment efficiency.
2Reliability
If manual updating of binding maps is performed, then security is maintained, but deployment time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-generating and storing public keys in the key distribution server before they are needed. When binding relationships are established or updated in the network, the server automatically retrieves the appropriate pre-prepared keys and distributes them to endpoints without requiring manual intervention. This preliminary preparation of cryptographic materials significantly reduces deployment time while maintaining security through proper key management practices.
3Extent of automation
If centralized key distribution is implemented, then automation and efficiency improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The key distribution server is designed as a universal component that handles multiple functions: storing public keys, managing binding maps, authenticating endpoints, and distributing cryptographic materials. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional system, the patent reduces overall system complexity compared to having separate specialized components for each function. The server's ability to perform multiple roles simplifies the architectural landscape while maintaining high automation levels.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for dynamically binding network endpoints via key distribution are described. In an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, an Information Handling System (IHS) may include: a processor; and a memory coupled to the processor, where the memory includes program instructions that cause the IHS to: obtain a network binding map indicating a flat or hierarchical structure of a plurality of endpoints of a network; obtain a respective plurality of cryptographic keys for the plurality of endpoints; and distribute one or more keys of the plurality of cryptographic keys to individual endpoints based, at least in part, on the network binding map. In some embodiments, the program instructions further cause the IHS to: distribute, to individual endpoints, only the one or more keys associated with one or more other endpoints, of plurality of endpoints, to which the respective individual endpoint is bound, according to the network binding map.