Endpoint-Based Network Deployment for Secure IoT Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing industrial control systems and IoT networks lack efficient system management and updating capabilities, leading to security vulnerabilities due to ad hoc network configurations and the complexity of infrastructure changes, making them susceptible to attacks and compromising the entire interconnected network environment.
Innovation Solution
An infrastructure deployment platform that uses machine learning algorithms for dynamic endpoint configuration-based network design and deployment, leveraging contextual information to constrain device-to-device communications, employing VLANs, firewalls, and security mechanisms to create a secure and organized network infrastructure that can be updated in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If ad hoc network configurations are used in existing industrial control systems, then device connectivity is achieved, but security vulnerabilities increase and the network becomes susceptible to attacks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into isolated segments using virtualization technologies (VLANs, virtual switches) and containerization (Docker). Each segment can be independently configured and secured, allowing device connectivity while preventing lateral movement of attacks. The network is divided into logical segments based on device types, security requirements, and functional needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary components such as virtual network functions (VNFs), security gateways, and orchestration platforms that mediate between devices and the network infrastructure. These intermediaries enforce security policies, manage device onboarding, and provide controlled access without requiring direct peer-to-peer connections.
2Reliability
If traditional network infrastructure changes are made to improve security, then security posture improves, but system complexity increases and updates become complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service capabilities where devices automatically register themselves with the network infrastructure, obtain appropriate security credentials, and configure their own network parameters through automated onboarding processes. The orchestration platform automatically provisions security policies and network configurations based on device identity and intended function, eliminating manual configuration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs universal security frameworks and standardized protocols that can be applied across diverse device types and network configurations. The orchestration platform provides multi-functional capabilities including device registration, security policy enforcement, network configuration, and update management through a single unified interface, reducing overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If manual system management and updating processes are used, then system control is maintained, but productivity decreases and security updates cannot be deployed efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the orchestration platform continuously monitors device states, security threats, and network performance. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts security policies, provisions resources, and deploys updates. The system receives feedback from devices about their operational status and uses this information to make intelligent decisions about configuration changes and update timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring security policies, network parameters, and update packages before devices are deployed or before security updates are needed. The orchestration platform maintains a repository of pre-approved security configurations and update images that can be rapidly deployed when needed, eliminating the need for manual configuration during critical update scenarios.
Data Source
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AI summary
An infrastructure deployment platform may receive configuration data relating to a plurality of devices included as components of a system, or a system of systems. The infrastructure deployment platform may process the configuration data, and may determine contextual information concerning the plurality of devices based on processing the configuration data. The contextual information may identify communicative relationships or associations between the plurality of devices. The infrastructure deployment platform may define an organizational structure of a network for the plurality of devices. The organizational structure may constrain communications between the plurality of devices based on the communicative relationships or associations. The infrastructure deployment platform may transmit the contextual information or data regarding the organizational structure to a network infrastructure controller device. The infrastructure deployment platform may perform an action to cause the network to be deployed based on the functional responsibility of the system and/or system of systems.