Ephemeral Gateway Access With Time-Limited Credentials
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data center access methods expose multiple customers' data to risk from bad actors due to shared user credentials, allowing unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
Implementing ephemeral gateways with time-limited credentials for remote access, which are instantiated and decommissioned within specified time windows, combined with security monitoring and IP restrictions, to secure access to cloud resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If shared user credentials are used for remote access to data center, then ease of operation is improved, but security against bad actors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the access credentials by creating ephemeral, time-limited credentials that are divided into multiple short-lived access tokens. Each credential is valid only for a specific time window and purpose, preventing bad actors from using stolen credentials to access data center resources at any time. This segmentation transforms permanent credentials into temporary, purpose-specific access tokens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements disposable, short-lived credentials that automatically expire after a predetermined time window. These ephemeral credentials are inexpensive to generate and replace, and their limited lifespan ensures that even if compromised, they cannot be used indefinitely. The system continuously issues new credentials as old ones expire, maintaining ease of operation while enhancing security.
2Ease of operation
If permanent access credentials are provided, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of access control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms static, permanent credentials into dynamic, time-varying credentials. The access credentials automatically change and expire based on time windows, ensuring that access control remains reliable even as credentials are issued to multiple users. The system dynamically manages credential lifecycles, revoking access automatically when time windows expire, thereby maintaining both operational ease and control reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic credential issuance and expiration based on predetermined time windows. Credentials are systematically renewed and revoked in regular cycles, ensuring that access control remains reliable over time. This periodic action prevents permanent access points from being exploited indefinitely, as each credential has a defined lifespan after which it is automatically invalidated.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple access points are created for customer access, then adaptability of access options is improved, but security risk to all customers' data increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data center access into isolated, customer-specific time windows. Each customer receives credentials valid only for their designated time window and scope, preventing bad actors from using one customer's compromised credentials to access other customers' data. This segmentation isolates access risks to specific time periods and customers, protecting overall data center security while maintaining access adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary credential management system that mediates between customers and data center resources. This intermediary issues and manages ephemeral credentials, controlling and monitoring access without requiring direct permanent access points. The intermediary layer ensures that even with multiple access options, each credential is tightly controlled and time-limited, reducing data exposure risk while maintaining access versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer implemented method includes receiving a time window for allowing access to an asset in a local area network. An ephemeral gateway is instantiated to provide access to the asset during the time window. Time window limited access credentials are also identified and are required for a first remote user to access the ephemeral gateway to gain access to the asset only during the time window.