Fractional Subdomain DNS for Scalable IoT Device Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Legacy DNS and SSL certificate deployment methods face challenges in scalability, security, and cost-effectiveness, particularly with handling wildcards and managing multiple subdomains, leading to limitations in efficiently connecting and managing a large number of Internet-connected devices.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system and method for deploying and managing Internet-connected devices, including a multi-server fractional subdomain DNS protocol, direct map proxy system, and secure device identification and configuration using Universal Device Locators (UDLs) for secure authentication and encryption, enabling efficient and scalable device management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wildcard SSL certificates are used to secure multiple subdomains, then the number of certificates required is reduced, but the cost and setup resources still increase with scaling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal root certificate that can secure any number of subdomains across multiple servers without requiring additional certificates. The fractional subdomain protocol allows a single root certificate to function universally across the entire domain hierarchy, making the SSL infrastructure scalable without proportional increases in certificate costs and setup resources.
2Productivity
If multiple wildcard DNS records are created for each server to enable load balancing, then device distribution across servers is improved, but the complexity of DNS management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the domain name into fractional subdomains that can be independently routed to different servers. By dividing the subdomain structure into manageable fractional parts, the system enables precise control over device-to-server mapping while simplifying DNS management through a standardized protocol for fractional subdomain resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a DNS intermediary service that resolves fractional subdomains to appropriate server addresses. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of load balancing and device distribution transparently, allowing simple fractional subdomain names to be automatically routed to the correct server without requiring complex DNS zone configurations.
3Ease of manufacture
If legacy DNS and SSL protocols are used to manage device scaling, then implementation is straightforward, but the ability to securely and cost-effectively add servers and subdomains is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic fractional subdomain protocol that adapts to scaling requirements. The system dynamically resolves fractional subdomains to appropriate server addresses based on current device distribution, enabling flexible addition of servers and subdomains without rigid protocol constraints. This dynamic approach maintains implementation simplicity while dramatically improving scaling capability compared to static legacy protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system, and computer program product for network-connected devices.