Gateway Firewall Authentication Controller for BYOD Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network security measures struggle to effectively restrict access to application servers while allowing trusted users seamless access from various devices, balancing security and convenience in a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) environment.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using a gateway system that authenticates client devices via digital signatures and manages network tunnels, employing a firewall to control access based on client access lists and entitlement tokens, ensuring only authorized access to application servers within a private network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If network level security is enforced by configuring firewalls and access controls, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary device that automatically manages firewall configurations and access rights. The controller receives authentication information from clients, determines access rights based on identity and health profiles, and configures the protection device accordingly. This intermediary automates the security enforcement process, eliminating the need for manual firewall configuration and making security transparent to users while maintaining strong security controls.
2Reliability
If access rights are dynamically managed based on authentication, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple security functions into a single integrated controller. The controller performs authentication verification, identity profile matching, health profile assessment, and firewall configuration management all in one device. By merging these previously separate functions into a unified system, the patent reduces overall system complexity while maintaining dynamic access control based on authentication status.
3Reliability
If application servers are isolated within private networks, then security is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic access control that adapts firewall rules based on real-time authentication results. When a client is authenticated and authorized, the controller dynamically opens specific firewall ports and configurations to allow access to particular application servers. When access is denied or the session ends, the firewall automatically closes those paths. This dynamic approach maintains private network isolation while providing flexible, on-demand access to authorized users.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure help protect network devices from unauthorized access. Among other things, embodiments of the disclosure allow full access to application servers and other network devices that a client is allowed to access, while preventing all access (or even knowledge) of network devices the client is not allowed to access.