Network Gateway Isolation for Secure Third-Party Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network gateways face challenges in securely executing third-party software modules without compromising the security of the primary gateway functionality, often requiring additional devices for enhanced functionalities.
Innovation Solution
A network gateway device configured to execute a first software module providing gateway functionality and a second software module encapsulated from the first, with a processing module to limit access and provide a secure execution environment, enabling third-party modules while maintaining security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If third-party software modules are executed on the network gateway, then functionality and versatility are improved, but security and reliability of the primary gateway functionality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the software execution environment by encapsulating third-party software modules into separate containers isolated from the primary gateway functionality. This segmentation allows third-party applications to run on the gateway while preventing them from accessing or compromising the core gateway functions, thus resolving the contradiction between enhanced functionality and maintained security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary software layer between the third-party modules and the primary gateway functionality. This intermediary layer acts as a mediator that enables communication and data exchange while maintaining security boundaries, allowing the gateway to provide versatile functionality without exposing critical security vulnerabilities to third-party applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional devices are deployed to enhance gateway functionality, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the network gateway to perform multiple functions by executing both primary gateway software modules and third-party software modules on a single device. This multi-functionality approach eliminates the need for separate additional devices, as the gateway itself becomes a universal platform capable of running diverse applications while maintaining its core networking functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the execution of third-party software modules with the primary gateway functionality on the same hardware platform. By combining these functions into a single integrated system using containerization technology, the patent achieves enhanced versatility without requiring separate additional devices, thus reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for controlling a network gateway comprises at least one network interface configured to communicate in at least one computer network. The device further comprises a processing module configured to at least partially execute at least a first software module and a second software module. The first software module is configured to provide a gateway functionality of the network gateway via the at least one network interface. A functionality of the second software module is different from the gateway functionality of the first software module. The second software module is encapsulated from the first software module.