Hardware Token Unlocking Private Storage Partition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data security methods, particularly in storage devices, are vulnerable to hacking and password compromise, making it difficult to protect private data from unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a hardware token to store a private key, which is detected and used to unlock a private partition on a storage device, keeping the partition invisible to the operating system when locked, thereby enhancing data security by providing an additional layer of protection beyond traditional software-based solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If software-based password protection is used, then ease of operation is improved, but security reliability deteriorates due to hacking and password compromise
Solution Approach 1:
A hardware token serves as an intermediary device that stores cryptographic keys and mediates access to the encrypted partition. The token reader detects the hardware token and obtains cryptographic keys from it, acting as a secure intermediary between the user and the private data, preventing direct software-based password attacks
2Reliability
If hardware token with private key is used, then security reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments security functions into separate components: the hardware token stores cryptographic keys, the token reader detects and obtains keys from the token, and the partition controller manages encryption and decryption. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system security
3Reliability
If private partition is kept invisible when locked, then security reliability is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to additional unlocking steps
Solution Approach 1:
The hardware token automatically provides cryptographic keys when detected by the token reader, eliminating the need for manual password entry. The system performs self-service authentication through hardware-based key provision, reducing operational complexity while maintaining security
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for controlling access to a private partition on a storage device are disclosed for. An example system includes a token reader that detects a hardware token storing a private key and obtains the private key stored on the hardware token. The system also includes a partition controller that determines whether the private key unlocks a private partition on a storage device. In response to determining that the private key unlocks the private partition, the partition controller unlocks the private partition on the storage device. The private partition is invisible to an operating system executing in the computer system when the private partition is locked.