Hardware Security Module Provisioning for Zero-Trust Policy Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Security accessories, such as hardware security modules, lack the capability to connect to the internet and receive policy settings or management commands, limiting their integration and control within enterprise environments.
Innovation Solution
A cryptographic interface application that interacts with hardware security modules to enforce enterprise policies by setting and managing passcodes, ensuring compliance with networked environments through USB or wireless connections, and integrating with mobile and desktop applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If security accessories are kept separate from mobile devices and computers, then security credentials are protected, but the accessories cannot receive policy settings or management commands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a trusted intermediary component within the accessory that mediates between the isolated security credentials and the external management system. This intermediary can establish secure communication channels through the host device, allowing policy settings and management commands to reach the accessory without compromising credential isolation. The intermediary acts as a controlled gateway that maintains security boundaries while enabling necessary management functionality.
2Reliability
If passcodes are required to use or modify stored credentials, then security is enhanced, but user convenience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple passcode options and policies before the user needs to access credentials. Enterprise administrators can set up emergency passcodes, recovery mechanisms, and automated passcode distribution policies in advance. When users need access, the system can automatically provide appropriate passcodes or alternative authentication methods, eliminating the need for users to remember complex passcodes while maintaining security through pre-established protocols.
3Reliability
If security accessories lack internet connection capability, then security isolation is maintained, but remote management and policy updates are prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The host device serves as an intermediary that bridges the isolated security accessory and the internet-connected enterprise management system. The accessory communicates security-critical data through the host device's internet connection, allowing remote management and policy updates without the accessory needing direct internet access. This maintains security isolation while enabling remote operational capabilities through the trusted intermediary channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the host device universal by enabling it to perform multiple functions: acting as a communication bridge for the isolated accessory, providing internet connectivity, and serving as a trusted intermediary for policy distribution. This multi-functionality allows the accessory to benefit from the host's internet capabilities without compromising its own security isolation, effectively extending remote management capability to the accessory through the host's universal role.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to zero trust accessory management. A cryptographic interface application can set a provisioning passcode for the hardware security module. The cryptographic interface application can further set a usage passcode for the hardware security module. The cryptographic interface application can remove an unblock passcode for the hardware security module. The cryptographic interface application can install at least one credential to the hardware security module using the accessory provisioning passcode.