IPsec Gateway Label Translation for Cross-Realm Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current virtual private networks (VPNs) lack a mechanism to translate IPsec-based labeling between different security realms, leading to inconsistent security label interpretations and a lack of effective access control policies for IPsec-labeled traffic across security realms.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that uses gateways to inspect and label IPsec traffic, determining security associations (SAs) and applying access control policies based on implicit security labels, with the ability to translate security labels between security realms for consistent policy enforcement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If IPsec-based labeling is used to secure traffic across VPNs, then security and privacy are improved, but there is no mechanism to translate labels between different security realms, leading to inconsistent security policy enforcement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a label translation mechanism that acts as an intermediary between different security realms. This translator converts security labels from one realm's format to another realm's format, enabling consistent security policy enforcement across VPNs with different labeling schemes without requiring direct integration between security realms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different security realms use their own label representations and semantics, then each realm can maintain its own security policies, but there is no known mechanism to translate IPsec-based labeling between different security realms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming security label parameters (representation format and semantic meaning) when translating between security realms. The label translation mechanism adjusts label parameters to match the target realm's requirements while preserving the essential security intent, enabling both realm independence and information consistency.
3Reliability
If MAC security is implemented with trusted operating systems, then access control is strengthened, but there is no firewall-equivalent method of controlling the flow of IPsec-labeled traffic between networks connected across a VPN
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a gateway with multi-functionality that combines IPsec processing, label translation, and firewall-like traffic control capabilities. This universal gateway can handle multiple security functions including enforcing MAC policies, translating labels between realms, and controlling IPsec-labeled traffic flow, eliminating the need for separate specialized systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention extend protection of network traffic between different security realms based on security labeling. In particular, embodiments of the present invention label provide for implicit labeling of traffic shared between different security realms. The traffic may be shared using IPsec protocols. A gateway inspects the IPsec traffic and identifies security associations (SAs) of the IPsec traffic. The gateway then determines a security label of the SA. Various access control policies may then be applied to the traffic based on its security label.