Keypad Port Knocking Interface for Secure Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current port knocking technologies are limited by the lack of a simple user interface, requiring users to manage complex scripts and log interpretations, which hinders widespread adoption due to the complexity of configuring and using port knocking for secure communication in information handling systems.
Innovation Solution
A user-friendly port knocking abstraction is introduced, utilizing a keypad-like interface for users to input codes that are mapped to specific port knocking sequences, allowing for easy generation and recognition of valid access attempts, with a mapping module that abstracts the port calls and logs the sequences for administrators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If port knocking is implemented using traditional methods with scripts and log monitoring, then security authentication is achieved, but user interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a graphical user interface (GUI) as an intermediary between the user and the port knocking mechanism. The GUI captures user input through simple interactions (such as clicking buttons or entering data in form fields) and automatically translates these interactions into the required port knocking sequences. This mediator layer shields users from the complexity of scripts and log monitoring while maintaining the security authentication functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automatic generation and execution of port knocking sequences based on user interactions with the GUI. The software automatically monitors its own logs, detects port knocking attempts, and performs authentication without requiring users to manually interpret logs or manage scripts. This self-service capability simplifies the user experience while maintaining security.
2Reliability
If port knocking sequences are manually managed through scripts, then authentication security is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex script management and log monitoring functions into a separate graphical user interface layer. This extraction allows the core port knocking authentication mechanism to remain simple and secure, while the complexity of user interaction management is handled by the GUI layer. Users interact with high-level graphical elements rather than directly managing scripts or configuration files.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of user interaction from command-line script execution to graphical interface manipulation. By transforming the interaction mode from text-based script management to visual button clicks and form inputs, the system maintains authentication security while dramatically reducing the perceived complexity for users.
3Reliability
If all networking ports are closed to prevent malicious access, then security is improved, but legitimate connection attempts are blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements port knocking, which requires legitimate users to perform a preliminary action (sending a specific sequence of connection attempts to closed ports) before the port is opened for legitimate communication. This preliminary knock sequence is monitored by the system, and upon recognition, the port is temporarily opened to allow the legitimate connection. This approach maintains security by keeping ports closed by default while enabling authenticated access.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of generating a port knocking sequence which includes providing a port knocking user interface which allows a user to enter an input string, mapping the input string received via the port knocking user interface to a corresponding port knocking sequence, and generating the corresponding port knocking sequence which is sent to a target system is disclosed.