Legacy Software Security GUI for Container Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computer systems with a mix of legacy and current software face security vulnerabilities due to outdated software, which can be exploited by malicious actors, and it is challenging to track and mitigate these vulnerabilities effectively.
Innovation Solution
A security engine identifies legacy software, generates a graphical user interface to monitor and notify users of outdated software, offers options for containerization and security support, and automates the process of deploying legacy software in isolated containers and obtaining support licenses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If legacy software is executed in a computer system, then software functionality is maintained, but security vulnerabilities are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the computer system into a secure environment (container or virtual machine) and an unsecure legacy software environment. The legacy software is isolated within a container or virtual machine that runs on top of a secure host operating system. This segmentation allows the legacy software to execute its specific functionality while being contained within security boundaries, preventing vulnerability exploitation from affecting the broader system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a security engine as an intermediary component that sits between the legacy software and the rest of the computer system. The security engine monitors, detects, and manages security vulnerabilities in the legacy software, acting as a mediator that allows the legacy software to run while providing continuous security oversight and control.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If legacy software is isolated in containers, then security vulnerabilities are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal containerization framework that can encapsulate various types of legacy software (operating systems, application servers, client applications) within a single standardized container architecture. This multi-functional approach allows different legacy systems to be isolated using the same container technology, reducing the need for separate isolation solutions for each software type and thereby limiting the increase in system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The security engine provides automated detection, monitoring, and management of security vulnerabilities in legacy software containers. The system automatically identifies vulnerabilities, generates notifications to administrators, and manages security patches without requiring manual intervention, thereby reducing the operational complexity burden on system administrators.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If security support is obtained for legacy software, then vulnerabilities are mitigated, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous monitoring and detection of security vulnerabilities in legacy software before they can be exploited. The security engine proactively scans for vulnerabilities, compares them against known vulnerability databases, and notifies administrators in advance, allowing security patches to be applied before malicious actors can exploit the vulnerabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The security engine establishes a feedback loop that continuously monitors the security status of legacy software, detects vulnerabilities, and provides notifications to administrators. This feedback mechanism ensures that security issues are identified and addressed in a timely manner, reducing the time between vulnerability discovery and patch application.
Data Source
AI summary
One example described herein includes a system that can generate a graphical user interface indicating pieces of legacy software in a computer system. The graphical user interface can also include options corresponding to the pieces of legacy software. The system can receive a first selection of a first option corresponding to a first piece of legacy software identified in the graphical user interface. In response, the system can deploy the first piece of legacy software within a container in the computer system. The system can also receive a second selection of a second option corresponding to a second piece of legacy software identified in the graphical user interface. In response, the system can initiate a process for obtaining security support from an external support entity for the second piece of legacy software.