Network Device Security via Intermediary Translation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network devices are vulnerable to cybercrimes due to unauthorized access, which can lead to data theft, alteration, or destruction, as malicious entities exploit communication vulnerabilities over networks.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where a network device transmits initial security instructions to a security device, receives event signals, translates security instructions into host instructions, and communicates with the security device to execute network-facing operations, thereby deterring unauthorized access by periodically updating security instructions to obscure device and machine code information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network devices communicate over networks to exchange information and messages, then communication functionality is enabled, but vulnerability to cybercrimes and unauthorized access increases
Solution Approach 1:
A security device is introduced as an intermediary between the network device and the network. The security device carries out network-facing operations on behalf of the network device, including receiving and transmitting data packets, while the network device operates in an air-gapped environment without direct network exposure. This intermediary approach enables communication functionality while protecting the network device from direct cybercrime vulnerabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into two distinct components: the network device operating in an air-gapped environment and the security device with network connectivity. This segmentation separates the vulnerable network-facing operations from the protected network device, allowing communication functionality to be maintained through controlled interfaces while eliminating direct exposure to network threats.
2Reliability
If security measures are implemented to prevent cybercrimes, then security protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The security device serves as a specialized intermediary that handles all network-facing security operations. By consolidating security functions in a dedicated device rather than distributing them across the network device, the system achieves strong security protection while managing complexity through functional specialization and clear separation of responsibilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The security device autonomously carries out network-facing operations including receiving data packets from the network, translating security instructions into host instructions, and transmitting communication information back to the network device. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex coordination and manual intervention, thereby managing system complexity while maintaining high security protection.
3Reliability
If security instructions are periodically updated to obscure device information, then security against unauthorized access is improved, but processing overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network device pre-generates and transmits a set of security instructions to the security device before network-facing operations begin. These security instructions are periodically updated to obscure device and machine code information. By preparing security instructions in advance and having them ready for selection, the system achieves strong security through periodic updates while minimizing processing overhead during actual network operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Security instructions are periodically updated and transmitted from the network device to the security device. This periodic update mechanism obscures device and machine code information from potential attackers while maintaining efficient processing, as the updates occur at scheduled intervals rather than requiring continuous processing during network operations.
4Reliability
If the security device carries out network-facing operations, then network device security is improved, but communication efficiency may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The security device acts as an efficient intermediary that handles network-facing operations including receiving data packets, translating security instructions into executable host instructions, and transmitting communication information to the network device. This intermediary approach maintains communication efficiency by optimizing the translation and forwarding processes while ensuring the network device remains securely isolated.
Solution Approach 2:
The security device autonomously performs all network-facing operations including packet reception, instruction translation, and data transmission without requiring direct intervention from the network device. This self-service capability streamlines communication processes and maintains efficiency by eliminating unnecessary coordination overhead between the security device and network device.
Data Source
AI summary
A method including receiving, by a security device from a network device, an initial security instruction set including a plurality of initial security instructions associated with operation of the security device; receiving, by the security device from the network device, an event signal associated with the security device carrying out a network-facing operation; transmitting, by the security device to the network device based on receiving the event signal, a security instruction associated with the security device carrying out the network-facing operation, the security instruction being from among the plurality of initial security instructions; receiving, by the security device from the network device based on transmitting the security instruction, communication information to enable the security device to carry out the network-facing operation; and carrying out, by the security device, the network-facing operation based on utilizing the communication information is disclosed. Various other aspects are contemplated.