Networking-Based DC-SCM Provisioning for Lower-Cost Datacenter Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The inclusion of a DataCenter Secure Control Module (DC-SCM) in computing devices with DC-MHS configurations is expensive and not necessary in all devices, leading to increased cost and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A networking device in the computing device provides DC-SCM functionality via a cloud-based DC-SCM as-a-service (DC-SCMaaS) system, enabling DC-SCM functionality through a networking device service instance that receives and executes images over a network, eliminating the need for a conventional DC-SCM.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a DC-SCM is included in all DC-MHS computing devices, then initialization, management, security and control functionality is provided, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The networking device is enhanced to perform multiple functions including its primary networking role and additional DC-SCM functionality such as initialization, management, security and control operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate DC-SCM component in many devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining required functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the DC-SCM functionality with the networking device into a single integrated component. By merging these previously separate functions, the system reduces the number of discrete components needed, thereby lowering device complexity and cost while preserving essential security and control capabilities.
2Reliability
If a DC-SCM is included in all DC-MHS computing devices, then security and control functionality is provided, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The networking device is designed to serve universal purposes by handling both networking operations and DC-SCM security/control functions. This approach allows manufacturers to produce cost-effective devices that meet DC-MHS requirements without purchasing and installing expensive dedicated DC-SCM components in every device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential DC-SCM functionality and relocates it to the networking device. This extraction eliminates the need to include expensive dedicated DC-SCM hardware in all devices, particularly in those where such functionality is not strictly necessary, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining security where needed.
3Device complexity
If DC-SCM functionality is provided via networking device, then cost and complexity are reduced, but additional network dependency is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its operation mode based on network availability. When connected to the network, the networking device provides DC-SCM functions remotely. When disconnected, the system can operate with local DC-SCM capabilities or in a degraded mode, ensuring continued functionality and reducing dependency issues.
Data Source
AI summary
A DataCenter Secure Control Module (DC-SCM) as-a-service system includes a DataCenter Modular Hardware System (DC-MHS) computing device having a Host Processor Module (HPM) and a networking device that is coupled to the HPM and a network, and a DC-SCM provisioning system that is coupled to the networking device via the network. The DC-SCM provisioning system provides a networking device service instance for the networking device, receives a networking device DC-SCM functionality configuration for the networking device through the network via the networking device service instance, and configures at least one image to provide networking device DC-SCM functionality defined by the networking device DC-SCM functionality configuration. The networking device receives the at least one image via the network, and executes the at least one image to perform the networking device DC-SCM functionality with the HPM.