OS Image Deployment via Isolated Network Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing OS image deployment in data centers is insecure due to the use of multi-drop networks, where each deployed OS image is accessible by all devices connected to the network, compromising security.
Innovation Solution
A one-to-one secure network connection is established using an OS imaging service container, which is generated in response to a request for provisioning a server with a selected OS image, allowing secure transmission and deletion after provisioning, ensuring isolated and secure OS image deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a multi-drop network is used for OS image deployment, then network resource sharing and ease of deployment are improved, but security is compromised because each deployed OS image is accessible by all devices connected to the network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network deployment process by creating isolated network connections for each server provisioning operation. Instead of using a shared multi-drop network where all devices can access all OS images, the system establishes dedicated point-to-point connections that segment network access so that each server can only access its assigned OS image through its own isolated connection channel.
2Device complexity
If a multi-drop network is used for OS image deployment, then device complexity is reduced, but security is compromised due to unauthorized access risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary provisioning server that mediates between the OS image storage and the target servers. This intermediary establishes temporary, isolated network connections to transfer OS images securely. The intermediary acts as a controlled gateway that prevents direct access between arbitrary network devices, thereby blocking unauthorized access while maintaining manageable device complexity.
3Reliability
If isolated one-to-one network connections are established for each server provisioning, then security is improved, but device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic network connection management where isolated point-to-point connections are automatically created, used, and torn down based on provisioning needs. The system dynamically establishes secure connections only when needed for specific server provisioning operations and automatically terminates them afterward. This dynamic approach maintains high security through isolation while avoiding the complexity of permanently managing multiple isolated connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs temporary network connections that are discarded after use. Each provisioning operation creates a dedicated isolated connection, uses it to transfer the OS image securely, then discards the connection. This approach recovers network resources by eliminating the need to maintain multiple permanent isolated connections, thereby reducing overall system complexity while preserving the security benefits of isolation during active provisioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A system to facilitate operating system (OS) installation is described. The system includes a server and rack controller, including one or more processors to generate an imaging service comprising an OS image container, transmit data via a first network to initiate a boot up process at a server and download an OS image included in the OS image container via a second network, wherein the second network is separate from the first network.