Operating System Rotation for Moving Target Defense
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Solution Overview
Problem
Static client-server computing systems are vulnerable to cyber-attacks, particularly zero-day attacks, as attackers can exploit vulnerabilities in the operating system and application layers over extended periods, due to the static nature of the host computer environment.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a Multiple Operating System Rotation Environment (MORE-MTD) that periodically rotates operating systems to create a dynamic attack surface, limiting the time an attacker has to locate and exploit vulnerabilities, by synchronizing and handoff operations between host devices with different operating systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a static host computer environment is used, then system stability and ease of operation are improved, but vulnerability to cyber-attacks and zero-day exploits increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic rotation of operating systems on host devices, where the active operating system changes periodically rather than remaining static. This creates a moving target for attackers while maintaining system functionality, directly addressing the vulnerability issue without sacrificing operational stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs periodic handoff operations where operating systems are rotated in a cyclic manner among host devices. This periodic change in the active operating system limits the time window for attackers to exploit vulnerabilities while ensuring continuous service availability through automated rotation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If operating systems are rotated frequently, then attack surface exposure time is reduced, but system complexity and synchronization requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated handoff operations that self-manage the rotation process without requiring manual intervention. The administrator device automatically coordinates synchronization and handoff between host devices, reducing operational complexity while maintaining frequent rotation for security.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple host devices are configured with identical application environments and capabilities, allowing any device to assume the active role during rotation. This universality simplifies synchronization requirements since all devices can perform the same functions, reducing the complexity burden of frequent rotations.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple host devices are used for rotation, then attack surface is dynamically changed, but resource requirements and system cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates virtual copies of the operating system environment across multiple host devices. Instead of requiring entirely separate physical systems with full functionality, virtualized copies enable rotation while reducing the actual resource requirements and cost compared to fully independent physical systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for providing a multiple operating system rotation environment (“MORE”) moving target defense (“MTD”) computing system are described. The MORE-MTD system provides enhanced computer system security through a rotation of multiple operating systems. The MORE-MTD system increases attacker uncertainty, increases the cost of attacking the system, reduces the likelihood of an attacker locating a vulnerability, and reduces the exposure time of any located vulnerability. The MORE-MTD environment is effectuated by rotation of the operating systems at a given interval. The rotating operating systems create a consistently changing attack surface for remote attackers.