Operating System Security Key Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional authentication techniques are inefficient and insecure, often requiring users to input passwords or biometric data, which can be compromised, leading to security issues and unnecessary resource usage.
Innovation Solution
A system and method where a computing device generates a security key from unique identifiers, such as serial numbers and network card identifiers, to authenticate with other devices, eliminating the need for traditional login credentials and enhancing security by using an operating system-level authentication mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional authentication techniques (passwords, biometrics) are used, then users can access remote content, but security is compromised and resource efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The authentication system performs self-service by automatically generating and using security keys without requiring user intervention. The operating system and applications autonomously handle authentication credentials, eliminating the need for users to manually input passwords or biometric data, thus improving both security and efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authentication mechanism where security keys act as mediators between the user's computing device and remote systems. These keys are generated by the operating system and used to authenticate connections, replacing direct user credential input with an automated intermediary authentication process
2Ease of operation
If passwords are used for authentication, then users can log onto remote systems, but the system becomes vulnerable to credential theft and unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the authentication credential from user memory and manual input processes. Instead of using passwords that users must remember and type, the system extracts authentication capabilities into automated security keys generated and managed by the operating system, eliminating the vulnerability of password-based authentication
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of manual password entry with an automated electronic authentication mechanism. Security keys are programmatically generated and exchanged between systems, substituting the manual mechanical process of typing passwords with an automated electronic credential verification system
3Reliability
If biometric authentication techniques are used, then user verification is performed, but reliability and cost-efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs security keys that can be generated, used, and replaced at low cost. These digital credentials are inexpensive to create and can be quickly regenerated if compromised, providing a cost-effective alternative to expensive and complex biometric authentication systems while maintaining verification reliability
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer program products are included for authenticating computing devices. An exemplary method includes associating a security key with an operating system of a first computing device, wherein the security key is generated from a serial number corresponding to the first computing device. A token corresponding to the security key is sent to a second computing device. The token is accessed by the second computing device to authenticate the first computing device. An authenticated session is established between the first computing device and the second computing device. Within the authenticated session, a connection is provided between the first computing device and the second computing device.