Hybrid P2P Access Server for Secure NAT Traversal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current peer-to-peer networks face security risks due to distributed endpoint information and can become bottlenecks in communication, while traditional client/server models struggle to support large numbers of clients efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid peer-to-peer system with an access server that uses standardized communication protocols and distributed softswitch architecture, enabling direct communication between endpoints and bypassing the need for external softswitches, while employing STUN servers and stateless reflectors to traverse NAT devices for secure and efficient communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a traditional peer-to-peer network is used to enable direct communication between endpoints, then communication efficiency is improved, but security risk increases due to distributed endpoint information storage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an access server as an intermediary component that mediates between endpoints. The access server stores endpoint information centrally rather than distributing it across all endpoints, thereby maintaining security while enabling efficient direct peer-to-peer communication. The intermediary manages credential verification and routing without being part of the direct communication path between endpoints.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a client/server model is used to centralize credential storage and improve security, then security risk is reduced, but communication efficiency deteriorates due to server bottleneck
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the server's functions into two distinct parts: the access server handles only credential storage and verification, while a separate softswitch handles communication routing and forwarding. This segmentation allows the access server to remain lightweight and secure, while the softswitch handles the communication load without creating a single point of bottleneck, as multiple softswitches can operate in parallel.
Solution Approach 2:
The softswitch acts as an intermediary that enables direct peer-to-peer communication between clients. Once the access server verifies credentials, the softswitch facilitates direct communication paths between endpoints without requiring all traffic to pass through the access server, thereby eliminating the bottleneck while maintaining security through centralized credential management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If external softswitches are used to support peer-to-peer communication, then communication flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the softswitch functionality directly into the endpoint devices themselves. Each endpoint includes an integrated softswitch that enables it to act as both a client and a communication router. This eliminates the need for separate external softswitch infrastructure, reducing system complexity while maintaining the flexibility of peer-to-peer communication. Endpoints can dynamically route communications directly to each other without external mediation.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved system and method are disclosed for peer-to-peer communications. In one example, the method enables two endpoints to dynamically select one of multiple possible routes for inbound and outbound messages.