Portable Security Tool for Authentication Key Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional network security methods, such as usernames and passwords, and dual/multi-factor authentication, are vulnerable to phishing, malware, and brute force attacks, especially when users access internal systems from external devices, posing risks to sensitive data and network security.
Innovation Solution
A centrally-located security tool that generates alpha-numeric keys upon user access to internal systems, which are stored on both the system and the user's device, and a portable security tool that synchronizes these keys to authenticate users even when the primary system is unreachable, ensuring that only authorized access is granted.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional network security methods (usernames and passwords) are used, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to vulnerability to phishing, malware, and brute force attacks
Solution Approach 1:
The authentication process is segmented into multiple independent stages: initial credential verification, dynamic key generation, and multi-factor authentication. Each stage operates independently with its own security controls, so compromise of one stage does not automatically lead to full system compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-generating and distributing authentication keys to authorized devices before actual access is needed. These keys are established in advance through secure channels and stored locally, enabling rapid authentication without real-time server communication during critical access events.
2Reliability
If dual/multi-factor authentication methods are implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional authentication requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service authentication where authorized devices automatically possess and present their authentication keys without requiring manual intervention or complex user configuration. The keys are generated and stored locally on user devices, eliminating the need for users to manually manage multiple authentication factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication key serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a device identifier, an authentication credential, and a security certificate. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would traditionally require separate authentication mechanisms into a single versatile credential.
3Reliability
If centralized authentication systems are used, then reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates when the primary system becomes unreachable during emergencies
Solution Approach 1:
Authentication keys are pre-distributed to authorized devices before any potential system outage occurs. This preliminary distribution ensures that devices have the necessary credentials stored locally, enabling them to authenticate with the system or with each other even when the central authentication server is unavailable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from purely centralized authentication to a hybrid model where authentication capability is distributed to local devices. Each authorized device maintains local authentication credentials and can perform authentication operations independently, providing geographic and functional distribution of security capabilities.
4Ease of operation
If external devices are permitted to access internal systems, then ease of operation is improved, but object-affected harmful factors increase due to expanded attack surface
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary authentication layer between external devices and internal systems. This intermediary validates device credentials, enforces access policies, and mediates all communication between external devices and internal resources, preventing direct unauthenticated access while enabling legitimate remote connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary anti-action by pre-establishing security policies, device authorizations, and access controls before external devices attempt to connect. Authentication keys are pre-distributed and validated, and access decisions are predetermined based on device identity and purpose, preventing unauthorized access attempts from succeeding.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes a memory, and a processor. During a first mode of operation, the hardware processor obtains a first key and a second key from a first system. The first system includes a first subsystem and a second subsystem. The first key indicates that a user previously accessed the first subsystem and the second key indicates that the user previously accessed the second subsystem. During a second mode of operation, the processor receives a request indicating that the user is seeking to access the second system. The processor then performs an authentication of the user, which includes receiving an authentication string from the user that includes a first user key and a second user key, determining that the first user key matches the first key, and determining that the second user key matches the second key. In response, the processor provides the user with access to the second system.