Proxy Server for Secure Remote VM Console Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Providing remote VM console access in a cloud computing environment is tedious and error-prone due to the requirement for virtual private network (VPN) setup.
Innovation Solution
A method enabling remote access to a virtual machine (VM) console through a proxy server, where a first ticket is requested for the host identifier, followed by a second ticket for the proxy server, and a URL identifying the proxy server and ticket is transmitted to the remote computing device for access, using a WebSocket connection to establish communication between the remote device and the VM.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If VPN setup is used to provide remote VM console access, then secure access can be achieved, but the setup process becomes tedious and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a proxy server as an intermediary component between the remote client and the VM console. The proxy server handles the complex VPN connection establishment and console redirection automatically, eliminating the need for users to manually configure VPN settings while maintaining secure access. The proxy server acts as a mediator that simplifies the interaction between clients and cloud VMs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing users to access VM consoles through simple URL clicks without requiring manual VPN configuration. The proxy server automatically manages the connection establishment, ticket validation, and console redirection processes, making the system user-friendly while maintaining security.
2Reliability
If VPN setup is required for remote access, then security can be maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The proxy server serves as a centralized intermediary that encapsulates the complex security mechanisms. Instead of requiring clients to directly establish VPN connections and manage complex networking, all security-related operations are handled by the proxy server, simplifying the client-side implementation while maintaining robust security.
Solution Approach 2:
The access system is segmented into distinct functional components: the proxy server handles security and connection management, while clients only need to access a simple URL. This segmentation separates the complex security logic from the simple user interface, reducing overall system complexity at the client level.
3Ease of operation
If traditional remote access methods are used, then access functionality is provided, but fine-grained control and scalability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing proxy server connections and validating access tickets before allowing console access. This enables fine-grained control over who can access which VMs and under what conditions, while maintaining simple access functionality for authorized users.
Solution Approach 2:
The proxy server implements dynamic access control by validating tickets and managing connections in real-time. The system can dynamically grant or revoke access based on user credentials, VM attributes, and policy rules, providing scalability and fine-grained control without complicating the user access process.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of enabling remote access to a console of a virtual machine (VM) running in a host and managed by a VM management server, from a remote computing device, includes the steps of: in response to a request to access the console of the VM from the remote computing device, issuing a request for a first ticket, the first ticket including an identifier of the host in which the VM is running; upon receiving the first ticket, issuing a request for a second ticket to access a proxy server; and upon receiving the second ticket, transmitting a uniform resource locator (URL) identifying the proxy server and the second ticket to the remote computing device. The remote computing device accesses the console of the VM through the URL and the proxy server.