QKD Tunnel Authentication for Dynamic IPsec Key Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing secure tunnel protocols between remote sites over public networks rely on pre-shared keys that are manually installed and rarely changed, posing security risks due to potential exposure and vulnerability.
Innovation Solution
Implement a quantum key distribution (QKD) subsystem to generate and share quantum-based secret keys for authenticating endpoints of an IPsec tunnel, ensuring periodic reauthentication using unique identifiers and synchronized key distribution to maintain secure communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pre-shared keys are manually installed and rarely changed, then ease of operation is improved, but security is worsened due to potential exposure and vulnerability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic key rotation where quantum-generated keys are automatically updated at predetermined intervals. The key management system transitions from static pre-shared keys to dynamically rotating quantum keys, ensuring security is continuously maintained without manual intervention. This resolves the contradiction by making the system adaptive rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The quantum key distribution system automatically generates, distributes, and rotates cryptographic keys without requiring manual installation or configuration. The system self-manages the entire key lifecycle including generation at quantum key distribution nodes, distribution to endpoints, and automatic rotation according to predetermined schedules, eliminating the need for manual key management while maintaining high security.
2Reliability
If quantum key distribution is implemented for periodic reauthentication, then security is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a quantum key distribution system as an intermediary layer between network endpoints. This mediator automatically handles the complex quantum key generation and distribution processes, shielding endpoints from complexity while providing enhanced security. The QKD system acts as a specialized service that manages quantum cryptographic operations without requiring endpoints to directly implement quantum technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments quantum key distribution functionality into separate dedicated nodes within the network infrastructure. Rather than requiring every endpoint to have quantum capabilities, the complexity is isolated to specific QKD nodes that generate and manage keys, while standard endpoints simply receive and use the distributed keys. This segmentation allows quantum security to be integrated without making the entire system complex.
3Ease of manufacture
If manual key input during configuration stage is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but loss of time is worsened due to lack of key updates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary key generation and distribution through automated quantum key distribution before authentication is needed. Keys are pre-generated by QKD nodes and automatically distributed to endpoints according to predetermined schedules, eliminating the need for manual key input during configuration. This preliminary automated action saves time and maintains security without requiring manual intervention during deployment or updates.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances security by regularly updating authentication keys, reducing the risk of unauthorized access and maintaining secure communication between remote sites.
Implementation Method 1
a quantum key distribution (QKD) subsystem collocated, in part, with the first network site and communicatively coupled with the first key host through a first secure subnetwork and, in another part, with the second network site and communicatively coupled with the second key host through a second secure subnetwork. The QKD subsystem is configured to produce at least one quantum-based secret key and share the at least one quantum-based secret key with the first key host and the second key host.
Data Source
AI summary
A framework for authenticating firewall and encryption devices (FEDs) as endpoints of a secure tunnel using quantum-based secrets keys are provided. The secure tunnel is between two network sites. A quantum key distribution (QKD) subsystem is collocated, in part, with a first network site in another part, with a second network site. The QKD subsystem generates and shares at least one quantum-based secret key with respective key hosts in the first network site and second network site. Each FED obtains the same quantum-based secret key from the respective key host and authenticate each other as endpoints of the secure tunnel to be established between the first network site and the second network site through the public network. The authentication may be repeated.