Remote Computer Management via Firewall-Compatible Protocols
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote computer management systems are hindered by firewalls and proxy servers, which prevent remote access and require disruptive software updates, leading to inefficiencies and security issues.
Innovation Solution
A remote computer management system that initiates communication with a remote server using protocols allowed by firewalls and gateways, detects proxy servers to route communications appropriately, and uses dynamically loaded libraries to update functionality without disrupting the system, allowing for secure and unobtrusive management of computers and connected devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a firewall and/or gateway is used to secure network access, then security is improved, but remote management capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote management server as an intermediary component that mediates between the administrator's computer and the managed computer. The server receives management requests, formats them according to protocols allowed by firewalls (such as HTTP on port 80), and relays them through the firewall to the target computer. This intermediary approach allows remote management to function while maintaining firewall security restrictions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If software updates are performed by uninstalling and reinstalling, then functionality is updated, but system disruption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a preliminary action by downloading and staging update components (such as DLL files) in a temporary location before actually applying them to the running remote management software. This allows the update files to be prepared and validated beforehand, then installed without requiring uninstallation of the main program, thereby avoiding system disruption and maintaining continuous operation.
3Reliability
If proxy server is used to control network access, then access control is improved, but direct communication capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The remote management server is designed with multi-functionality to handle various communication protocols and routing scenarios. It can detect whether a proxy server is present, adapt its communication method accordingly, and route requests through appropriate channels (direct connection or proxy server). This universal approach simplifies the overall system by providing a single server that handles multiple communication pathways.
4Reliability
If firewall restrictions are enforced to allow only specific protocols, then security is improved, but communication flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting communication parameters such as protocol type (HTTP, HTTPS), port numbers, and request formatting based on firewall restrictions. The remote management server can modify these parameters to comply with different firewall configurations, allowing communication flexibility while maintaining security requirements. For example, it can switch to HTTP on port 80 when HTTPS is blocked, or adjust request formats to match allowed protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention facilitates remote management of a computer via a network. Remote computer management in which communication between a managed computer and a remote computer management server is initiated by the managed computer is implemented so that the communication is formatted in accordance with a network communications protocol that can be used to format communication that is allowed to pass through a firewall and/or gateway that mediates communication with the managed computer.