Router-Based P2P Access Control for Mixed-Security Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network security measures for peer-to-peer (P2P) connections are inadequate in preventing unauthorized access, particularly in networks with a mix of secure and unsecured devices, where unauthorized packets can disrupt communication.
Innovation Solution
Routers in the network identify and manage P2P connections by reading header information or comparing addresses, allowing secure connections while blocking unauthorized ones by modifying or preventing delivery of packets, and managing secure connections through address assignment and notification across the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If packet filtering and jamming are used to block unauthorized P2P connections, then network security is improved, but legitimate P2P connections are also blocked causing loss of connectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing secure P2P connections before blocking unauthorized ones. Routers are configured to first set up allowed P2P connections with specific devices, storing their addresses and connection parameters. Only after this preliminary establishment does the system block other P2P connections, ensuring legitimate connectivity is secured before security blocking takes effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by implementing selective packet filtering at different network locations. Instead of uniform blocking, the system identifies specific P2P connections by their addresses and applies different treatment: allowing packets for pre-configured secure connections while blocking packets for unauthorized connections. This localized approach ensures security measures are applied only where needed without affecting legitimate communications.
2Reliability
If all P2P connections are blocked by default, then unauthorized access is prevented, but network flexibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic connection management where the blocking rules are not static but can be adjusted. Routers can be reconfigured to allow or block specific P2P connections based on changing network requirements. The system dynamically establishes secure connections when needed and maintains the ability to adapt the blocking/allowing rules, providing both security and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal security mechanism that can handle multiple types of connections and scenarios. The same router infrastructure and packet filtering mechanism work for both blocking unauthorized P2P connections and allowing legitimate ones. The system serves multiple functions: default blocking, selective allowing, secure connection establishment, and dynamic reconfiguration, all through a unified approach.
3Productivity
If secure P2P connections are established before blocking, then legitimate connectivity is maintained, but device complexity and configuration effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically managing secure P2P connections once initial configuration is done. After administrators configure which devices should have secure P2P access, the routers automatically establish these connections, monitor them, and maintain the blocking/allowing rules without requiring continuous manual intervention. The system serves itself by tracking connection states and applying appropriate rules automatically.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the invention relate to a system comprising: one or more devices interconnected in a network; and one or more routers configured to forward packets to the devices; wherein at least one of the routers is configured to accept a secure connection from an external device and to store an address of the device as a valid address; and wherein the router is further configured, upon receiving a packet for establishing a peer-to-peer (P2P) connection, to check whether the packet originates from a valid address, and if so, to inform other routers in the network of the valid address and forward the packet in the network, and otherwise to prevent the packet from being forwarded.