Secure Boot via Connecting Device Configuration Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer boot mechanisms require additional hardware for authentication, increasing costs and risking password leakage or forgotten credentials.
Innovation Solution
An electronic apparatus with at least two connecting devices and a storage device detects the current configuration of external devices and compares it to preset configurations, executing a corresponding function only if a match is found, allowing secure booting without additional hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional hardware (fingerprint device, hardware lock) is added for authentication, then security and authentication capability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making existing connecting devices (USB, HDMI, audio jacks) serve dual purposes: their original function for connecting external devices and an additional function for authentication. The system detects the configuration of these connecting devices and uses the detection results as authentication basis, allowing one device to perform multiple functions without adding dedicated authentication hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the electronic apparatus itself to perform authentication through its existing connecting devices. The processor detects the configuration of connecting devices and compares it with preset configurations stored in the storage device, enabling the apparatus to authenticate users using its own built-in components rather than requiring external authentication hardware.
2Reliability
If password authentication is used, then authentication capability is provided, but user convenience deteriorates due to manual entry requirements and password management burden
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-configuring authentication information associated with specific connecting device configurations. During boot, the system automatically detects the current connecting device configuration and compares it with preset configurations, eliminating the need for users to manually enter passwords or perform authentication actions at boot time.
3Reliability
If biometric or hardware lock authentication is implemented, then authentication security is improved, but manufacturing cost increases due to additional hardware requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing connecting devices serve dual purposes by enabling them to function as authentication components. The processor detects the configuration of connecting devices (such as which devices are connected, their types, and their arrangements) and uses this detection information for authentication, allowing the same hardware to provide both connectivity and security functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic apparatus uses its own existing connecting devices and processor capabilities to perform authentication functions. The system detects the configuration of its own connecting devices, compares the detected configuration with preset configurations stored in its storage device, and executes authentication based on the comparison results, eliminating the need for separate authentication hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic apparatus and a secure boot method thereof are provided. The electronic apparatus includes at least two connecting devices and a storage device. In the method, a current configuration of the connecting devices is detected, in which the current configuration includes one or a combination of a number, types, specifications and identifications of external devices connected with the connecting devices. Then, multiple preset configurations recorded in the storage device are retrieved and compared with the detected current configuration. If the current configuration matches one of the preset configurations, an apparatus function corresponding to the matched preset configuration is executed.