Secure Key Generation for 5G Inter-System Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Advanced wireless communication systems lack a secure key (SK) to guarantee the reliability and security of data transmission, particularly in environments where current and next-generation systems coexist, leading to vulnerabilities in data privacy and integrity.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for generating a secure key (SK) in an advanced wireless environment by exchanging parameters between a terminal and a base station, using a key derivation function (KDF) and algorithm-specific identifiers to create a secure key for inter-system communication, ensuring robustness against exposure and unauthorized use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a secure key is generated using a key derivation function with algorithm identifiers and distinguishers, then data transmission security and reliability are improved, but the complexity of the key generation process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The secure key generation process is segmented into distinct functional components: a key derivation function (KDF) that processes multiple parameters including algorithm identifiers and distinguishers. Each parameter serves a specific security function, and the segmented approach allows systematic management of complexity while ensuring comprehensive security coverage for inter-system communication
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining algorithm identifiers and distinguishers that are incorporated into the key derivation process before actual data transmission occurs. This preliminary configuration ensures that security parameters are established in advance, reducing runtime complexity while maintaining high security standards
2Reliability
If a new secure key mechanism is introduced for advanced wireless systems, then security against unauthorized use is improved, but compatibility with existing infrastructure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The key derivation function is designed with universal applicability, accepting multiple types of inputs including algorithm identifiers and distinguishers that can represent different security algorithms. This multi-functional design allows the same KDF mechanism to serve both legacy and advanced wireless systems, ensuring backward compatibility while enabling enhanced security for 5G and pre-5G networks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces algorithm identifiers and distinguishers as intermediary elements that mediate between existing infrastructure and advanced security requirements. These intermediaries allow the system to selectively apply appropriate security algorithms based on the communication context, maintaining compatibility with legacy systems while enabling robust security for advanced wireless communications
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a 5G or pre-5G communication system for supporting a higher data transfer rate beyond a 4G communication system such as LTD. A method of a terminal connected to another base station (BS) for a second communication system in a wireless environment, the method comprising receiving, via the another BS from a BS for the first communication system, a radio resource control (RRC) connection reconfiguration message comprising information regarding a first key, generating a secure key for a security of the first communication system based on the first key, an identifier (ID) for indicating an algorithm for applying to the first key, a distinguisher for indicating a function of the algorithm indicated by the ID, and transmitting, to the BS, a signal based on the generated secure key.