Secure Translator Proxy for Legacy Device Network Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The security of connected devices often deteriorates beyond their initial design standards, leading to potential security risks and the need for costly replacements, which can be mitigated by extending the lifespan of insecure devices through a secure translator.
Innovation Solution
A secure translator acts as a proxy between insecure devices and other networked devices, sanitizing and translating communications to ensure compliance with current security standards, thereby allowing insecure devices to remain operational while maintaining network security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If insecure devices continue to be used beyond their security lifecycle, then device lifespan is extended and replacement costs are reduced, but security risks and vulnerability to attacks increase
Solution Approach 1:
A secure translator device is introduced as an intermediary between insecure legacy devices and the network. The translator receives communications from the insecure device, sanitizes them by removing potentially harmful elements, and forwards only safe communications to the network. This mediator approach allows the insecure device to remain operational while its security vulnerabilities are isolated from the network.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into three distinct components: the insecure legacy device, the secure translator, and the network. This segmentation isolates the security risks of the legacy device within a controlled environment managed by the translator, preventing direct exposure to the network while allowing functional continuity.
2Reliability
If insecure devices are replaced with secure devices, then security posture is improved, but cost increases and device replacement complexity arises
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of replacing the entire insecure device, the system creates a virtual copy or proxy (the secure translator) that replicates the communication interface and functionality of the legacy device while implementing modern security protocols. This copying approach maintains compatibility with existing systems without requiring physical replacement of costly or specialized devices.
3Reliability
If secure translators are deployed to protect insecure devices, then network security is maintained, but system complexity and translation overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The secure translator autonomously performs security functions including monitoring communications from the insecure device, analyzing potential threats, sanitizing harmful elements, and filtering communications before forwarding to the network. This self-service capability reduces the need for manual security management and external intervention, offsetting the initial system complexity with automated security enforcement.
Data Source
AI summary
A secure translator is described herein for use with an insecure device. An insecure device is a computing device that either does not have the ability to or can no longer communicate at desired security levels. The secure translator is configured to act as a proxy for insecure devices, allowing for full translation of any inbound communication to be secured, with information scrubbed or otherwise manipulated, then translated over a direct connection to the insecure device.