Set-Top Box Secure Content Sharing via Satellite Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data sharing systems between set-top boxes lack secure and controlled mechanisms for content access, allowing unauthorized devices to access shared content.
Innovation Solution
A satellite communication system with a distribution server provides access control information to set-top boxes, enabling secure content sharing by encrypting and decrypting data using cryptographic keys, ensuring only authorized devices can access shared content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If content is shared between set-top boxes without access control mechanisms, then content accessibility is improved, but security deteriorates allowing unauthorized devices to access shared content
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an access control information mechanism as an intermediary between the content sharing function and the set-top boxes. This intermediary verifies device authorization before allowing content access, thereby maintaining security while enabling content sharing. The access control information acts as a mediator that balances accessibility requirements with security constraints.
2Reliability
If access control information is implemented for secure content sharing, then security is improved, but device complexity worsens due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The access control information mechanism is designed to be universal across multiple set-top boxes and content types. Rather than implementing separate complex control systems for each device or content type, a single access control framework handles security for all participating devices, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining security.
3Reliability
If cryptographic keys are used for data encryption, then security is improved, but processing time worsens due to encryption and decryption operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-distributing access control information and cryptographic keys to authorized set-top boxes before content sharing occurs. This preparation work is done in advance through the satellite communication system, so that when content sharing is initiated, the encryption and decryption operations can proceed efficiently without delays related to key distribution or authentication setup.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments facilitate secure content sharing between a plurality of receiving devices, such as set-top boxes. One embodiment is a system with a distribution server communicatively coupled via a satellite communication system to a plurality of set-top boxes that are located at different customer premises. The distribution server is operable to provide access control information via the satellite communication system to a first set-top box and a second set-top box of the plurality, with the access control information enabling the first set-top box to securely share content of the first set-top box with the second set-top box. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract, and it is submitted with the intention that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.