SMS-Based Remote Access for Private Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data center management systems face challenges in providing secure remote access to private networks without Internet or VPN connectivity, especially in situations like natural calamities or cyber-attacks where Internet access is limited or unavailable.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing Short Message Service (SMS) protocols to enable secure remote access and management of private networks by converting user inputs into encrypted text messages, allowing limited predefined functions to be executed on the remote system without Internet or VPN connectivity, using a mobile application and a monitoring component connected via GSM technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Internet or VPN connectivity is used for remote access to data centers, then access availability is improved, but system security and reliability deteriorate during Internet outages or cyber-attacks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces SMS messaging as an intermediary communication channel between the user's mobile device and the data center monitoring system. This alternative communication path bypasses the Internet and VPN infrastructure, allowing remote access to continue functioning during Internet outages or cyber-attacks. The SMS gateway acts as a mediator that enables command transmission and system monitoring through a different network pathway.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the communication parameter from Internet-based protocols (TCP/IP, VPN) to cellular network-based SMS protocols. This parameter change allows the system to operate over a different network infrastructure that remains functional when traditional Internet connectivity is compromised, thereby improving reliability during adverse conditions.
2Reliability
If SMS protocol is used for remote access without Internet connectivity, then system reliability is improved, but communication functionality is limited to predefined functions
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements partial action by enabling a limited set of critical predefined functions through SMS commands. Rather than attempting to support all possible remote access operations, the system focuses on essential functions such as system monitoring, alert reception, and critical control operations. This partial implementation maintains reliability during outages while accepting reduced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The command interface is segmented into predefined discrete functions that can be independently executed via SMS. Each SMS command corresponds to a specific predefined operation, breaking down the complex remote access functionality into manageable, reliable segments that can be executed through the limited SMS protocol.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If GPS location validation is implemented for security, then system security is improved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs GPS location validation and security verification without requiring user intervention. The monitoring system autonomously checks the user's location against authorized areas and validates commands based on pre-configured security parameters. This self-service approach enhances security while minimizing the operational complexity for the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides automatic feedback regarding location validation and command authorization. When a user attempts to execute a command, the system validates the GPS location and either permits or denies the command based on security policies. This feedback mechanism enforces security constraints while maintaining a relatively simple user interface.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments for providing secure communicate between a remote system in a private network by a mobile device using a mobile app using a short message service (SMS) protocol without using Internet Protocol (IP) communications. The mobile application is registered with the remote system using a pre-shared key (PSK), and SMS source validation by the remote system is performed using timestamp and location information provided by the mobile device. Any specified command to be executed on the remote system is validated against a set of authorized commands. Such embodiments are particularly useful for cases in which there is no or very low strength infrastructure for full Internet connectivity and/or where remote services desire to stay isolated with no public network connectivity.