Software Security with Distributed Hash Tables and Blockchain Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing and controlling access to digital assets like computer software are limited in versatility and do not effectively leverage blockchain technology for automated tasks and enhanced security.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using a distributed hash table and a peer-to-peer distributed ledger (blockchain) to secure computer software by determining metadata based on hash values and cryptographic keys, enabling secure transmission and access control through a redeem script.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional methods are used for securing digital assets, then implementation is simpler, but security and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a blockchain system as an intermediary layer between digital assets and users. The blockchain stores cryptographic hashes of assets and manages access control through smart contracts, providing security without requiring direct modification of the underlying asset storage systems. This mediator approach enhances security while maintaining relative simplicity in asset management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates cryptographic hash copies of digital assets and stores them on the blockchain. These hash copies serve as verifiable representations that prove asset existence and integrity without storing the actual assets. This copying mechanism provides security through cryptographic verification while avoiding the complexity of managing large asset files directly on the blockchain.
2Adaptability or versatility
If blockchain technology is fully integrated for automated tasks, then versatility and security are enhanced, but implementation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal blockchain-based framework that can secure multiple types of digital assets (software, media files, documents) through a single system architecture. The smart contract system provides multi-functional capabilities including access control, asset verification, and automated licensing, enabling one system to serve multiple purposes across different asset types and use cases.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the security system into separate functional modules: asset hashing, blockchain storage of hashes, smart contract execution for access control, and verification mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be developed and implemented independently, reducing overall implementation complexity while maintaining system versatility.
3Reliability
If cryptographic verification is performed for each transaction, then security and integrity are improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs cryptographic hashing of digital assets in advance and stores these hashes on the blockchain before any access or transaction occurs. When transactions happen, the system only needs to verify against pre-computed hashes rather than performing full cryptographic verification of the entire asset, significantly reducing processing time while maintaining integrity verification.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method and system for determining a metadata M for securing a controlled digital resource such as computer software using a distributed hash table and a peer-to-peer distributed ledger. This is a blockchain such as the Bitcoin blockchain. The method includes determining a data associated with the computer software and determining a first hash value based on the computer software. A second hash value based on the data and the computer software may be determined. The method further includes sending 140, over a communications network, the data, the first hash value and the second hash value to an entry for storage in a distributed hash table. The second hash value may be a key of a key-value pair. The data and the first hash value may be a value in the key-value pair. A metadata (M) that is based on the second hash value may be determined for storage on the peer-to-peer distributed ledger.