SSL/TLS VPN Client RNAT Cloud On-Premises Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Establishing secure connectivity between enterprise servers and cloud-based computing resources is complex, requiring significant technical investment and internal governance processes, particularly with IPsec VPN tunnels, which can be burdensome for enterprise customers.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an SSL/TLS-based VPN tunnel combined with reverse Network Address Translation (RNAT) at the client endpoint, eliminating the complexities of IPsec VPNs by allowing secure communication without the need for IPsec endpoint deployment or exposing IP endpoints outside the private network firewall.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If IPsec VPN tunnel is used for secure connectivity, then security is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring endpoint deployment and firewall configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an SSL/TLS-based VPN gateway as an intermediary component that mediates secure connectivity between cloud services and on-premises resources. This gateway handles the cryptographic operations and tunnel establishment, eliminating the need for complex IPsec endpoint configurations while maintaining security through SSL/TLS protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/IP-layer approach of IPsec VPN with an application-layer SSL/TLS approach. Instead of configuring IPsec endpoints and handling IP packet encryption at the network layer, the system uses SSL/TLS certificates and handshake protocols at the application layer, which are inherently simpler to deploy and manage while providing equivalent security.
2Reliability
If IPsec VPN tunnel is deployed for secure connectivity, then security is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to requiring technical investment and governance processes
Solution Approach 1:
The SSL/TLS-based VPN gateway performs self-service by automatically managing certificate-based authentication and tunnel establishment. The system can autonomously negotiate secure connections with cloud services using pre-configured certificates, eliminating the need for manual IPsec policy configuration and reducing dependence on complex governance processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameters of VPN establishment by transitioning from IPsec's network-layer packet encryption to SSL/TLS's application-layer record encryption. This parameter change includes using certificate-based authentication instead of pre-shared keys, and establishing TLS sessions instead of IPsec SA, which simplifies operational procedures while maintaining security.
3Reliability
If traditional VPN approaches are used, then secure communication is achieved, but adaptability worsens due to fixed IP address configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the VPN connectivity from the network dimension (IPsec at IP layer) to the application dimension (SSL/TLS at application layer). This dimensional change allows the system to abstract away specific IP address configurations and network topology details, providing greater adaptability to different network environments while maintaining secure communication through SSL/TLS protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
Connectivity required for cloud computing services is provided by an SSL/TLS-based VPN client computer system operatively connected to a customer network of a cloud service customer. The VPN client instantiates an SSL/TLS-based VPN tunnel with an SSL/TLS-based VPN server operatively connected to a provider network of a cloud services provider. The VPN client facilitates digital data communications with one or more computing resources comprising the customer network by using a reverse network address translation (RNAT).