Token-Based Credential Renewal Service for Role Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
In large-scale computing environments, existing credential systems face difficulties in securely propagating and managing access controls, particularly in distributing and revoking short-term credentials, which can introduce vulnerabilities and complicate group-based access permissions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a role-based access control system using short-term security tokens, where roles are dynamically assumed by principals, and HMACs are used for authentication, with a two-step role assumption process and a credential renewal service for managing token updates and revocations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If short-term credentials are distributed to authenticate entities, then security is improved through time-bound access control, but device complexity increases due to token management and renewal mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The credential renewal service automatically manages short-term credentials by subscribing to role assumption events and propagating new credentials to principals without manual intervention. The system self-updates token information when roles are assumed, eliminating the need for manual credential distribution and renewal tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the credential renewal service subscribes to role assumption events, receives notifications when credentials need renewal, and automatically propagates updated credentials. This closed-loop feedback system ensures credentials are renewed timely without manual intervention.
2Ease of operation
If user-based credential systems are used with username and password, then ease of operation is maintained, but security vulnerabilities increase due to credential propagation and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces persistent username-password credentials with short-term security tokens that automatically expire. These disposable credentials are generated only when needed through role assumption events, reducing the attack surface while maintaining ease of use through automated token management.
Solution Approach 2:
The credential renewal service acts as an intermediary between role assumption events and principals. Instead of principals directly managing credentials, the service subscribes to events and automatically distributes tokens, simplifying the authentication process while enhancing security through automated credential lifecycle management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If group-based access permissions are implemented, then adaptability is improved for managing multiple users, but device complexity increases due to credential propagation to multiple entities
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments credential management by creating distinct role assumption events for different groups and principals. Each event is independently tracked by the credential renewal service, which subscribes to specific events and propagates credentials only to authorized principals, simplifying group management while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The credential renewal service provides universal functionality by handling all role assumption events across multiple groups and principals through a single subscription mechanism. This multi-functional approach simplifies group-based access control by centralizing credential propagation while maintaining adaptability for different groups and permission sets.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances security by providing fine-grained, time-bound access controls, reducing vulnerabilities through automatic token expiration and revocation, and enabling efficient management of group permissions without compromising system integrity.
Implementation Method 1
the authentication service generates an HMAC (hash-based message authentication code) that includes an expiration time
Data Source
AI summary
One or more clients of a service may obtain access to resources of the service using one or more roles. A role may be used to delegate access to resources that a principal normally would not otherwise have access to. Assuming a role may allow a principal to receive a token that provides access to resources according to permission associated with the role. Upon detecting an event in connection with the invalidation of a token associated with a role, a service may perform a workflow in connection with the principal.