TPM Challenge-Response Authentication for Passwordless Multi-Service Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing method of user authentication using usernames and passwords is cumbersome due to varying requirements across different providers, leading to security vulnerabilities from interception and the need to remember multiple credentials.
Innovation Solution
An authentication system utilizing an intermediary authentication server that communicates with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) on user devices, eliminating the need for password transfer and enhancing security through device verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If username and password authentication is used, then users can access online services, but password security vulnerabilities and management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the password from the authentication process entirely. Instead of using passwords, the system uses public key infrastructure where the private key remains securely stored in the TPM and never leaves the device. The authentication is performed using the public key and cryptographic challenges, completely removing the password management burden and security vulnerabilities associated with passwords.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an authentication server as an intermediary between the user device and the service provider. This server facilitates the cryptographic challenge-response authentication process, verifying the device's possession of the private key through cryptographic proofs without requiring the actual private key to be transmitted. This intermediary enables secure authentication while maintaining simplicity for end users.
2Ease of operation
If passwords are transferred over the network, then authentication can be completed, but security vulnerabilities during network transfer increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes passwords from the network transmission entirely. Authentication is performed using cryptographic protocols where only public keys and challenge-response data are exchanged over the network. The private key never leaves the secure TPM, and no secret information is transmitted, eliminating the risk of password interception during network transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/password-based authentication system with a cryptographic system. Instead of transmitting secret passwords, the system uses mathematical cryptography based on public key infrastructure and zero-knowledge proofs, where authentication is achieved through computational verification rather than secret sharing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple passwords are required for different services, then service access is enabled, but user memory burden and authentication complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal authentication mechanism using public key infrastructure that can be applied across multiple services. The TPM-generated key pair serves as a universal credential that works with any service that supports the authentication protocol, eliminating the need for service-specific passwords while maintaining the ability to access multiple services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the user's identity in the form of a public key that can be safely shared and replicated across multiple services. Unlike passwords that must be kept secret and unique, the public key can be freely distributed to multiple services without security risks, allowing the same authentication credential to work universally across different platforms.
Data Source
AI summary
We propose a method of authenticating a client device with a provider. The method includes receiving an authentication request from the client device at an authentication server. The method includes sending a challenge to a hardware-based security module of the client device based on the authentication request. The method includes receiving a response to the challenge and identifying the provider corresponding to the authentication request. The method includes authenticating the client device with the provider based on the authentication request and the response to the challenge.