Transparent File Encryption Layer for UCaaS
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for file encryption in unified communications as a service (UCaaS) platforms require re-compiling applications and/or operating systems, leading to system downtime and resource consumption.
Innovation Solution
A transparent file encryption layer is introduced between the application layer and the system/operating system layer, intercepting major file routines to apply customized file encryption without modifying existing service programs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If file encryption is implemented by re-compiling applications and operating systems, then file security is improved, but system downtime and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a file encryption layer as an intermediary component between the application layer and the operating system layer. This intermediary intercepts file access calls and handles encryption/decryption operations transparently, eliminating the need to re-compile applications while maintaining file security. The encryption layer acts as a mediator that protects data without modifying the core application code or OS kernel.
Solution Approach 2:
The encryption functionality is segmented into a separate, modular layer that operates independently from applications and the OS. This segmentation allows the encryption layer to be implemented as a standalone service that can be activated without affecting existing applications, thereby avoiding system downtime associated with re-compilation.
2Reliability
If file encryption is implemented by re-compiling applications and operating systems, then file security is improved, but development complexity and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The file encryption layer serves as a mediator that abstracts encryption complexity from applications. Applications interact with the encryption layer through standard file access interfaces, unaware of the underlying encryption mechanisms. This eliminates the need for applications to be re-compiled or modified, significantly reducing development complexity while maintaining robust file security.
Solution Approach 2:
The encryption layer provides universal encryption functionality that works across all applications without requiring application-specific implementations. Once the encryption layer is in place, it serves all file access operations uniformly, eliminating the need for complex, application-specific encryption code and reducing overall development complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If a transparent file encryption layer is introduced between application layer and OS layer, then ease of implementation is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The file encryption layer is designed as an intermediary that simplifies implementation by intercepting standard file access calls and handling encryption transparently. Applications continue to use normal file I/O interfaces without modification, making the implementation process straightforward while the encryption functionality is encapsulated within the intermediary layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The encryption layer is nested within the existing system architecture between applications and the OS, rather than replacing either component. This nested structure allows the encryption functionality to be integrated into the existing system flow without disrupting either the application layer or the operating system, balancing ease of implementation with manageable system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Communications service programs (e.g., packet-switched phone and conferencing software with recordings and voicemail) are enabled to process user data files using custom encryption methods, where the existing service programs should migrate to work with the encrypted data files. A framework is introduced between application and system layer for replacing the major file routines to apply user file encryption routines in a manner that is transparent for existing service programs without requiring re-compiling.