USB Device Server Permission Management via Intermediary

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current server management systems lack effective methods for secure and customizable permission-based operation, especially in scenarios where hardware vendors need to cater to diverse user needs with varying performance levels, and there is a need for enhanced security and monitoring capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A USB device with a read-only memory storing user permissions, capable of transmitting these permissions to a server, entering safe mode, erasing memory, or shutting down upon decryption attempts, and equipped with an RFID interface for external monitoring, ensuring secure operation and customizable performance based on user permissions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a USB device with permission storage is used for server management, then security and customization are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A USB device serves as an intermediary between the user and the server, storing permission information locally and transmitting it to the server for authentication. This mediator approach enhances security by keeping sensitive permission data outside the server while enabling customized access control without requiring complex server-side changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If multiple security features (safe mode, memory erasure, shutdown) are implemented in the USB device, then security is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety featuresVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The USB device is pre-configured with multiple security response options (safe mode entry, memory erasure, server shutdown) that are activated based on detected threats such as decryption attempts or low battery voltage. This preliminary preparation of security measures allows rapid response to threats without requiring complex real-time decision-making logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If permission-based operation control is implemented, then adaptability to different user needs is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomizable performance levelsVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Different permission levels and operational capabilities are assigned to different USB devices based on specific user needs. Each USB device contains customized permission information that determines the level of server access and operational capabilities granted to the corresponding user, allowing tailored solutions without requiring a complex centralized authorization system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS10496300B2Method and apparatus for server management
Publication Date: 2019.12.03 EMC IP HLDG CO LLC
  • US10496300B2 patent drawing
  • US10496300B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a server management method and a management device. The method comprises determining whether a USB device is connected to the server, the USB device including a permission of a respective user to the server. The method further comprises: in response to determining that the USB device is connected to the server, transmitting the permission to the server to enable the server to be operated based on the permission.