Virtual Obfuscation Service for NFV Traffic Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Network function virtualization (NFV) introduces security concerns as companies transition from physical on-premise systems to cloud-based virtual systems, particularly due to the potential for monitoring and analysis of traffic patterns, which can reveal sensitive information and facilitate attacks.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a virtual obfuscation service that includes obfuscation components in both physical and cloud-based portions of the network, which mark and encrypt communications, and can be initiated on demand to add a layer of security by obscuring traffic patterns and preventing timing attacks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If companies transition from physical on-premise systems to cloud-based virtual systems using NFV, then network flexibility and dynamicity are improved, but security concerns worsen due to potential monitoring and analysis of traffic patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an obfuscation service as an intermediary component between network traffic sources and destinations. This service marks packets with obfuscation identifiers and manipulates traffic patterns to prevent unauthorized monitoring while maintaining legitimate network operations. The intermediary nature of this service allows NFV benefits to be retained while mitigating security risks from traffic analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes traffic parameters by introducing obfuscation markings and modifying traffic patterns. By altering packet identifiers, timing characteristics, and flow patterns through the obfuscation service, the system maintains network flexibility while making traffic analysis difficult for potential attackers.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If obfuscation service components are implemented in both physical and cloud-based portions of the network, then security against monitoring and timing attacks is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the obfuscation service into separate components: a first obfuscation service component in the physical network portion and a second obfuscation service component in the cloud-based virtual portion. Each component handles specific aspects of obfuscation independently, which manages complexity by localizing functions rather than creating a monolithic complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The obfuscation service components are designed to perform multiple functions: marking packets with obfuscation identifiers, preventing timing attacks through rate limiting, and maintaining network functionality. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby managing overall system complexity while providing comprehensive security protection.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for implementing a virtual obfuscation service in a network. In use, an obfuscation service component is initiated in a network system including one or more virtual services, the obfuscation service component including at least one of: at least one first obfuscation service component associated with a physical portion of the network system or at least one second obfuscation service component associated with a cloud-based virtual portion of the network system. Further, communication to be sent from the physical portion of the network system to the cloud-based virtual portion of the network system is identified. Additionally, the communication is directed from the physical portion of the network system to the first obfuscation service component associated with the physical portion of the network system. Furthermore, the communication is sent from the first obfuscation service component associated with the physical portion of the network system to the second obfuscation service component associated with the cloud-based virtual portion of the network system.