Virtual Machine Locator Code for Unauthorized Copy Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Virtual machines are difficult to protect against unauthorized copying and detection due to their intangible nature, with existing measures like copyright laws and license agreements being inefficient and ineffective.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a Virtual Machine Management Layer and Management Agent that registers and manages virtual machines, enabling detection of unauthorized use by modifying the boot process to point to a Systems Management Partition, which includes Locator Code for identifying and notifying the owner of unauthorized usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If virtual machines are made compatible with various environments through conversion utilities, then adaptability is improved, but vulnerability to unauthorized copying increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by embedding a management layer and locator code into the virtual machine before it is deployed. The management layer pre-configures the virtual machine with authorization verification capabilities, and the locator code is pre-positioned to track and identify unauthorized copies. This preliminary setup enables the virtual machine to automatically detect and report unauthorized usage without requiring external intervention later.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a management layer as an intermediary between the virtual machine and the host environment. This management layer acts as a mediator that verifies authorization, manages the virtual machine's operation, and coordinates with locator codes to detect unauthorized copying. The intermediary layer protects the virtual machine while maintaining its adaptability across different environments.
2Reliability
If conventional protection methods like copyright laws and license agreements are used, then legal protection is provided, but detection effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the virtual machine to automatically detect and report its own unauthorized copying through embedded locator codes. The virtual machine autonomously monitors its operation environment, verifies its authorization status, and sends location information to the owner when unauthorized usage is detected, eliminating the need for external detection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where locator codes continuously monitor the virtual machine's operation environment and provide information about authorization status. When unauthorized copying is detected, the system immediately feeds back location information to the owner, enabling real-time detection and response rather than relying on post-hoc legal processes.
3Reliability
If the virtual machine is disabled in unauthorized environments, then protection effectiveness is improved, but usability in legitimate environments may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the virtual machine's operational state adaptive rather than static. The virtual machine dynamically adjusts its behavior based on real-time authorization verification: it operates normally in authorized environments and automatically disables itself only when unauthorized copying is detected. This dynamic approach ensures high usability in legitimate scenarios while maintaining strong protection effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by applying different operational characteristics to different instances of the virtual machine based on their authorization status. Authorized virtual machines enjoy full functionality and usability, while unauthorized copies are selectively disabled. This localized differentiation maintains ease of operation for legitimate users while enforcing protection only where needed.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus of locating an unauthorized virtual machine are disclosed. A virtual machine is registered with a management system. When the virtual machine is requested to start, the system determines whether the virtual machine is in an authorized environment. In an authorized environment, the virtual machine is enabled to operate normally. In an unauthorized environment, the virtual machine is disabled. The disabled virtual machine gathers information about the unauthorized environment and transmits the information to the virtual machine owner.