Wireless Network Key Distribution via Central Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for distributing cryptographic keys in wireless building installation systems are cumbersome, prone to errors, and vulnerable to manipulation, especially when integrating new devices or updating existing ones, as they require manual handling of master keys and lack robust security against unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
A method where the network server retrieves individual cryptographic keys from a central server via a secure connection, using identification information collected from devices, which are then used to encrypt and distribute network keys, eliminating the need for manual key handling and enhancing security by ensuring only authorized access to the central server can retrieve the master keys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual transmission of master keys is used, then security against unauthorized access is maintained, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of writing down and physically transmitting master keys with an automated electronic system. The central server automatically distributes master keys to network participants through encrypted electronic communications, eliminating the need for manual key handling while maintaining security through cryptographic protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a central server as an intermediary between network participants. This server acts as a trusted third party that securely stores master keys and automatically distributes them to authorized participants, replacing the direct manual transmission process and enabling automated key management.
2Reliability
If manual key handling is performed, then security control is maintained, but the complexity of the process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service system where the central server automatically performs key distribution tasks without requiring manual intervention. The server autonomously manages master key storage, retrieves appropriate keys based on participant identification, and distributes them through encrypted channels, reducing process complexity while maintaining security control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-storing master keys in the central server's secure database before network participants need them. This advance preparation eliminates the need for complex real-time key generation and distribution processes, simplifying the overall system while maintaining security.
3Productivity
If automated key distribution is implemented, then efficiency is improved, but security vulnerabilities to manipulation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by implementing encrypted communication channels before key distribution occurs. The central server and network participants establish secure encrypted connections in advance, preventing potential manipulation or interception during the automated key distribution process, thus maintaining security while enabling efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual key handling processes with automated electronic distribution through encrypted channels. This substitution eliminates human error and manipulation risks associated with manual processes while maintaining security through cryptographic protection, thereby improving efficiency without increasing vulnerability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method serves to securely provide a cryptographic key for wireless data transmission between network participants G1 to G3 organized in a network 2. For the purposes of this method, one of these network participants G1 to G3 is designated as server 3, which provides a cryptographic network key to the network participants G1 to G3 for communication. Communication between network server 3 and the other network participants G1 to G3 is encrypted using symmetric encryption. In a first step, network server 3 receives identification information SN1 to SN3 from each network participant G1 to G3.In a subsequent step, a secure connection to a central server 6 is used to retrieve the cryptographic key MK1 to MK3 assigned to each network participant G1 to G3, which is then stored securely in association with the identification information SN1 to SN3 of the respective network participant G1 to G3, and subsequently the network key is sent wirelessly to the respective network participant G1 to G3 using symmetric encryption.