Workflow Penetration Testing via Cloud Container Runtime
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current penetration testing methods often rely on local computers with inadequate processing power and memory, involve manual labor, and result in complex, unmaintainable scripts that are difficult to adapt and require specialized knowledge, making them costly and inaccessible to newcomers in the cybersecurity field.
Innovation Solution
A workflow system that executes penetration testing tools as individual nodes, allowing for modular and adaptable workflows that can be composed like building blocks, deployed on cloud infrastructure for greater computational resources, and incorporating runtime abstraction and machine learning for tool optimization and compliance functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If local desktop and laptop computers are used for penetration testing, then portability and accessibility are improved, but processing power and memory are insufficient for large penetration testing tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions penetration testing from local devices to cloud-based virtual machines, adding a dimensional shift from edge computing to centralized cloud infrastructure. This enables access to enterprise-grade computing resources while maintaining accessibility through web-based interfaces and automated workflow submissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer consisting of cloud-based virtual machines and containerization technology between the user and penetration testing tools. This intermediary provides the necessary processing power and memory while allowing users to interact through simplified interfaces, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and computational capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual penetration testing is performed, then flexibility and adaptability are improved, but labor intensity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments penetration testing into discrete, reusable workflow components and modular test cases that can be independently configured and executed. This segmentation maintains flexibility through customizability while improving productivity by eliminating redundant manual setup and enabling parallel execution of multiple test scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service automation where the system automatically provisions virtual machines, configures penetration testing environments, executes workflows, and generates reports without manual intervention. This maintains adaptability through programmable workflows while dramatically improving productivity by eliminating repetitive manual labor.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex penetration testing scripts are created, then functionality and coverage are improved, but maintainability and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent breaks down complex penetration testing scripts into smaller, modular workflow components with defined inputs and outputs. Each component performs a specific function and can be independently maintained, updated, and reused across multiple testing scenarios, thereby maintaining functionality while reducing overall system complexity and improving maintainability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates universal, parameterized workflow templates that can be configured for different testing scenarios through configuration parameters rather than custom scripting. This maintains broad functionality and coverage while simplifying the underlying implementation, making workflows easier to maintain and adapt to new requirements.
4Reliability
If specialized knowledge is required for penetration testing, then testing quality and depth are improved, but accessibility and ease of entry deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer of pre-configured workflows, automated environment setup, and standardized interfaces between novice users and complex penetration testing tools. This intermediary maintains testing quality by ensuring proper configuration and execution while lowering the barrier to entry through simplified user interactions and guided workflows.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service automation that handles complex configuration, environment provisioning, and tool setup automatically, allowing users with minimal specialized knowledge to execute comprehensive penetration tests. The system maintains reliability through automated best practices and validation while improving ease of entry by eliminating the need for deep expert knowledge.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are disclosed for a method. The method includes receiving a submitted workflow for penetration testing. The submitted workflow includes execution instructions for a multiple penetration testing tools. The method also includes providing the submitted workflow for a workflow runtime manager. Additionally, the method includes generating, by the workflow runtime manager, a first worker container that executes a first penetration testing tool of the penetration testing tools, using a first runtime. The method further includes executing the first penetration testing tool. Also, the method includes generating, by the workflow runtime manager, a second worker container that executes a second penetration testing tool of the penetration testing tools, using a second runtime. Further, the method includes executing the second penetration testing tool.