A METHOD FOR DYNAMIC TUNNELING PROTOCOL SELECTION IN VIRTUAL PRIVATE CLOUD (VPC) ENVIRONMENTS

Abstract

The invention presents a method for dynamically selecting tunneling protocols in a Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) environment. The method analyzes application types, network conditions, and security requirements to determine the most suitable tunneling protocol, such as GRE, IPsec, or SSL/TLS. It monitors real-time network parameters, such as bandwidth availability and latency, along with application performance metrics, automatically switching protocols to maintain optimal efficiency and security. The system integrates with AWS infrastructure, leveraging cloud APIs for data collection and protocol management. Additionally, it includes an automated monitoring and switching system, a user-friendly interface for manual intervention, and an analytics module that logs and processes network data for optimization. The invention offers an adaptive, secure, and cost-efficient approach to managing VPNs within cloud environments, enhancing performance, and reducing operational complexity.

Specification

Description:[0001] The present invention relates to the field of virtual private cloud (VPC) networks and their management, particularly to methods for dynamically selecting and implementing tunneling protocols in cloud environments such as Amazon Web Services (AWS). The invention aims to optimize the efficiency, security, and performance of VPC networks by automating the selection process of tunneling protocols based on real-time network conditions, application requirements, and security needs.

Background of the Invention
[0002] Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs) are a fundamental element of modern cloud computing infrastructure, enabling organizations to create isolated, private cloud environments within shared, multi-tenant public cloud architectures. VPCs offer the benefits of private cloud computing, such as isolation, security, and customization, while leveraging the scalability and flexibility of public cloud resources.
[0003] Despite these advantages, managing VPCs can be complex, especially when configuring, managing, and monitoring Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) within the VPC environment. VPNs rely on tunneling protocols, which are communication protocols used to transfer data securely from one network to another by encapsulating private network communications across a public network. Examples of tunneling protocols include Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE), IPsec, and SSL/TLS.
[0004] Each tunneling protocol has its own advantages and limitations, and the choice of protocol can significantly affect the performance, security, and efficiency of the VPC. Current approaches often require manual configuration, which can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Furthermore, static configuration methods may not adapt well to changing network conditions or application-specific requirements, leading to suboptimal performance and increased management costs.
[0005] The need exists for a system that can automatically and dynamically select the most appropriate tunneling protocol based on application type, network conditions, and security requirements to optimize VPC performance, enhance security, and reduce complexity.

Objects of the Invention
[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a system that dynamically selects the most suitable tunneling protocol based on real-time analysis of application-specific requirements, such as latency sensitivity, bandwidth demands, and security levels.
[0007] Another object of the present invention is to optimize VPC performance by adapting tunneling protocols based on network conditions, including bandwidth availability, latency, and network congestion, thereby ensuring minimal latency and efficient data transfer.
[0008] Yet another object of the present invention is to enhance the security of VPC environments by selecting tunneling protocols based on real-time threat levels, encryption needs, and other security requirements, thereby offering adaptable and robust protection.
[0009] Another object of the present invention is to reduce the complexity of configuring and managing VPNs in VPC environments by automating the selection and implementation of tunneling protocols, minimizing manual intervention and configuration errors.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a cost-effective solution that minimizes the operational costs associated with VPN management in VPCs by integrating with existing cloud infrastructure, such as AWS, and optimizing resource usage through efficient protocol selection.

Summary of the Invention
[0011] The invention presents a method and system for dynamically selecting and implementing tunneling protocols within a VPC environment. The system leverages a combination of monitoring, analysis, and automation components to evaluate various parameters in real time, including application type, network conditions, security requirements, and bandwidth availability. Based on this analysis, the system selects the most appropriate tunneling protocol from a range of options, including GRE, IPsec, and SSL/TLS, and automatically switches protocols as conditions change.
[0012] The invention integrates seamlessly with cloud infrastructure services such as AWS and utilizes cloud APIs for real-time data collection and protocol management. The system's security manager component provides threat detection and encryption assessment, adjusting tunneling protocols to meet security requirements. The automated monitoring and switching system ensures that the VPC maintains optimal performance by dynamically adjusting to changes in the network and application environment.
[0013] The invention also includes a user interface that allows users to view real-time network data and protocol status. The interface provides options for manual intervention, if necessary, while an integrated analytics module logs and analyzes all protocol switches and network conditions, enabling further optimization.
[0014] In this respect, before explaining at least one object of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of set of rules and to the arrangements of the various models set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other objects and of being practiced and carried out in various ways, according to the need of that industry. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0015] These together with other objects of the invention, along with the various features of novelty which characterize the invention, are pointed out with particularity in the disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and the specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated preferred embodiments of the invention.

Detailed description of the Invention

[0016] An embodiment of this invention, illustrating its features, will now be described in detail. The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items.
[0017] The terms "first," "second," and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another, and the terms "a" and "an" herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item.

[0018] The present invention is designed to optimize the management of tunneling protocols within Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) environments by dynamically selecting the most appropriate protocol based on real-time analysis of network conditions, application requirements, and security needs. The system integrates various components to automate this process, ensuring that VPC environments remain efficient, secure, and cost-effective. Below is an expanded description of each component and its functionality:
1. VPC Creation Module
[0019] This module is the foundational component that enables the creation and management of VPCs within cloud environments such as Amazon Web Services (AWS). The module allows users to define the VPC parameters, including:
[0020] IP Address Ranges: Users can specify the IP ranges for the VPC, ensuring that resources are isolated from other networks.
[0021] Subnets: The module supports the creation of multiple subnets within the VPC, enabling segmentation of resources for better management and security.
[0022] Security Groups: Users can define security groups that control inbound and outbound traffic, ensuring that only authorized traffic flows through the network.
[0023] Routing Configurations: The module allows for the setup of custom routing tables that direct traffic within and outside the VPC.
[0024] This module integrates directly with cloud provider APIs (such as AWS API) to automate the VPC creation process, ensuring compatibility and seamless integration with the dynamic protocol selection system. It ensures that the VPC is configured to support the automated protocol management features of the invention.
2. Tunneling Protocol Analyzer
[0025] The tunneling protocol analyzer is responsible for evaluating the available tunneling protocols and determining their suitability based on the requirements of specific applications running within the VPC. The analyzer evaluates protocols like:
[0026] GRE (Generic Routing Encapsulation): Suitable for latency-sensitive applications that require low overhead.
[0027] IPsec: Ideal for applications that prioritize high security and require encrypted data transmission.
[0028] SSL/TLS: Useful for secure web applications and other services that require secure, authenticated connections.
The tunneling protocol analyzer assesses these protocols based on various criteria, including:
[0029] Latency: Determines which protocol provides the lowest latency for time-sensitive applications.
[0030] Bandwidth Usage: Evaluates the bandwidth efficiency of each protocol to ensure that bandwidth-intensive tasks are optimized.
[0031] Encryption Strength: Analyzes the security requirements of the application and matches it with the most suitable encryption strength offered by the protocols.
[0032] The analyzer provides the dynamic protocol selection engine with the necessary information to make protocol choices that align with the application and network environment, ensuring that the best protocol is selected for the situation.
3. Dynamic Protocol Selection Engine
[0033] The dynamic protocol selection engine is the core of the invention, continuously monitoring real-time parameters, including:
[0034] Network Bandwidth: Monitors available bandwidth to determine if the selected tunneling protocol is optimal for the current network load.
[0035] Network Latency: Measures latency levels to ensure that the chosen protocol provides the fastest response times, especially for latency-sensitive applications.
[0036] Application Behavior: Analyzes the behavior and requirements of applications within the VPC, such as data throughput demands and session stability.
[0037] Security Threat Levels: Integrates with the cloud provider's security services (e.g., AWS GuardDuty) to monitor for threats and determine the appropriate tunneling protocol based on the current security posture.
[0038] The engine uses this data to dynamically select the most appropriate tunneling protocol. For example, if latency-sensitive applications are detected, the engine might choose GRE for its low overhead. If a high-security requirement is identified, it may select IPsec for its strong encryption capabilities.
[0039] Additionally, the engine is programmed to switch protocols automatically when it detects changing conditions, such as increased network congestion or new security threats, ensuring that the VPC remains responsive and secure.
4. Security Manager
[0040] The security manager module integrates with the cloud provider's threat detection services to provide real-time threat assessments and encryption level evaluations. It plays a critical role in maintaining the security of the VPC environment by:
[0041] Real-Time Threat Detection: Analyzes data from the cloud provider's security services to detect potential threats, such as unauthorized access attempts or distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.
[0042] Encryption Assessment: Evaluates the encryption requirements of the applications running within the VPC and selects tunneling protocols that provide the necessary level of protection. For instance, if a high level of encryption is needed, IPsec or SSL/TLS would be selected to protect the data.
[0043] When the security manager identifies an increase in threat levels or new vulnerabilities, it communicates with the dynamic protocol selection engine to adjust the tunneling protocol to a more secure option. This proactive approach ensures that sensitive data is always protected, even as the threat landscape evolves.
5. Automated Monitoring and Switching System
[0044] This system continuously monitors network conditions, application performance, and security parameters. It works in tandem with the dynamic protocol selection engine to:
[0045] Monitor Bandwidth and Latency: Tracks bandwidth usage and latency levels in real-time to ensure that the selected tunneling protocol provides optimal performance.
[0046] Assess Application Performance: Evaluates the performance of applications running in the VPC to identify any performance bottlenecks caused by the tunneling protocol.
[0047] Protocol Switching: Automatically switches the tunneling protocol when it detects that the current protocol is not providing the desired performance. For instance, if latency exceeds a predefined threshold, the system may switch from a more secure protocol like IPsec to a faster one like GRE.
[0048] This automated system minimizes the need for manual intervention, ensuring that the VPC remains optimized without the need for constant monitoring by IT administrators. The automated protocol switching enhances efficiency, minimizes latency, and maximizes security, depending on the scenario.
6. User Interface and Management Console
[0049] The invention includes a comprehensive user interface and management console that provides a visual overview of the VPC environment. Key features of this interface include:
[0050] Real-Time Monitoring: Displays real-time information about network conditions, tunneling protocol status, and application performance.
[0051] Manual Override Capability: Allows users to manually select and switch tunneling protocols if desired. This feature provides flexibility for administrators who may need to override the system's automated selections for specific use cases.
[0052] Alerts and Notifications: Sends alerts and notifications to users when critical events occur, such as a protocol switch or a detected security threat. This keeps users informed and allows them to take action if needed.
[0053] The interface simplifies the management of VPCs and ensures that users have complete control and visibility over the system's operation.
7. Logging and Analytics Module
[0054] This module logs all activities related to tunneling protocol selection, including:
[0055] Protocol Switches: Records every instance of a tunneling protocol switch, along with the conditions that triggered the change.
[0056] Network Conditions: Logs data related to bandwidth, latency, and threat levels, providing a historical record of network performance.
[0057] Application Metrics: Tracks application performance metrics, including data throughput, response time, and session stability.
[0058] The analytics feature processes this logged data to generate comprehensive reports on the effectiveness of each tunneling protocol and the overall performance of the VPC environment. These reports help administrators optimize the VPC configuration further by providing insights into which protocols perform best under certain conditions. The data-driven approach enables continuous refinement of the dynamic protocol selection algorithm, ensuring the system's performance and security continue to improve over time.
[0059] By integrating these components, the invention provides a complete and automated solution for managing tunneling protocols within VPC environments. The system adapts dynamically to changing conditions, optimizing the performance, security, and cost-efficiency of the VPC, while reducing the complexity and manual intervention typically associated with VPN management.
[0060] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the present invention, and its practical application to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omission and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but such are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.
, Claims:1. A method for dynamically selecting tunneling protocols in a Virtual Private Cloud (VPC) environment, comprising the steps of:
a) analyzing application types, network conditions, and security requirements in real time;
b) automatically selecting an appropriate tunneling protocol based on the analysis, wherein the tunneling protocol is selected from a group comprising GRE (Generic Routing Encapsulation), IPsec, and SSL/TLS;
c) continuously monitoring network parameters including latency, bandwidth availability, and threat levels; and
d) automatically switching the tunneling protocol when network conditions or security requirements change to optimize performance, security, and efficiency within the VPC environment.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tunneling protocol selected is based on latency sensitivity, with GRE selected for low-latency requirements and IPsec selected for high-security needs.

3. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a security module that integrates with the cloud provider's security services to assess real-time threat levels and adjust the tunneling protocol accordingly.

4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the monitoring module triggers a switch in the tunneling protocol when network latency exceeds a predefined threshold, ensuring minimal response time and optimal application performance.

5. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an analytics module that logs all protocol switches, network conditions, and application performance metrics for analysis and optimization.

6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the dynamic protocol selection is integrated with cloud provider infrastructure, such as AWS, utilizing cloud APIs for real-time data collection and management of tunneling protocols.

7. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a user interface that displays real-time network data and tunneling protocol status, allowing manual override of the automatic selection if necessary.

8. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the security module adjusts tunneling protocols based on encryption requirements, ensuring that high-security tunneling protocols are deployed when sensitive data is detected.

9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the analytics module generates reports on protocol selection history, network performance, and efficiency, providing insights for future optimization of the VPC configuration.

10. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system automatically balances the selection of tunneling protocols to optimize cost-effectiveness, adapting to bandwidth availability and user demands to minimize cloud service costs while maintaining performance.

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