{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853948","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9853948","title":"Tunnel interface for securing traffic over a network","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2017-03-24T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L","H04L"],"num_claims":14,"abstract":"Methods and systems for a flexible, scalable hardware and software platform that allows a managed security service provider to easily provide security services to multiple customers are provided. According to one embodiment, a method is provided for delivering customized network services to subscribers of the service provider. A request is received, at a service management system (SMS) of the service provider, to establish an Internet Protocol (IP) connection between a first and second location of a first subscriber of the managed security service provider. Responsive to the request, the SMS causes a tunnel to be established between a first and second service processing switch of the service provider which are coupled in communication via a public network and associated with the first location and the second location, respectively."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Tunnel Interface for Securing Traffic Over a Network patent addresses the growing need for flexible and scalable security solutions in modern networks. The core innovation lies in the creation of customized, secure tunnels between service processing switches, enabling managed security service providers (MSSPs) to deliver tailored services to multiple clients efficiently. The problem being solved is the inflexibility and high cost of traditional network security solutions, which often fail to meet the diverse needs of different organizations. The key technical approach involves using Internet Protocol (IP) connections to establish secure tunnels over a public network, managed by a service management system (SMS). This SMS automates the process of creating, configuring, and deploying security policies for each tunnel, ensuring that traffic is routed correctly and that security is enforced. The business value of this innovation lies in its ability to reduce costs, improve security, and enable new business models for MSSPs. By offering customized security services, MSSPs can attract new clients and retain existing ones. The market opportunity is significant, as businesses of all sizes are increasingly concerned about cyber threats and the need for robust network security. This technology provides a foundation for building highly agile and secure virtual networks, paving the way for future advancements in network virtualization and software-defined networking.","layman_explanation":"The Tunnel Interface for Securing Traffic Over a Network patent addresses the growing need for more flexible and customized network security solutions. Current network security systems often provide a one-size-fits-all approach, which can be inefficient and leave gaps in protection. Existing solutions often lack the ability to adapt to the specific needs of different businesses or departments within a company.\n\nThis patent introduces a system that creates secure, private 'tunnels' for data to travel through a network. Think of it like building a private road for each customer of a delivery service. Each road is designed to handle specific types of packages and has its own security measures. The technology uses Internet Protocol (IP) connections to establish these tunnels over existing networks. A central management system controls the creation and configuration of these tunnels, ensuring that data is routed correctly and that security policies are enforced.\n\nThis technology matters because it allows businesses to tailor their network security to their specific needs. It provides a competitive advantage by enabling managed security service providers (MSSPs) to offer more customized and effective services. The potential ROI is significant, as businesses can reduce their risk of cyberattacks and improve their compliance with regulations. This innovation enables more efficient and secure data transmission, leading to cost savings and improved productivity.\n\nLooking ahead, this technology could be applied to a wide range of industries, including healthcare, finance, and government. The market adoption timeline will depend on the willingness of businesses to embrace new security solutions and the ability of MSSPs to integrate this technology into their service offerings. The investment implications are positive, as this technology has the potential to disrupt the network security market and create new opportunities for growth.","technical_analysis":"The Tunnel Interface for Securing Traffic Over a Network patent presents a system for creating customized network services through secure tunnels. The technical architecture comprises service processing switches, a service management system (SMS), and a public network. The service processing switches handle traffic routing and security policy enforcement, while the SMS manages the tunnels and coordinates their creation. The SMS receives requests to establish IP connections and configures tunnels between relevant switches. Implementation details involve selecting a suitable tunneling protocol (e.g., IPsec), designing a scalable SMS architecture, and ensuring high-speed security policy enforcement. Performance characteristics depend on the chosen tunneling protocol and hardware acceleration capabilities of the switches. Integration patterns involve APIs for the SMS to communicate with network management systems and SDN controllers. Code-level implications include implementing the tunneling protocol, security policy enforcement mechanisms, and management interfaces. This technology can be integrated with software-defined networking (SDN) controllers to dynamically provision and manage secure tunnels, and with network function virtualization (NFV) to virtualize network security functions. This can lead to more agile and secure virtual networks.","business_analysis":"The Tunnel Interface for Securing Traffic Over a Network patent presents significant commercial opportunities within the managed security services market. The market opportunity size is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for robust and customized network security solutions. Competitive advantages include enhanced scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional security approaches. Revenue potential lies in offering tailored security services to a wide range of clients, with pricing based on the level of customization and security required. Business models can include subscription-based services, usage-based pricing, and value-added security features. Strategic positioning involves targeting MSSPs and enterprises seeking to improve their security posture and reduce costs. ROI projections are favorable, driven by increased revenue, reduced operational costs, and improved customer retention. This technology enables MSSPs to offer differentiated services, attract new clients, and increase profitability. It also empowers enterprises to improve their network security and protect sensitive data, leading to reduced risk and improved compliance.","faqs":null,"topics":["network security","tunneling","managed security","IP connection","security service provider","tunnel","interface","securing"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Secure Tunnel Interface - Patent US-9853948","description":"Discover how Tunnel Interface for Securing Traffic Over a Network secures traffic over a network. Full patent analysis, claims, and technical details.","keywords":["network security","tunneling","managed security","IP connection","security service provider","patent","patent US-9853948"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853948","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853948","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Tunnel interface for securing traffic over a network\" (US-9853948). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853948","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9853948","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9853948","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T05:08:09.802Z"}