We have presented the design and implementation of Enclaves, which is an Internet-environment toolkit that makes it easier to build secure group-oriented applications. The toolkit contains mechanisms for dynamic group formation, secure group management, and secure group communication. Our prototype and preliminary performance measurements indicate that organizing secure, closely coupled user groups over the Internet is practical with currently available technology. Enclaves does not require privilege to install or run, and does not require a complicated access control mechanism.
To demonstrate the usability of the toolkit, we have built a secure file-sharing application that allows members of the same group to introduce files for sharing and co-editing within the group. The application allows concurrent editing via the concept of a locked region, which can be as small as containing zero or a single character, and a system-independent text file manipulation language.
We are currently developing version 1.1 to use Tcl7.5/Tk4.1, which are supported on Unix platforms as well as on Microsoft Windows and MacOS machines. One of the goals is to reduce platform dependent codes, which are mostly related to cryptographic operations. Parallel to this effort, we are developing Enclaves 2.0 from scratch, where integrating with web technology is a major objective. Another priority item is to incorporate secure audio and video into Enclaves, which will greatly improve coordination among group members. We are in the process of making the API and the code available.
 Need help? Use our Contacts page.
Last changed: 1 May 2002 aw |
|
Conference Index