Experience Secure and Scalable Device Onboarding with LFEdge Implementation of FDO (Fido Device Onboard)

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The LFEdge Implementation of the FDO Spec
3. About LFEdge
4. The Fido Device Onboard
   • Changing to Fido Device Onboard in 2023
   • Open Source Implementation
   • Apache 2.0 License
   • Integration into Products and Solutions
5. Other LFEdge Projects
   • Open Horizons by IBM
6. LFEdge Implementation Overview
   • HUB and Projects
   • PRI Fido OT
   • Client-side Implementations
7. The Demo Process
   • Manufacturing Step
   • Downloading the Onboarding Package
8. The Device Credential and FDO
9. Automating FDO
10. Getting Started with the Demo
    • LFH Site and GitHub Repository
    • Different Servers for Implementing Entities
11. The Manufacturing Process
12. The Device Directory and Payload
13. The Device Credential
14. Communication with the Rendezvous Server
15. Initiating the TO1 Protocol
16. Authentication and Encryption using TO2 Protocol
17. Establishing a Secure Connection to a DM
18. Delivering Credentials and Onboarding the Device
19. The Owner Side and Processing Commands
20. Late Binding in FDO
21. Conclusion

🚀 The LFEdge Implementation of the FDO Spec

Introduction The LFEdge Implementation of the FDO Spec, developed by Randy Templeton, is a cutting-edge implementation of the FDO (Fido Device Onboard) specification. This open-source implementation, licensed under Apache 2.0, offers seamless integration into a wide range of products and solutions. In this article, we will explore the LFEdge implementation of the FDO spec, its features, and the demo process that showcases its functionalities.

1. Introduction

The LFEdge Implementation of the FDO Spec, developed by Randy Templeton, is a cutting-edge implementation of the FDO (Fido Device Onboard) specification. This open-source implementation, licensed under Apache 2.0, offers seamless integration into a wide range of products and solutions. In this article, we will explore the LFEdge implementation of the FDO spec, its features, and the demo process that showcases its functionalities.

2. The LFEdge Implementation of the FDO Spec

The LFEdge Implementation of the FDO Spec is the result of extensive research and development efforts by Randy Templeton. This implementation aims to provide a robust and secure solution for onboarding devices onto the Fido platform. By adhering to the FDO spec, LFEdge ensures compatibility and interoperability with other Fido-enabled devices.

3. About LFEdge

LFEdge is an open-source collaborative project hosted by the Linux Foundation. It aims to establish an open, interoperable framework for edge computing. The LFEdge project focuses on driving innovation in the edge computing space and fostering collaboration among industry leaders. The LFEdge Implementation of the FDO Spec is one of the projects under the LFEdge umbrella.

4. The Fido Device Onboard

The Fido Device Onboard, commonly referred to as FDO, is a specification that defines a secure and scalable method for onboarding devices onto the Fido platform. It ensures that devices can be securely connected to Device Management Services (DMs) without compromising privacy or security.

• Changing to Fido Device Onboard in 2023: The LFEdge implementation, currently known as Secure Device Onboard, will be renamed to Fido Device Onboard in February 2023. This change aligns the LFEdge implementation with the industry-standard naming convention.

• Open Source Implementation: The LFEdge implementation of the FDO spec is an open-source project, available for anyone to use and contribute to. This open approach promotes transparency, collaboration, and innovation within the community.

• Apache 2.0 License: The LFEdge implementation is released under the Apache 2.0 license, which allows users to freely use, modify, and distribute the implementation while ensuring legal Clarity and protection.

• Integration into Products and Solutions: The LFEdge implementation can be seamlessly integrated into various products and solutions. Its flexible and modular design enables developers to leverage its capabilities and incorporate it into their existing ecosystems.

5. Other LFEdge Projects

LFEdge hosts several other projects that complement and enhance the functionality of the LFEdge implementation of the FDO spec. One of these projects is Open Horizons, developed by IBM, which incorporates FDO onboarding into its edge computing solution. The collaboration between LFEdge and Open Horizons showcases the interoperability and versatility of the LFEdge implementation.

6. LFEdge Implementation Overview

The LFEdge implementation includes several essential components and tools that facilitate the onboarding process. These components are hosted on HUB, the LFEdge repository, and can be easily accessed by developers.

• PRI Fido OT: The LFEdge implementation provides the PRI Fido OT, which serves as a reference implementation for the Fido device server end of the Fido Place Onboarding Specification. This reference implementation ensures the compatibility and adherence to the FDO spec.

• Client-side Implementations: The LFEdge implementation supports client-side implementations in various programming languages. While the demo showcased the Java implementation, the LFEdge implementation also offers a C-based implementation that is suitable for devices like Intel devices.

7. The Demo Process

The demo provides a step-by-step walkthrough of the onboarding process using the LFEdge implementation of the FDO spec. It highlights the critical stages involved in manufacturing and downloading the onboarding package to the device.

• Manufacturing Step: The demo starts with the manufacturing process, where the device obtains the necessary credentials required for onboarding. During the manufacturing stage, the device credential is obtained, and the device is made aware of the Rendezvous server's address.

• Downloading the Onboarding Package: After manufacturing, the device initiates a connection with the Rendezvous server using the TO1 protocol. This protocol helps the device identify the owner responsible for providing the onboarding package. Through the TO2 protocol, the device securely communicates with the owner, authenticates both parties, and establishes an encrypted tunnel. The device then downloads the onboarding package and stores it on the device.

8. The Device Credential and FDO

The device credential plays a crucial role in the FDO onboarding process. During the manufacturing stage, the device credential is obtained, which allows the device to establish a secure connection with the owner. The LFEdge implementation ensures that this credential is securely stored and used for authentication and encryption purposes during the onboarding process.

9. Automating FDO

While the demo showcases manual interactions for explaining purposes, it's important to note that FDO is designed to be automatable. In real-life scenarios, FDO automates the onboarding process, eliminating the need for user interactions. The LFEdge implementation guarantees zero-touch onboarding, enabling devices to seamlessly connect to DMs without any user involvement.

10. Getting Started with the Demo

To get started with the demo, developers can visit the LFEdge website and access the LFEdge GitHub repository. The repository contains various servers that implement the entities defined in the FDO spec, such as the rendezvous server, owner server, reseller server, and manufacturing server. Developers can download these servers and explore their functionalities.

11. The Manufacturing Process

During the manufacturing process, the device obtains the necessary credentials, including the device credential, required for onboarding. The LFEdge implementation leverages the DI protocol, a non-normative protocol defined in the FDO spec, to initiate the manufacturing process. This protocol facilitates the exchange of messages between the device and the owner, enabling the device to obtain its unique identifier.

12. The Device Directory and Payload

The device directory plays a crucial role in storing essential files and information related to the device's onboarding process. During the demo, the device directory contained a file called "payload.bin," which represents the onboarding package that will be downloaded to the device. This file doesn't exist initially but is downloaded during the demo.

13. The Device Credential

The device credential is a crucial component in the onboarding process. During the manufacturing stage, the device credential is obtained, allowing the device to authenticate itself during the onboarding process. The LFEdge implementation ensures the secure generation and storage of this credential, protecting the privacy and security of the device.

14. Communication with the Rendezvous Server

To initiate the onboarding process, the device establishes communication with the Rendezvous server. This server acts as an intermediary, providing critical information about the owner responsible for providing the onboarding package. Through the TO1 protocol, the device interacts with the Rendezvous server and obtains the necessary details to proceed further in the onboarding process.

15. Initiating the TO1 Protocol

The TO1 protocol helps the device connect with the owner and obtain the onboarding package. It ensures mutual authentication and secure communication between the device and the owner. Through the messages exchanged during the TO1 protocol, the device identifies the owner and establishes the groundwork for further interactions.

16. Authentication and Encryption using TO2 Protocol

Once the TO1 protocol is complete, the device proceeds to the TO2 protocol, where authentication and encryption take place. The device and owner mutually authenticate each other, ensuring that both parties are genuine and authorized. The TO2 protocol also establishes an encrypted tunnel between the device and owner, ensuring that all subsequent communication is secure.

17. Establishing a Secure Connection to a DM

Through the secure Channel established during the TO2 protocol, the device securely connects to a DM (Device Management) service. The LFEdge implementation ensures that all necessary credentials, such as certificates and passwords, are securely delivered through this trusted channel to establish a secure connection with the DM.

18. Delivering Credentials and Onboarding the Device

The LFEdge implementation provides a seamless mechanism for delivering credentials during the onboarding process. By leveraging the secure communication established through the TO2 protocol, credentials are securely delivered to the device. These credentials enable the device to securely connect to the DM and access the resources and services provided by the DM.

19. The Owner Side and Processing Commands

On the owner side, various processes and commands are executed to facilitate the onboarding process. These commands include processing requests, verifying signatures, and providing the necessary information to download the onboarding package. The LFEdge implementation ensures that all interactions between the device and owner are secure, authenticated, and encrypted.

20. Late Binding in FDO

The LFEdge implementation of the FDO spec follows a late binding approach for onboarding devices. This means that the necessary information, such as the owner's identity and the onboarding package details, are determined after the manufacturing stage. Late binding allows for greater flexibility and adaptability in the onboarding process, as devices can be onboarded without having prior knowledge of all the entities involved.

21. Conclusion

The LFEdge Implementation of the FDO Spec, developed by Randy Templeton, is a groundbreaking solution for securely onboarding devices onto the Fido platform. Through a robust implementation, adherence to the FDO spec, and seamless integration into products and solutions, LFEdge empowers developers to leverage the power of edge computing. With its open-source nature and active collaboration within the LFEdge project, the LFEdge implementation of the FDO spec continues to drive innovation and Shape the future of edge computing.

Highlights

• The LFEdge Implementation of the FDO Spec offers a secure and scalable method for onboarding devices onto the Fido platform.
• The LFEdge implementation is an open-source project licensed under Apache 2.0, promoting transparency and collaboration.
• It supports integration into a wide range of products and solutions, providing developers with the flexibility to incorporate it into their ecosystems.
• The LFEdge implementation can be seamlessly integrated with other LFEdge projects, such as Open Horizons by IBM.
• The onboarding process follows a late binding approach, allowing devices to be onboarded without having prior knowledge of all the entities involved.
• The LFEdge implementation ensures secure communication, authentication, and encryption through the TO1 and TO2 protocols.
• Automating the FDO process eliminates the need for user interaction, enabling zero-touch onboarding in real-life scenarios.
• The LFEdge implementation can be accessed through the LFEdge website and GitHub repository, where various entities and tools are available.

FAQ

Q: What is the LFEdge Implementation of the FDO Spec? A: The LFEdge Implementation of the FDO Spec is an open-source implementation of the Fido Device Onboard specification, providing a secure and scalable method for onboarding devices onto the Fido platform.

Q: What is the Fido Device Onboard (FDO)? A: FDO is a specification that defines a secure and scalable method for onboarding devices onto the Fido platform, allowing devices to securely connect to Device Management Services without compromising privacy or security.

Q: Is the LFEdge implementation compatible with other Fido-enabled devices? A: Yes, the LFEdge implementation adheres to the FDO spec, ensuring compatibility and interoperability with other Fido-enabled devices.

Q: Can I integrate the LFEdge implementation into my products and solutions? A: Absolutely! The LFEdge implementation is designed to be seamlessly integrated into various products and solutions, offering flexibility and modularity.

Q: What are the advantages of automating the FDO process? A: Automating the FDO process eliminates the need for user interaction, enabling zero-touch onboarding, and ensuring a seamless onboarding experience for devices.

Q: How can I get started with the LFEdge implementation of the FDO spec? A: You can visit the LFEdge website and access the LFEdge GitHub repository, where various servers and tools are available for download. This will allow you to explore the functionalities and capabilities of the LFEdge implementation.

Resources:

• LFEdge website: lfedge.org
• LFEdge GitHub repository: github.com/lfedge