Packet Header Randomization

Monitoring and controlling traffic in a network is a continuous requirement because of the regular sharing of sensitive and personalized data. Conventional techniques use the source and destination addresses in packet headers, often exposing network traffic patterns, that lead to network vulnerabilities. Consequently, there is a significant need for a system that can ensure the safe transit of network packets while preserving users' privacy. The existing practices are often predictable because they utilize the same source and destination addresses in packet headers that can be exploited to discern network traffic patterns. Malicious actors could use this predictability to breach network security, meaning that these approaches fall short in terms of safety and anonymity. Therefore, a more secure and unpredictable system for network data transit is required.

Technology Description

This system and method involve the randomization of packet headers used in network routing. The technology uses a controller to provide random values, also known as nonces, that replaces the traditional source and destination addresses in packet headers. The controller also supplies the network's switches and routers with routing rules to ensure proper packet routing despite the absence of source and destination addresses. Network devices compatible with software-defined networking (SDN) might be utilized in some iterations. The frequency of usage of a particular nonce could be variable, with the possibility of some nonces used for a single packet header. The introduction of nonce replaces the usual addresses,  enabling packets to navigate a network with nonces instead of the actual source and destination addresses. By periodically changing the nonces, the technique makes it exceedingly challenging to discern traffic patterns. The proposed technology introduces an unpredictability element into network routing, thereby enhancing anonymity and reducing the chance of unauthorized data access.