MANAGING SOFTWARE KEYS FOR NETWORK ELEMENTS

摘要

Methods and systems for managing software keys include distributing software keys from a vendor to a customer key manager at a secure customer network that includes network elements comprising a transport network operated by a customer. Responsive to a provisioning event involving a network element, the network element may request a software key from the customer key manager for a network service associated with the provisioning event. The customer key manager may manage the software keys issued to network elements within the secure customer network. The software key may be provided as a key file that may be encrypted.

主权项

1. A method for distributing software keys to network elements, the method comprising:
receiving, at a key manager, a request for a software key from a network element, wherein the software key is associated with a software license provided by a vendor for the network element; validating that the software key is available for the network element; generating a key file including the software key, wherein the key file includes a globally unique identifier associated with the network element; recording, in a key repository accessible to the key manager, a key-used indication that the software key was used in the key file; enabling the key file to be sent to the network element; and receiving a confirmation that the software key was used at the network element.