Tech Update: IEEE 802.1 AR, streamlining device identity management with EJBCA and certificate issuance

Here is our latest tech update on IEEE 802.1 AR, focusing on leveraging EJBCA for certificate issuance and management. This standard and EJBCA enable you to establish robust digital identities for devices throughout their lifecycle, ensuring a secure 'chain of trust' across the ecosystem.

Overview of IEEE 802.1 AR

IEEE 802.1 AR presents a comprehensive framework for managing standardized digital identities across the device lifecycle, spanning manufacturing, provisioning, maintenance, and decommissioning. The end goal is to achieve a zero-touch provisioning scheme, and thus minimizing manual intervention.

Enhancing Device Security and EJBCA

Using EJBCA opens possibilities for issuing standard compliant IEEE 802.1AR certificate-based identities, including secure Initial Device Identifiers (IDevIDs) and Locally Significant Device Identifiers (LDevIDs) for local authorization. These cryptographically bound identifiers are assigned uniquely to each device, attesting to the solution’s supply chain integrity and forming the foundation for zero-touch onboarding.

Benefits of IEEE 802.1 AR

• Interoperable Security: IEEE 802.1AR utilizes Secure Device Identifiers (DevIDs) compatible with standard authentication and provisioning protocols. This includes manufacturer-provided IDevIDs and Locally Significant Device Identifiers (LDevIDs) for local authorization, ensuring tamper-proof and unique credentials.
• Simplified Management: By harnessing IEEE 802.1AR, you can streamline maintenance and management of devices. The benefits extend to various protocols, such as OPC-UA, OPC10000-21, and Bootstrapping Remote Secure Key Infrastructure (BRSKI) RFC8995.

Leveraging EJBCA for Certificate Issuance

With EJBCA, you have the tools to issue both IDevID and LDevID certificates, establishing a robust security infrastructure that aligns with your solution.

You can access our use case page, which includes YouTube tutorials and corresponding documentation, by clicking on this link.

After consuming our tutorials, you will master the following:

• Setting Up an Issuing CA: Learn how to establish an Issuing Certificate Authority (CA) to facilitate the provisioning of IDevIDs.
• Configuring Certificate Profiles: Set up custom certificate profiles and end-entity profiles tailored for IDevIDs.
• Practical Testing: Put your setup to the test and issue your first certificate using a test client.

By following our tutorials and guides, you will be well-equipped to navigate the intricacies of IEEE 802.1 AR, EJBCA integration, and certificate issuance. As digital identity management advances, these skills become crucial for establishing a secure ecosystem from device creation to retirement.