A Java Beans Framework for Cryptographic Protocols

In this chapter, we present a Java Beans compatible framework well suited for the implementation of telecommunications protocols in general and eryptographic protocols in particular. Our framework is based on experience gained in building several earlier frameworks, including CVOPS, OVOPS, and Conduits+. We have enhanced the structure of the framework, creating a more patterned way of building protocols. In particular, we have added new structural components and features that allow protocols to be built piece-wise, combining smaller protocol blocks into larger ones. Furthermore, these resulting protocols can be safely downloaded through the Internet and run on virtually any workstation equipped with a Java capable browser. The framework has been implemented and tested in practice with a variety of cryptographic protocols. The framework is relatively independent of the actual cryptosystems used and relics on the Java 1.1 public key security API. Future work will include Java 1.2 support, and utilization of a graphical Beans editor to further case the work of the protocol composer.