DNS security is essential in ensuring a safe and trustworthy online experience for users navigating and locating websites. UltraDNS has recently introduced multi-signer Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC), which is a significant step towards enhancing the security framework of DNS. This advanced capability brings unparalleled resilience and flexibility in DNS management practices.
With multi-signer DNSSEC, multiple independent DNS operators can sign a single domain simultaneously, strengthening the robustness of the DNSSEC chain of trust. This approach addresses the complex operational and security challenges faced by organizations operating in distributed, multi-vendor DNS environments, which prevent these organizations from rolling out DNSSEC. By integrating multi-signer DNSSEC into UltraDNS, Vercara has shown its continued commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving security needs of the digital age.
Tracing the origins of multi-signer DNSSEC.
The DNS system was built on a trust model where every component of the system trusts the others to perform without compromise. Because of this, DNS is inherently vulnerable to cyberattacks where malicious actors manipulate DNS queries to redirect users to fraudulent sites. To counteract these threats, DNSSEC was developed, adding a layer of security by enabling DNS responses to be signed and verified to ensure that users get a legitimate answer for the domain that they are querying.
Multi-signer DNSSEC was built to extend this capability to operators that have more than one authoritative DNS provider. UltraDNS’s implementation of multi-signer DNSSEC was inspired by several Request for Comments (RFC) documents, notably RFC 8901, which advocates for enhanced DNS security through multi-signer models. This approach allows DNS records to be authenticated across multiple DNS providers, ensuring users reach their intended online destinations safely and securely.
Implementing multi-signer DNSSEC.
UltraDNS’s adoption of DNSSEC with multi-signer capability uses “online” or “on-the-fly” signing methods where DNS responses are signed in real time with ECDSA (algorithm 13). This dynamic approach permits incorporating external DNSKEY details, enhancing operational flexibility without compromising security.
UltraDNS’s implementation strategy adheres to the methodologies described in RFC 8901, model 2. This model mandates that each signer—whether part of UltraDNS or an external entity—maintains its own unique Key Signing Key (KSK) and Zone Signing Key (ZSK). This strengthens the DNSSEC architecture by implementing a decentralized key management system, improving the resilience and integrity of the domain name authentication process. By having each signer maintain its own unique Key Signing Key (KSK) and Zone Signing Key (ZSK), the risk is distributed among multiple entities. This decentralization means that a compromise of one signer’s keys does not compromise the entire system.
Furthermore, UltraDNS’s strategy of assigning unique KSK and ZSK to each zone empowers domain owners with unparalleled control over their DNS security by facilitating bespoke key management strategies that align with individual security policies.
Refined key management and automated rollovers.
Key management is a cornerstone of DNSSEC’s security framework. UltraDNS streamlines this process by automating ZSK rollovers at prescribed intervals, as recommended in RFC 6781, and facilitating on-demand KSK rollovers through a double-signature scheme. This automation significantly reduces the administrative overhead associated with manual key rollovers, ensuring continuous security without disrupting domain operations.
Enhancing coordination with real-time notifications.
UltraDNS sets itself apart with an innovative signaling mechanism. Utilizing webhook push notifications along with the strategic dissemination of CDS and CDNSKEY records (Delegation Signer), UltraDNS ensures stakeholders are promptly informed of DNSSEC configuration changes. This real-time communication stream is vital for preserving the DNSSEC chain of trust, especially in multi-signer scenarios where coordination between multiple entities is essential.
Key use cases.
UltraDNS’s multi-signer DNSSEC functionality addresses two pivotal DNS management challenges:
- Multi-provider DNS management: It allows for a seamless and secure management framework across multiple DNS providers, ensuring that DNSSEC integrity is maintained even in complex multi-provider setups.
- Transitioning signing authorities: UltraDNS facilitates a smooth transition between DNS signing providers, preserving the DNSSEC chain of trust and eliminating the need for temporary DNSSEC deactivation during provider changes.
Configuring enhanced DNSSEC.
Adopting UltraDNS’s multi-signer DNSSEC involves ensuring that zones are correctly signed and that DNSKEY information for both UltraDNS and any external signers is accurately included. This setup is essential for maintaining DNS validation and establishing trust across various operational domains. UltraDNS facilitates this process through its API, simplifying the management of external signer DNSKEY information and ensuring a streamlined configuration process.
UltraDNS multi-signer DNSSEC offers control, operational flexibility, and comprehensive security measures to address the immediate challenges of DNS management and anticipate the evolving security needs of the digital landscape. It also provides domain owners with the necessary tools and capabilities to navigate the complexities of modern DNS management.
For more information on UltraDNS, DNSSEC, and how our solutions can help you secure your online experience, check out Vercara’s content library.
