Oracle to Launch Zero Trust Packet Routing Platform, Advancing New Open Standard for Data and Network Security
On November 7, Oracle announced the open-sourcing of Jipher, a Java Cryptography Architecture (JCA) provider designed to enhance both security and performance. Jipher, which has been integral to Oracle’s cloud platform, is now available as open-source software through the OpenJDK, supporting Project Panama-based Java applications. This move is set to benefit developers working with Java by providing them with a robust, high-performance cryptographic solution.
Jipher was developed specifically to meet Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 140 requirements, which are crucial for ensuring that cryptographic modules meet stringent security standards. According to Oracle, Jipher has significantly improved performance within the Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), demonstrating its capability to handle demanding cryptographic tasks efficiently. By open-sourcing Jipher, Oracle aims to extend these performance benefits to a wider audience, particularly those working with Java applications that rely on Project Panama for bridging JVM and native code.
The Jipher provider supports a range of FIPS-approved algorithms, including the OpenSSL 3.0 FIPS module. This positions it as a competitive alternative to other cryptographic providers like Bouncy Castle or the default JDK providers. Jipher encompasses a comprehensive suite of JCA features, including support for digital signatures, message digests, certificates and certificate validation, encryption (both symmetric and asymmetric block/stream ciphers), key generation and management, and secure random number generation. These features make it a versatile tool for implementing robust cryptographic functions in Java applications.
In addition to the Jipher release, Oracle also unveiled plans for the Oracle Zero Trust Packet Routing Platform, which aligns with the company’s broader efforts to advance data and network security. Announced on the same day as Jipher, this platform represents a new initiative to develop an open standard for data security in distributed IT environments. By fostering collaboration with various organizations across industries, Oracle aims to create a standard that enhances data protection and aligns with zero trust security principles.
The Oracle Zero Trust Packet Routing Platform will focus on improving the security of data transmission across networks by adopting a zero trust model. This approach assumes that threats could be internal or external and requires continuous verification of all entities accessing network resources. The platform will be developed with input from industry stakeholders to ensure that it meets the diverse security needs of modern IT environments.
Together, the release of Jipher and the forthcoming Oracle Zero Trust Packet Routing Platform highlight Oracle’s commitment to advancing both cryptographic and network security technologies. By open-sourcing Jipher, Oracle provides developers with a powerful tool for secure Java development, while the Zero Trust Packet Routing Platform aims to set a new standard for protecting data in an increasingly complex digital landscape.