Cipher Compliance Strategies for Updating SSH Cryptographic Standards: Common Problems &Solution

Abstract

This paper examines the critical issue of cipher expiration and compliance within secure shell (SSH)
communications. As governments worldwide mandate the use of approved cryptographic standards,
organizations must deal with the complexities of updating SSH ciphers and public keys to maintain secure
connections to customer servers. The study identifies the prevalence of commonly used ciphers, the impact of
cipher expiration on operational security, and the challenges organizations face in transitioning to higher-
standard or latest ciphers. It proposes a comprehensive solution for updating cryptographic protocols in SSH
to ensure continued compliance, security, and operational integrity.