Techniques for dynamically supporting different authentication algorithms

Abstract

Disclosed herein are different techniques for enabling a mobile device to dynamically support different authentication algorithms. A first technique involves configuring an eUICC included in the mobile device to implement various authentication algorithms that are utilized by MNOs (e.g., MNOs with which the mobile device can interact). Specifically, this technique involves the eUICC storing executable code for each of the various authentication algorithms. According to this technique, the eUICC is configured to manage at least one eSIM, where the eSIM includes (i) an identifier that corresponds to one of the various authentication algorithms implemented by the eUICC, and (ii) authentication parameters that are compatible with the authentication algorithm. A second technique involves configuring the eUICC to interface with an eSIM to extract (i) executable code for an authentication algorithm used by an MNO that corresponds to the eSIM, and (ii) authentication parameters that are compatible with the authentication algorithm.

Description

technical field [0001] The embodiments illustrate techniques for enabling mobile devices to dynamically support different authentication algorithms when authenticating with a Mobile Network Operator (MNO). Background technique [0002] Most mobile devices are configured to operate with a removable universal integrated circuit card (UICC) that enables the mobile device to access services provided by the MNO. Typically, the UICC takes the form of a small removable card, commonly referred to as a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card, that is configured to be inserted into a UICC receiving bay included in the mobile device. In the current embodiment, the UICC corresponds to a specific MNO and includes at least a microprocessor and a read-only memory (ROM) that stores (i) an MNO profile, and (ii) is configured to The code of the operating system (OS) that executes on the microprocessor. When the OS is activated, the OS connects to the MNO (eg, via a baseband component included...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

A drawback of this design is that the flexibility of the authentication algorithm is severely limited because the content stored on the SIM card is not designed to be modified after manufacture

Therefore, the adoption of new authentication algorithms by MNOs would require widespread distribution of replacement SIM cards designed to take advantage of the new authentication algorithms, which is largely unrealistic

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