A network distribution method and device

Abstract

This application provides a network configuration method and apparatus. After discovering an electronic device in a network configuration state, the wireless access device sends the name of its wireless local area network (WLAN) to the electronic device via ultra-low power and / or sends a message responding to the network configuration request to the electronic device via ultra-low power. Upon receiving the WLAN name and configuration request message from the wireless access device, the electronic device negotiates the WLAN password with the wireless access device and connects to the wireless access device based on the WLAN name and password. This method allows the electronic device to automatically establish a WLAN connection simply by bringing it close enough to the wireless access device, simplifying user operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a distribution network method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of the internet, people's demand for wireless networks is increasing, often requiring the configuration of electronic devices to enable them to connect to wireless networks and access the internet. For example, when a new router is connected to an already configured router, users need to observe the flashing of the router's indicator lights to press the configuration button in time; or, users need to perform a series of configuration operations through the display interface of the electronic device with a screen to configure the new router, a cumbersome process. Another example is when a mobile phone connects to a wireless network for the first time; users need to correctly select the wireless network from the list based on its name and then manually enter the password. This entire process is complex, error-prone, and results in a poor user experience. Currently, there is no simpler method for configuring electronic devices. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a network configuration method and apparatus that enables electronic devices to automatically establish a wireless local area network connection with wireless access devices simply by bringing the electronic devices close enough (e.g., within a first distance). This simplifies user operation.

[0004] In a first aspect, this application provides a network distribution method, applied to a system including electronic devices and wireless access devices. The method includes: an electronic device sending a probe request frame; a wireless access device receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending a probe response frame to the electronic device via a first antenna at a first power; after receiving the probe response frame, the electronic device establishing a wireless local area network (WLAN) connection with the wireless access device; and after the WLAN connection is established between the electronic device and the wireless access device, the wireless access device sending a data frame to the electronic device via a second antenna at a second power; wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are the same antenna or two antennas, and the first power is less than the second power.

[0005] Among them, electronic devices can be smart home devices, which can be any of the following: smart lights, smart ovens, smart fans, smart air conditioners, smart TVs, smart screens, smart bracelets, smart watches, smart speakers, smart refrigerators, smart doors and windows, smart cars, smart monitors, smart robots, smart cameras, etc.

[0006] Electronic devices can be terminal devices, which can be any of the following: mobile phones, tablets, smart screens, desktop computers, laptops, handheld computers, notebook computers, ultra-mobile personal computers (UMPCs), and netbooks.

[0007] Electronic devices can also be wireless access devices, such as routers.

[0008] The first aspect of the method achieves two key benefits. First, it eliminates the need for manual intervention by the user in establishing a wireless LAN connection with the wireless access device. Users simply need to bring their electronic devices close enough (e.g., within a first distance) to automatically establish a wireless LAN connection. Second, the wireless access device only transmits messages to the connected electronic devices at extremely low power (i.e., the first power) during the network configuration process. Simultaneously, the wireless access device can transmit messages to other connected electronic devices at normal power (i.e., the second power). This ensures that the normal operations of other connected electronic devices are not affected.

[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the coverage area of ​​the signal transmitted by the wireless access device through the first antenna at a first power is smaller than the coverage area of ​​the signal transmitted by the wireless access device through the second antenna at a second power. The wireless access device only transmits probe response frames at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power) during network configuration. Thus, the probe response frames transmitted by the wireless access device at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power) can only be received when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is sufficiently close.

[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than a first distance, the electronic device is in a position where it can receive probe response frames and data frames; when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is greater than the first distance, the electronic device is in a position where it cannot receive probe response frames but can receive data frames. Thus, during the network configuration process, only when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is sufficiently close (e.g., within the first distance) can the electronic device be considered to have the intention to join the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located, and only then can the electronic device complete the network configuration process with the wireless access device.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than a first distance, and the electronic device remains stationary, the power of the probe response frame received by the electronic device is lower than the power of the data frame received by the electronic device. Thus, during network configuration, the wireless access device transmits probe response frames at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power), ensuring that only electronic devices close to the wireless access device can receive the probe response frames. After network configuration is complete, and assuming the electronic device remains stationary, at the same location, the electronic device receives data frames transmitted by the wireless access device at normal power (i.e., the second power). The power of the probe response frame received by the electronic device is lower than the power of the received data frame.

[0012] Optionally, when the wireless access device transmits a probe response frame at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power), the power of the power supply signal of the radio frequency link in the wireless access device is the third power. When the wireless access device transmits a data frame at normal power (i.e., the second power), the power of the power supply signal of the radio frequency link in the wireless access device is the fourth power. The third power is less than the fourth power.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the probe request frame includes a first probe request frame and a second probe request frame, and the probe response frame includes a first probe response frame and a second probe response frame. The electronic device sending the probe request frame includes: the electronic device sending the first probe request frame; the wireless access device receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending the probe response frame to the electronic device via a first antenna at a first power, including: the wireless access device receiving and responding to the first probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending the first probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power; the electronic device sending the probe request frame further includes: the electronic device receiving and responding to the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device, and sending the second probe request frame to the wireless access device; the wireless access device receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending the probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power, further including: the wireless access device receiving and responding to the second probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending the second probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power.

[0014] In other words, during the network distribution process, the wireless access device transmits the first probe response frame and the second response frame at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power). During the network distribution process, the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device must be sufficiently close (e.g., within the first distance) for the electronic device to receive the first probe response frame and the second response frame.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the probe request frame includes a first probe request frame, the probe response frame includes a first probe response frame, and the electronic device sends the probe request frame, including: the electronic device sending the first probe request frame; the wireless access device receives and responds to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sends the probe response frame to the electronic device through a first antenna at a first power, including: the wireless access device receives and responds to the first probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sends the first probe response frame to the electronic device through a first antenna at a first power; before the electronic device and the wireless access device establish a wireless local area network connection, the method further includes: the electronic device receives and responds to the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device, and sends a second probe request frame to the wireless access device; the wireless access device receives and responds to the second probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sends the second probe response frame to the electronic device through a second antenna at a second power.

[0016] In other words, the wireless access device only transmits the first probe response frame at ultra-low power (e.g., first power). Thus, during network configuration with the wireless access device, after receiving the first probe response frame transmitted at first power, the electronic device no longer needs to remain close to the wireless access device, reducing the time the electronic device must remain close to the main router during network configuration.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the probe request frame includes a second probe request frame, the probe response frame includes a second probe response frame, and before the electronic device sends the probe request frame, the method further includes: the electronic device sending a first probe request frame; the wireless access device receiving and responding to the first probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending a first probe response frame to the electronic device via a second antenna at a second power; the electronic device sending the probe request frame includes: the electronic device receiving and responding to the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device, and sending a second probe request frame to the wireless access device; the wireless access device receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending a probe response frame to the electronic device via a first antenna at a first power, includes: the wireless access device receiving and responding to the second probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending a second probe response frame to the electronic device via a first antenna at a first power.

[0018] In other words, the wireless access device only transmits the second probe response frame at ultra-low power (e.g., the first power). This way, electronic devices do not need to be near the wireless access device during the time they receive the second probe response frame, reducing the time that electronic devices must be near the wireless access device.

[0019] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, before the wireless access device sends a probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power, the method further includes: the wireless access device's network configuration indicator flashing; after the electronic device establishes a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, the method further includes: the wireless access device's network configuration indicator remaining constantly lit. Thus, the flashing of the wireless access device's network configuration indicator can serve as a notification to the user that the wireless access device has detected a device in a network configuration pending state. The constantly lit network configuration indicator can serve as a notification to the user that the device in the network configuration pending state has successfully configured with the wireless access device.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, after the electronic device receives the probe response frame but before the electronic device establishes a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, the method further includes: the wireless access device and the electronic device negotiating and determining a first key; the wireless access device encrypting the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located based on the first key to obtain an encrypted password, and sending the encrypted password to the electronic device; after receiving the encrypted password, the electronic device decrypting the encrypted password based on the first key to obtain the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the wireless access device and the electronic device determine a first key through negotiation, which may include the following steps: before the wireless access device and the electronic device determine the first key through negotiation, a first random number is generated; the wireless access device generates a key one based on the first random number; the wireless access device sends the first random number to the electronic device; after receiving the first random number, the electronic device generates a key two based on the first random number; the electronic device is further configured to send the key two to the wireless access device; after determining that the key one and the key two are the same, the wireless access device uses the key one as the first key.

[0022] In this way, the electronic device and the wireless access device transmit the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located through the first key, which ensures the security of information transmission between the electronic device and the wireless access device and avoids the leakage of the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located.

[0023] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the electronic device establishes a wireless local area network (WLAN) connection with the wireless access device, including: the electronic device establishing a WLAN connection with the wireless access device based on the password of the WLAN where the wireless access device is located.

[0024] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, when the electronic device is a router, after the electronic device establishes a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, the method further includes: negotiating and synchronizing parameter information with the wireless access device; wherein the parameter information includes one or more of the following: the frequency band of the wireless access device, the channel type of the wireless access device, and the data transmission rate of the wireless access device.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the electronic device and the wireless access device negotiate and synchronize parameter information, which may include the following steps: After establishing a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, the electronic device sends a parameter negotiation request to the wireless access device; in response to the parameter negotiation request, the wireless access device sends a first set of parameter types to the electronic device; the electronic device is further configured to receive the first set of parameter types and determine a third set of parameter types based on the first set of parameter types and a second set of parameter types; wherein the third set of parameter types includes one or more parameters; the electronic device sends the identifiers of one or more parameters in the third set of parameter types to the wireless access device; the wireless access device receives the identifiers of one or more parameters in the third set of parameter types. The wireless access device identifies one or more parameters based on the identifiers of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set; the wireless access device transmits the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set to the electronic device; the electronic device is further configured to receive the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set; the electronic device is further configured to determine a common value between the electronic device and the wireless access device in the third parameter type set based on the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set and the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set. The electronic device sets the common value between the electronic device and the wireless access device in the third parameter type set as the value of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set of the electronic device.

[0026] This ensures that after the electronic device establishes a network connection with the wireless access device, the parameter information of the electronic device is consistent with that of the wireless access device, so that the electronic device can form a mesh network with the wireless access device.

[0027] Optionally, when the electronic device is a smart home device or a terminal device, it does not need to synchronize parameter information with the wireless access device. This is because the electronic device does not need to form a mesh network with the wireless access device. That is, the electronic device is always in STA mode, only needing to access the wireless local area network of the wireless access device, and does not need to be in AP mode as an access point for other devices. Therefore, the electronic device does not need to complete the parameter negotiation and synchronization process with the wireless access device.

[0028] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first probe request frame includes a network distribution information cell of the electronic device;

[0029] The first probe response frame includes the basic service set identifier of the wireless access device;

[0030] The second probe request frame includes the basic service set identifier of the wireless access device.

[0031] The second probe response frame includes a cryptographic transmission mode negotiation capability identifier and the media access control bit address of the electronic device.

[0032] The first probe request frame is used by other electronic devices in the vicinity of the electronic device to detect the electronic device in the pending network configuration state. The first probe request frame can be sent by the electronic device in a broadcast manner.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the electronic device periodically sends a first probe request frame. The electronic device will only stop sending the first probe request frame after it receives a first probe response frame.

[0034] The aforementioned wireless access device's network configuration indicator light will only flash when the wireless access device receives the first probe request frame.

[0035] In one possible implementation, when the electronic device is a terminal device, the electronic device displays a first user interface before sending the first probe request frame. The first user interface includes a first icon. The electronic device receives a second operation from the user on the first icon in the first user interface. In response to the second operation, the electronic device sends the first probe request frame.

[0036] In one possible implementation, when the electronic device is a wireless access device or a smart home device, the electronic device receives a first operation from the user on a first button on the electronic device before sending the first probe request frame; in response to the first operation, the electronic device sends the first probe request frame to the wireless access device.

[0037] The first probe response frame is used to inform the electronic device that the wireless access device has detected an electronic device in a network configuration state. The first probe response frame can be sent by the wireless access device in unicast form.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the wireless access device periodically sends a first probe response frame. Each time the wireless access device receives a first probe request frame, it sends a first probe response frame.

[0039] The second probe request frame is used by an electronic device to send a connection establishment request to a wireless access device. The second probe request frame can be sent by the electronic device in unicast format.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the electronic device periodically sends second probe request frames. The electronic device will only stop sending second probe request frames once it receives a second probe response frame.

[0041] The second probe response frame is used to inform the electronic device that the wireless access device agrees to establish a connection with the electronic device. The second probe response frame can be sent by the wireless access device in the form of unicast.

[0042] In one possible implementation, if the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device exceeds a first distance, the electronic device will not receive the second probe response frame transmitted by the wireless access device at excessive power. The wireless access device can then receive and respond to the first user operation (e.g., pressing a configuration button) and transmit the second probe response frame at normal power. Thus, even if the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device exceeds the first distance, the electronic device can still receive the second probe response frame transmitted by the wireless access device at normal power (i.e., the second power).

[0043] Secondly, this application provides a network distribution method, which is applied to an electronic device. The method includes: sending a probe request frame; receiving a probe response frame sent by a wireless access device through a first antenna at a first power; establishing a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device after receiving the probe response frame; and receiving a data frame sent by the wireless access device through a second antenna at a second power after establishing a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device; wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are the same antenna or two antennas, and the first power is less than the second power.

[0044] Among them, electronic devices can be smart home devices, which can be any of the following: smart lights, smart ovens, smart fans, smart air conditioners, smart TVs, smart screens, smart bracelets, smart watches, smart speakers, smart refrigerators, smart doors and windows, smart cars, smart monitors, smart robots, smart cameras, etc.

[0045] Electronic devices can be terminal devices, which can be any of the following: mobile phones, tablets, smart screens, desktop computers, laptops, handheld computers, notebook computers, ultra-mobile personal computers (UMPCs), and netbooks;

[0046] Electronic devices can also be wireless access devices, such as routers.

[0047] The second approach achieves two key benefits. First, it eliminates the need for manual intervention from the user on the wireless access device or manual input of the main router password on the electronic device. The user simply needs to bring the electronic device close enough (e.g., within a first distance) for the device to automatically establish a wireless LAN connection. Second, the wireless access device only transmits messages to the connected electronic devices at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power) during the network configuration process. Simultaneously, the wireless access device can transmit messages at normal power (i.e., the second power) to other connected electronic devices. This ensures that the normal operations of other connected electronic devices are not affected.

[0048] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the coverage area of ​​the signal transmitted by the wireless access device through the first antenna at a first power is smaller than the coverage area of ​​the signal transmitted by the wireless access device through the second antenna at a second power. The wireless access device only transmits probe response frames at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power) during network configuration. Thus, the probe response frames transmitted by the wireless access device at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power) can only be received when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is sufficiently close.

[0049] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the electronic device is positioned to receive probe response frames and data frames when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than the first distance.

[0050] When the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is greater than a first distance, the device is in a position where it cannot receive probe response frames but can receive data frames. Thus, during the network configuration process, only when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is sufficiently close (e.g., within the first distance) can the electronic device be considered to have the intention to join the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located, and only then can the electronic device complete the network configuration process with the wireless access device.

[0051] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than a first distance, and the electronic device remains stationary, the power of the probe response frame received by the electronic device is lower than the power of the data frame received by the electronic device. Thus, during network configuration, the wireless access device transmits probe response frames at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power), ensuring that only electronic devices close to the wireless access device can receive the probe response frames. After network configuration is complete, and assuming the electronic device remains stationary, at the same location, the electronic device receives data frames transmitted by the wireless access device at normal power (i.e., the second power). The power of the probe response frame received by the electronic device is lower than the power of the received data frame.

[0052] Optionally, when the wireless access device transmits a probe response frame at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power), the power of the power supply signal of the radio frequency link in the wireless access device is the third power. When the wireless access device transmits a data frame at normal power (i.e., the second power), the power of the power supply signal of the radio frequency link in the wireless access device is the fourth power. The third power is less than the fourth power.

[0053] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the probe request frame includes a first probe request frame and a second probe request frame, and the probe response frame includes a first probe response frame and a second probe response frame.

[0054] Sending a probe request frame includes: sending a first probe request frame; receiving a probe response frame sent by a wireless access device through a first antenna at a first power includes: receiving the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device through the first antenna at a first power; sending a probe request frame further includes: in response to the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device, sending a second probe request frame to the wireless access device; receiving a probe response frame sent by the wireless access device through the first antenna at a first power further includes: receiving the second probe response frame sent by the wireless access device through the first antenna at a first power.

[0055] In other words, during the network distribution process, the wireless access device transmits the first probe response frame and the second response frame at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power). During the network distribution process, the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device must be sufficiently close (e.g., within the first distance) for the electronic device to receive the first probe response frame and the second response frame.

[0056] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the probe request frame includes a first probe request frame, the probe response frame includes a first probe response frame, and sending the probe request frame includes: sending the first probe request frame; receiving the probe response frame sent by the wireless access device through the first antenna at a first power includes: receiving the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device through the first antenna at a first power; before establishing a wireless LAN connection with the wireless access device, the method further includes: in response to the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device, sending a second probe request frame to the wireless access device; and receiving the second probe response frame sent by the wireless access device through a second antenna at a second power.

[0057] In other words, the wireless access device only transmits the first probe response frame at ultra-low power (e.g., first power). Thus, during network configuration with the wireless access device, after receiving the first probe response frame transmitted at first power, the electronic device no longer needs to remain close to the wireless access device, reducing the time the electronic device must remain close to the main router during network configuration.

[0058] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the probe request frame includes a second probe request frame, the probe response frame includes a second probe response frame, and before sending the probe request frame, the method further includes: sending a first probe request frame; receiving a first probe response frame transmitted by the wireless access device via a second antenna at a second power; sending the probe request frame includes: in response to the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device, sending a second probe request frame to the wireless access device; receiving the probe response frame transmitted by the wireless access device via a first antenna at a first power includes: receiving the second probe response frame transmitted by the wireless access device via the first antenna at a first power.

[0059] In other words, the wireless access device only transmits the second probe response frame at ultra-low power (e.g., the first power). This way, electronic devices do not need to be near the wireless access device during the time they receive the second probe response frame, reducing the time that electronic devices must be near the wireless access device.

[0060] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, after receiving the probe response frame and before establishing a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, the method further includes: negotiating and determining a first key with the wireless access device; and after receiving the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located, which is encrypted based on the first key, from the wireless access device, decrypting the encrypted password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located based on the first key to obtain the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located.

[0061] In one possible implementation, the wireless access device and the electronic device determine a first key through negotiation, which may include the following steps: before the wireless access device and the electronic device determine the first key through negotiation, a first random number is generated; the wireless access device generates a key one based on the first random number; the wireless access device sends the first random number to the electronic device; after receiving the first random number, the electronic device generates a key two based on the first random number; the electronic device is further configured to send the key two to the wireless access device; after determining that the key one and the key two are the same, the wireless access device uses the key one as the first key.

[0062] In this way, the electronic device and the wireless access device transmit the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located through the first key, which ensures the security of information transmission between the electronic device and the wireless access device and avoids the leakage of the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located.

[0063] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, establishing a wireless local area network (WLAN) connection with a wireless access device includes: establishing a WLAN connection with the wireless access device based on the password of the WLAN where the wireless access device is located.

[0064] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, when the electronic device is a router, after the electronic device establishes a wireless LAN connection with the wireless access device, the method further includes: negotiating and synchronizing parameter information with the wireless access device; wherein the parameter information includes one or more of the following: the frequency band of the wireless access device, the channel type of the wireless access device, and the data transmission rate of the wireless access device.

[0065] In one possible implementation, the electronic device and the wireless access device negotiate and synchronize parameter information, which may include the following steps: After establishing a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, the electronic device sends a parameter negotiation request to the wireless access device; in response to the parameter negotiation request, the wireless access device sends a first set of parameter types to the electronic device; the electronic device is further configured to receive the first set of parameter types and determine a third set of parameter types based on the first set of parameter types and a second set of parameter types; wherein the third set of parameter types includes one or more parameters; the electronic device sends the identifiers of one or more parameters in the third set of parameter types to the wireless access device; the wireless access device receives the identifiers of one or more parameters in the third set of parameter types. The wireless access device identifies one or more parameters based on the identifiers of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set; the wireless access device transmits the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set to the electronic device; the electronic device is further configured to receive the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set; the electronic device is further configured to determine a common value between the electronic device and the wireless access device in the third parameter type set based on the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set and the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set. The electronic device sets the common value between the electronic device and the wireless access device in the third parameter type set as the value of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set of the electronic device.

[0066] This ensures that after the electronic device establishes a network connection with the wireless access device, the parameter information of the electronic device is consistent with that of the wireless access device, so that the electronic device can form a mesh network with the wireless access device.

[0067] Optionally, when the electronic device is a smart home device or a terminal device, it does not need to synchronize parameter information with the wireless access device. This is because the electronic device does not need to form a mesh network with the wireless access device. That is, the electronic device is always in STA mode, only needing to access the wireless local area network of the wireless access device, and does not need to be in AP mode as an access point for other devices. Therefore, the electronic device does not need to complete the parameter negotiation and synchronization process with the wireless access device.

[0068] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the first probe request frame includes a network configuration cell of the electronic device; the first probe response frame includes a basic service set identifier of the wireless access device; the second probe request frame includes a basic service set identifier of the wireless access device; and the second probe response frame includes a cryptographic transmission mode negotiation capability identifier and a media access control bit address of the electronic device.

[0069] The first probe request frame is used by other electronic devices in the vicinity of the electronic device to detect the electronic device in the pending network configuration state. The first probe request frame can be sent by the electronic device in a broadcast manner.

[0070] In one possible implementation, the electronic device periodically sends a first probe request frame. The electronic device will only stop sending the first probe request frame after it receives a first probe response frame.

[0071] The aforementioned wireless access device's network configuration indicator light will only flash when the wireless access device receives the first probe request frame.

[0072] In one possible implementation, when the electronic device is a terminal device, the electronic device displays a first user interface before sending the first probe request frame. The first user interface includes a first icon. The electronic device receives a second operation from the user on the first icon in the first user interface. In response to the second operation, the electronic device sends the first probe request frame.

[0073] In one possible implementation, when the electronic device is a wireless access device or a smart home device, the electronic device receives a first operation by the user on a first button on the electronic device before sending a first probe request frame to the wireless access device; in response to the first operation, the electronic device sends a first probe request frame to the wireless access device.

[0074] The first probe response frame is used to inform the electronic device that the wireless access device has detected an electronic device in a network configuration state. The first probe response frame can be sent by the wireless access device in unicast form.

[0075] In one possible implementation, the wireless access device periodically sends a first probe response frame. Each time the wireless access device receives a first probe request frame, it sends a first probe response frame.

[0076] The second probe request frame is used by an electronic device to send a connection establishment request to a wireless access device. The second probe request frame can be sent by the electronic device in unicast format.

[0077] In one possible implementation, the electronic device periodically sends second probe request frames. The electronic device will only stop sending second probe request frames once it receives a second probe response frame.

[0078] The second probe response frame is used to inform the electronic device that the wireless access device agrees to establish a connection with the electronic device. The second probe response frame can be sent by the wireless access device in the form of unicast.

[0079] In one possible implementation, if the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device exceeds a first distance, the electronic device will not receive the second probe response frame transmitted by the wireless access device at excessive power. The wireless access device can then receive and respond to the first user operation (e.g., pressing a configuration button) and transmit the second probe response frame at normal power. Thus, even if the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device exceeds the first distance, the electronic device can still receive the second probe response frame transmitted by the wireless access device at normal power (i.e., the second power).

[0080] Thirdly, this application provides a network configuration method applied to a wireless access device. The method includes: receiving and responding to a probe request frame sent by an electronic device; sending a probe response frame to the electronic device at a first power via a first antenna; establishing a wireless local area network connection with the electronic device; and after establishing the wireless local area network connection with the electronic device, sending a data frame to the electronic device at a second power via a second antenna; wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are the same antenna or two antennas, and the first power is less than the second power.

[0081] Among them, electronic devices can be smart home devices, which can be any of the following: smart lights, smart ovens, smart fans, smart air conditioners, smart TVs, smart screens, smart bracelets, smart watches, smart speakers, smart refrigerators, smart doors and windows, smart cars, smart monitors, smart robots, smart cameras, etc.

[0082] Electronic devices can be terminal devices, which can be any of the following: mobile phones, tablets, smart screens, desktop computers, laptops, handheld computers, notebook computers, ultra-mobile personal computers (UMPCs), and netbooks;

[0083] Electronic devices can also be wireless access devices, such as routers.

[0084] The third approach achieves two key benefits. First, it eliminates the need for manual intervention from the user on the wireless access device or manual input of the main router password on the electronic device. The user simply needs to bring the electronic device close enough (e.g., within a first distance) for the device to automatically establish a wireless LAN connection, simplifying the process. Second, the wireless access device only transmits messages to the connected electronic devices at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power) during the network configuration process. Simultaneously, the wireless access device can transmit messages at normal power (i.e., the second power) to other connected electronic devices. This ensures that the normal operations of other connected electronic devices are not affected.

[0085] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the coverage area of ​​the signal transmitted by the first antenna at a first power is smaller than the coverage area of ​​the signal transmitted by the second antenna at a second power. Thus, the electronic device can only receive the probe response frame transmitted by the wireless access device at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power) if the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is sufficiently close.

[0086] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than a first distance, the electronic device is in a position where it can receive probe response frames and data frames; when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is greater than the first distance, the electronic device is in a position where it cannot receive probe response frames but can receive data frames. Thus, during the network configuration process, only when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is sufficiently close (e.g., within the first distance) can the electronic device be considered to have the intention to join the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located, and only then can the electronic device complete the network configuration process with the wireless access device.

[0087] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than a first distance, and the electronic device remains stationary, the power of the probe response frame received by the electronic device is lower than the power of the data frame received by the electronic device. Thus, during network configuration, the wireless access device transmits probe response frames at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power), ensuring that only electronic devices close to the wireless access device can receive the probe response frames. After network configuration is complete, and assuming the electronic device remains stationary, at the same location, the electronic device receives data frames transmitted by the wireless access device at normal power (i.e., the second power). The power of the probe response frame received by the electronic device is lower than the power of the received data frame.

[0088] Optionally, when the wireless access device transmits a probe response frame at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power), the power of the power supply signal of the radio frequency link in the wireless access device is the third power. When the wireless access device transmits a data frame at normal power (i.e., the second power), the power of the power supply signal of the radio frequency link in the wireless access device is the fourth power. The third power is less than the fourth power.

[0089] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the probe request frame includes a first probe request frame and a second probe request frame, and the probe response frame includes a first probe response frame and a second probe response frame. Receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device includes: receiving and responding to the first probe request frame sent by the electronic device; transmitting the probe response frame to the electronic device via a first antenna at a first power, including: transmitting the first probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power; receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device further includes: receiving and responding to the second probe request frame sent by the electronic device; transmitting the probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power, further including: transmitting the second probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power.

[0090] In other words, during the network distribution process, the wireless access device transmits the first probe response frame and the second response frame at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power). During the network distribution process, the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device must be sufficiently close (e.g., within the first distance) for the electronic device to receive the first probe response frame and the second response frame.

[0091] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the probe request frame includes a first probe request frame, the probe response frame includes a first probe response frame, and receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device includes: receiving and responding to the first probe request frame sent by the electronic device; transmitting the probe response frame to the electronic device at a first power via a first antenna includes: transmitting the first probe response frame to the electronic device at a first power via the first antenna; before establishing a wireless local area network connection with the electronic device, the method further includes: receiving and responding to a second probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and transmitting the second probe response frame to the electronic device at a second power via a second antenna.

[0092] In other words, the wireless access device only transmits the first probe response frame at ultra-low power (e.g., first power). Thus, during network configuration with the wireless access device, after receiving the first probe response frame transmitted at first power, the electronic device no longer needs to remain close to the wireless access device, reducing the time the electronic device must remain close to the main router during network configuration.

[0093] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the probe request frame includes a second probe request frame, the probe response frame includes a second probe response frame, and before receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device, the method further includes: receiving and responding to the first probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and transmitting the first probe response frame to the electronic device via a first antenna at a first power; receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device includes: receiving and responding to the second probe request frame sent by the electronic device; transmitting the probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power includes: transmitting the second probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power.

[0094] In other words, the wireless access device only transmits the second probe response frame at ultra-low power (e.g., the first power). This way, electronic devices do not need to be near the wireless access device during the time they receive the second probe response frame, reducing the time that electronic devices must be near the wireless access device.

[0095] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, before sending a probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power, the method further includes: flashing the network configuration indicator light on the wireless access device; after establishing a wireless LAN connection with the electronic device, the method further includes: keeping the network configuration indicator light on the wireless access device constantly lit. Thus, the flashing of the network configuration indicator light on the wireless access device can serve as a notification to the user that the wireless access device has detected a device in a network configuration pending state. The constantly lit network configuration indicator light on the wireless access device can serve as a notification to the user that the device in the network configuration pending state has successfully configured with the wireless access device.

[0096] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, after sending a probe response frame to the electronic device at a first power via the first antenna, and before establishing a wireless local area network connection with the electronic device, the method further includes: negotiating and determining a first key with the electronic device; encrypting the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located based on the first key to obtain an encrypted password, and sending the encrypted password to the electronic device; wherein the encrypted password is used by the electronic device to decrypt the encrypted password based on the first key to obtain the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located.

[0097] In one possible implementation, the wireless access device and the electronic device determine a first key through negotiation, which may include the following steps: before the wireless access device and the electronic device determine the first key through negotiation, a first random number is generated; the wireless access device generates a key one based on the first random number; the wireless access device sends the first random number to the electronic device; after receiving the first random number, the electronic device generates a key two based on the first random number; the electronic device is further configured to send the key two to the wireless access device; after determining that the key one and the key two are the same, the wireless access device uses the key one as the first key.

[0098] In this way, the electronic device and the wireless access device transmit the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located through the first key, which ensures the security of information transmission between the electronic device and the wireless access device and avoids the leakage of the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located.

[0099] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, when the device type of the electronic device is a router, after establishing a wireless local area network connection with the electronic device, the method further includes: negotiating and synchronizing parameter information with the electronic device; wherein the parameter information includes one or more of the following: the frequency band of the wireless access device, the channel type of the wireless access device, and the data transmission rate of the wireless access device.

[0100] In one possible implementation, the electronic device and the wireless access device negotiate and synchronize parameter information, which may include the following steps: After establishing a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, the electronic device sends a parameter negotiation request to the wireless access device; in response to the parameter negotiation request, the wireless access device sends a first set of parameter types to the electronic device; the electronic device is further configured to receive the first set of parameter types and determine a third set of parameter types based on the first set of parameter types and a second set of parameter types; wherein the third set of parameter types includes one or more parameters; the electronic device sends the identifiers of one or more parameters in the third set of parameter types to the wireless access device; the wireless access device receives the identifiers of one or more parameters in the third set of parameter types. The wireless access device identifies one or more parameters based on the identifiers of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set; the wireless access device transmits the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set to the electronic device; the electronic device is further configured to receive the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set; the electronic device is further configured to determine a common value between the electronic device and the wireless access device in the third parameter type set based on the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set and the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set. The electronic device sets the common value between the electronic device and the wireless access device in the third parameter type set as the value of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set of the electronic device.

[0101] This ensures that after the electronic device establishes a network connection with the wireless access device, the parameter information of the electronic device is consistent with that of the wireless access device, so that the electronic device can form a mesh network with the wireless access device.

[0102] Optionally, when the electronic device is a smart home device or a terminal device, it does not need to synchronize parameter information with the wireless access device. This is because the electronic device does not need to form a mesh network with the wireless access device. That is, the electronic device is always in STA mode, only needing to access the wireless local area network of the wireless access device, and does not need to be in AP mode as an access point for other devices. Therefore, the electronic device does not need to complete the parameter negotiation and synchronization process with the wireless access device.

[0103] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the first probe request frame includes the network configuration information element of the electronic device; the first probe response frame includes the basic service set identifier of the wireless access device; the second probe request frame includes the basic service set identifier of the wireless access device; and the second probe response frame includes the cryptographic transmission mode negotiation capability identifier and the media access control bit address of the electronic device.

[0104] The first probe request frame is used by other electronic devices in the vicinity of the electronic device to detect the electronic device in the pending network configuration state. The first probe request frame can be sent by the electronic device in a broadcast manner.

[0105] In one possible implementation, the electronic device periodically sends a first probe request frame. The electronic device will only stop sending the first probe request frame after it receives a first probe response frame.

[0106] The aforementioned wireless access device's network configuration indicator light will only flash when the wireless access device receives the first probe request frame.

[0107] In one possible implementation, when the electronic device is a terminal device, the electronic device displays a first user interface before sending the first probe request frame. The first user interface includes a first icon. The electronic device receives a second operation from the user on the first icon in the first user interface. In response to the second operation, the electronic device sends the first probe request frame.

[0108] In one possible implementation, when the electronic device is a wireless access device or a smart home device, the electronic device receives a first operation by the user on a first button on the electronic device before sending a first probe request frame to the wireless access device; in response to the first operation, the electronic device sends a first probe request frame to the wireless access device.

[0109] The first probe response frame is used to inform the electronic device that the wireless access device has detected an electronic device in a network configuration state. The first probe response frame can be sent by the wireless access device in unicast form.

[0110] In one possible implementation, the wireless access device periodically sends a first probe response frame. Each time the wireless access device receives a first probe request frame, it sends a first probe response frame.

[0111] The second probe request frame is used by an electronic device to send a connection establishment request to a wireless access device. The second probe request frame can be sent by the electronic device in unicast format.

[0112] In one possible implementation, the electronic device periodically sends second probe request frames. The electronic device will only stop sending second probe request frames once it receives a second probe response frame.

[0113] The second probe response frame is used to inform the electronic device that the wireless access device agrees to establish a connection with the electronic device. The second probe response frame can be sent by the wireless access device in the form of unicast.

[0114] In one possible implementation, if the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device exceeds a first distance, the electronic device will not receive the second probe response frame transmitted by the wireless access device at excessive power. The wireless access device can then receive and respond to the first user operation (e.g., pressing a configuration button) and transmit the second probe response frame at normal power. Thus, even if the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device exceeds the first distance, the electronic device can still receive the second probe response frame transmitted by the wireless access device at normal power (i.e., the second power).

[0115] Fourthly, this application provides an electronic device, which includes: one or more processors and one or more memories; the one or more memories are coupled to the one or more processors, and the one or more memories are used to store computer program code, the computer program code including computer instructions, and the one or more processors call the computer instructions to cause the electronic device to perform the method steps performed by the electronic device in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0116] Fifthly, this application provides a wireless access device, which includes: one or more processors and one or more memories; the one or more memories are coupled to the one or more processors, and the one or more memories are used to store computer program code, the computer program code including computer instructions, and the one or more processors call the computer instructions to cause the wireless access device to perform the method steps performed by the wireless access device in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0117] Sixthly, this application provides a chip device, which includes at least one processor and a memory. The memory is used to store computer program code, which includes computer instructions. The at least one processor invokes the computer instructions to cause an electronic device on which the chip device is mounted to perform the method steps performed by the electronic device in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0118] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a chip device, which includes at least one processor and a memory. The memory is used to store computer program code, which includes computer instructions. The at least one processor invokes the computer instructions to cause a wireless access device equipped with the chip device to perform the method steps performed by the wireless access device in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0119] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a readable storage medium for storing computer instructions that, when executed on an electronic device, cause the electronic device to perform the method steps executed by the electronic device in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0120] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide a readable storage medium for storing computer instructions that, when executed on a wireless access device, cause the wireless access device to perform the method steps executed by the wireless access device in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0121] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product that, when run on an electronic device, causes the electronic device to execute the method steps performed by the electronic device in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0122] In the eleventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product that, when run on a wireless access device, causes the wireless access device to execute the method steps performed by the wireless access device in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0123] Figure 1 An exemplary schematic diagram of a system architecture provided in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0124] Figure 2 This application provides an exemplary method flow for establishing a network connection between a sub-router 3 and a main router according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0125] Figures 3A-3D An exemplary UI diagram illustrating the connection of a smart device 100 to the wireless local area network where the main router is located, provided in an embodiment of this application, is shown.

[0126] Figure 4 An exemplary illustration shows a schematic diagram of an application scenario provided by an embodiment of this application;

[0127] Figure 5 An exemplary schematic diagram of a router provided in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0128] Figure 6 An exemplary schematic diagram of the structure of a smart device 100 provided in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0129] Figure 7 An exemplary flowchart of a power distribution method provided in Embodiment 1 of this application is shown;

[0130] Figures 7A-7B An exemplary illustration shows a set of UI diagrams provided in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0131] Figure 8 An exemplary flowchart of another power distribution method provided in Embodiment 1 of this application is shown;

[0132] Figure 9An exemplary flowchart of another power distribution method provided in Embodiment 1 of this application is shown;

[0133] Figure 10 An exemplary flowchart of another power distribution method provided in Embodiment 1 of this application is shown;

[0134] Figure 11 This example illustrates the process by which the sub-router 3, as provided in Embodiment 1 of this application, negotiates and transmits the password of the wireless local area network where the main router resides with the main router;

[0135] Figure 12 An exemplary schematic diagram illustrates the method flowchart for negotiating parameter information between the sub-router 3 and the main route provided in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0136] Figure 13 An exemplary flowchart of a power distribution method provided in Embodiment 2 of this application is shown;

[0137] Figure 14 An exemplary flowchart of another power distribution method provided in Embodiment 2 of this application is shown;

[0138] Figure 15 An exemplary flowchart of another power distribution method provided in Embodiment 2 of this application is shown;

[0139] Figure 16 An exemplary flowchart of another power distribution method provided in Embodiment 2 of this application is shown;

[0140] Figure 17 This example illustrates the process by which a smart device 100 negotiates and transmits the password of the wireless local area network where the main router is located with a main router, according to Embodiment 2 of this application.

[0141] Figure 18 An exemplary flowchart of a power distribution method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0142] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will now be described clearly and in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " means "or," for example, A / B can mean A or B; the word "and / or" in the text is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" refers to two or more than two.

[0143] Hereinafter, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as implying or suggesting relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature, and in the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more.

[0144] The term "user interface (UI)" used in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application refers to the medium through which an application or operating system interacts and exchanges information with the user. It converts information between its internal form and a form acceptable to the user. The user interface of an application is source code written in a specific computer language such as Java or Extensible Markup Language (XML). This source code is parsed and rendered on the terminal device, ultimately presenting user-recognizable content such as images, text, and buttons. Controls, also known as widgets, are the basic elements of the user interface. Typical controls include toolbars, menu bars, input boxes, buttons, scroll bars, images, and text. The attributes and content of controls in the interface are defined through tags or nodes, such as XML tags. <textview> 、 <imgview> 、 <videoview>Nodes define the controls contained in the interface. A node corresponds to a control or property in the interface, and after parsing and rendering, the node is presented as the content visible to the user. In addition, many applications, such as hybrid applications, often contain web pages within their interfaces. A web page, also known as a webpage, can be understood as a special control embedded in the application interface. Web pages are source code written in a specific computer language, such as Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), JavaScript (JS), etc. Web page source code can be loaded and displayed as user-readable content by a browser or a web page display component with browser-like functionality. The specific content contained in a webpage is also defined through tags or nodes in the webpage source code; for example, HTML uses tags or nodes to define the content. 、 、 <video> 、 <canvas>To define the elements and attributes of a webpage.

[0145] The most common form of user interface is the graphical user interface (GUI), which refers to a user interface related to computer operation displayed graphically. It can be a window, control, or other interface elements displayed on the screen of an electronic device.

[0146] like Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1 An exemplary system architecture diagram of an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0147] like Figure 1 As shown, the system 10 may include one or more routers, one or more smart devices, etc. The router is a device that can act as an access point (AP) to provide network access to the smart devices. The smart devices may be portable terminal devices such as mobile phones, tablets, smart screens, desktop computers, laptops, handheld computers, notebook computers, ultra-mobile personal computers (UMPCs), and netbooks equipped with WiFi modules. Smart devices may also be smart home devices, such as smart speakers, smart TV lights, curtains, robot vacuum cleaners, refrigerators, ovens, water heaters, and smart door locks. This application embodiment does not limit the type of smart device 100. Smart devices equipped with WiFi modules can operate in station (STA) mode. The smart device 100 connects to the router so that it can receive and / or send data.

[0148] like Figure 1 As shown, the main router, along with sub-routers 1 and 2, forms a mesh network within the area. The system architecture used in this embodiment may also include more or fewer routers; this application does not impose limitations here. For example, the main router may connect to more sub-routers or smart devices; or, for example, sub-router 1 may also act as the main router, connecting to other routers, such as sub-router 1 connecting to sub-router 11 and sub-router 12 (sub-router 11 and sub-router 12 are in...). Figure 1 (Not shown in the text) connection; for example, in addition to accessing the wireless network through the main router, smart devices can also access the wireless network through sub-router 1, sub-router 2 or other sub-routers.

[0149] The main router provides wireless network service to area 1. After sub-router 1 establishes a network connection with the main router, it provides wireless network service to area 2. After sub-router 2 establishes a network connection with the main router, it provides wireless network service to area 3. It should be noted that areas 1, 2, and 3 can be different from each other, or they can partially overlap; this application does not impose any limitations on this. If there are overlapping areas, the smart device 100 located in the overlapping area can connect to any router covering that area. Preferably, the smart device 100 connects to the router with the best signal quality. When the smart device 100 moves from one area to another, it can switch the router it connects to.

[0150] In some embodiments, if the coverage of the wireless network provided by the main router, sub-router 1, and sub-router 2 does not meet the user's needs—for example, if certain areas are far from the main router, sub-router 1, and sub-router 2, resulting in poor wireless network signal and a poor user experience—the user can network another sub-router (e.g., sub-router 3) with one or more existing routers to achieve whole-house wireless network coverage. For example, sub-router 3 can establish a network connection with the main router. Then, sub-router 3 is placed in areas with poor wireless network signal to solve the problem of insufficient coverage and poor signal in certain areas.

[0151] In other embodiments, smart device 100 can connect to any one of the main router, sub-router 1, and sub-router 2, and receive and / or send data through the wireless network provided by that device. For example, smart device 100 can connect to the main router and communicate with other devices (e.g., another smart device 100) through the wireless network provided by the main router.

[0152] like Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2 This paper exemplifies a method flow for establishing a network connection between a sub-router 3 and a main router, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0153] S201, Sub-router 3 is enabled, and Sub-router 3 is in the state of waiting for network configuration.

[0154] When a user operation is received to trigger sub-router 3 to enter the network configuration standby state, electronic device 100 is turned on and enters the network configuration standby state. The aforementioned user operation to trigger sub-router 3 to turn on and enter the network configuration standby state can be a long press operation (e.g., a long press for 3 seconds) on a relevant button (e.g., the network configuration button) on sub-router 3.

[0155] Optionally, the network configuration key can be a "Hi key" or a "WPS key", etc. This application does not limit the name of the network configuration key.

[0156] The type of network distribution key can be push-button, rotary, or toggle-type; this application does not limit the type of network distribution key.

[0157] In some embodiments, the user operation described above for triggering the sub-router 3 to start and be in a network configuration state can be an operation to power on the sub-router 3 that has not been connected to the wireless network of other devices, or it can be an operation to power on the sub-router 3 that has been connected to the wireless network of other devices but has been restored to factory settings.

[0158] This application embodiment does not limit the user operations described above for triggering the sub-router 3 to be turned on and in the network configuration standby state. In practical applications, the sub-router 3 can enter the network configuration standby state in various ways, such as through smart remote control or by turning it on via a mobile application APP.

[0159] S202. When sub-router 3 is in the network configuration state, sub-router 3 sends probe request frame 1.

[0160] The probe request frame one carries the network information element (IE) of sub-router 3. The network IE may include, but is not limited to, the identifier of sub-router 3, whether sub-router 3 supports interconnection, and other information. The probe request frame one may also include other information, which is not limited herein.

[0161] The probe request frame 1 can be sent out in the form of a broadcast. The probe request frame 1 is used by other nearby devices to discover sub-router 3.

[0162] When probe request frame one is sent as a broadcast, it also carries a destination address consisting of all "0"s. The destination address of all "0"s in probe request frame one indicates that it is a broadcast frame. Sub-router 3 sends probe request frame one as a broadcast, so that all other devices (including router devices and non-router devices) within the signal coverage area of ​​sub-router 3 can receive the broadcast frame. For example, the destination address of probe request frame one can be represented as "00:00:00:00:00:00".

[0163] The probe request frame 1 can also carry the source address of sub-router 3. The source address of sub-router 3 in probe request frame 1 is used by other devices within the signal coverage area of ​​sub-router 3 to send a response request frame 1 in response to probe request frame 1 to sub-router 3 in the form of unicast after receiving probe request frame 1.

[0164] When sub-router 3 is in network configuration mode, and it broadcasts a probe request frame 1, all devices within its signal coverage area can receive this frame. For example, if multiple routers are within the signal coverage area of ​​sub-router 3, all of them can receive the probe request frame 1 sent by sub-router 3. For instance, if the devices within the signal coverage area of ​​sub-router 3 include the main router, sub-router 1, and sub-router 2, then all three can receive the probe request frame 1 sent by sub-router 3.

[0165] It should be noted that sub-router 3 can periodically (e.g., every 200ms) send probe request frame 1 to the main router. Before sub-router 3 receives probe response frame 1 from the main router (i.e., before S204), sub-router 3 periodically sends probe request frame 1 to the main router. In other words, S202 can be executed once or multiple times before S204 is executed.

[0166] The master router receives probe request frame 1 sent by the sub-router 3. The master router then sends probe response frame 1 to the sub-router 3. After receiving probe response frame 1, the sub-router 3 stops sending probe request frames 1.

[0167] S203. The main router receives and responds to probe request frame one, discovers the device to be networked, and the indicator light on the main router flashes.

[0168] The master router receives and responds to probe request frame one, and identifies the network configuration information element of sub-router 3 carried in probe request frame one. When sub-router 3 supports interconnection capability, the master device will treat sub-router 3 as the device to be networked. At the same time, the indicator light on the master router will flash, indicating that the master router has discovered the device to be networked (sub-router 3). The flashing indicator light on the master router can serve as a prompt message to inform the user that the master router has discovered the device to be networked.

[0169] As shown in S202, sub-router 3 can broadcast a probe request frame 1. When other routers within the signal coverage area of ​​sub-router 3 receive probe request frame 1, their indicator lights will flash. For example, if sub-router 1, sub-router 2, and the main router are all within the signal coverage area of ​​sub-router 3 and have all received probe request frame 1 from sub-router 3, then the indicator lights of sub-router 1, sub-router 2, and the main router will all flash. If sub-router 1 and sub-router 2 are not within the signal coverage area of ​​sub-router 3 and have not received probe request frame 1 from sub-router 3, while the main router is within the signal coverage area of ​​sub-router 3 and has received probe request frame 1 from sub-router 3, then the indicator lights of sub-router 1 and sub-router 2 will not flash, while the indicator light of the main router will flash.

[0170] It should be noted that this application embodiment does not limit the form in which the main router responds to the received probe request frame one. The main router may respond to the received probe request frame one by flashing an indicator light, or the main router may respond to the received probe request frame one in other forms, or the main router may not respond to the received probe request frame one in a visible form, or the main router may not respond to the received probe request frame one, and so on.

[0171] S204. In response to the probe request frame 1 sent by sub-router 3, the master router sends probe response frame 1 to sub-router 3. Accordingly, sub-router 3 receives probe response frame 1.

[0172] In response to the probe request frame 1 sent by the sub-router 3, the main router sends a probe response frame 1 to the sub-router 3. The probe response frame 1 is used to inform the sub-router 3 that the main router has received the probe request frame 1.

[0173] The probe response frame 1 may carry the primary router's basic service set identifier (BSSID). The primary router's BSSID can be understood as the name of the wireless local area network (WLAN) where the primary router resides. For example, the primary router's BSSID could be as follows: Figure 3C Identifier 312 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0174] The probe response frame one can be sent by the main route to the sub-router 3 in unicast form. In this case, the probe response frame one can also carry the source address (the address of the main route) and the destination address (the address of the sub-router 3). The address of the sub-router 3 can be the one carried by the sub-router 3 in probe request frame one and sent to the main route in S202. It should be understood that the probe response frame one can also carry other information, which is not limited in this embodiment.

[0175] The execution order of S203 and S204 is not limited in this application embodiment. S203 can be executed first and then S204, or S204 can be executed first and then S203, or S203 and S204 can be executed simultaneously.

[0176] As shown in S202, sub-router 3 can periodically (e.g., every 200ms) send probe request frame 1 to the main router. Each time the main router receives a probe request frame 1 from sub-router 3, it sends a probe response frame 1 back to sub-router 3. Since S202 is executed periodically, S204 can also be considered to be executed periodically. That is, before S205 is executed, S204 can be executed once or multiple times.

[0177] S205. In response to the probe response frame one sent by the main router, sub-router 3 sends probe request frame two to the main router. Accordingly, the main router receives probe request frame two.

[0178] After receiving the probe response frame 1 sent by the master router in S204, sub-router 3 sends probe request frame 2 to the master router. Probe request frame 2 is used by sub-router 3 to initiate a request to the master router to establish a network connection.

[0179] The probe request frame 2 can carry the BSSID of the master route.

[0180] The probe request frame two can be sent by sub-router 3 to the master router in unicast form. In this case, probe request frame two can also carry the source address (the address of sub-router 3) and the destination address (the address of the master router). The address of the master router can be carried by the master router in probe response frame one and sent to sub-router 3 in S204.

[0181] It should be understood that the second probe request frame may also carry other information, which is not limited in this embodiment of the application.

[0182] It should be noted that sub-router 3 can periodically (e.g., every 200ms) send probe request frame two to the main router. Before sub-router 3 receives probe response frame two from the main router (i.e., before S207), sub-router 3 periodically sends probe request frame two to the main router. In other words, S205 can be executed once or multiple times before S207 is executed.

[0183] When the main router receives probe request frame two from sub-router 3, if the main router has not yet received confirmation from the user that it agrees to establish a network connection with sub-router 3 (e.g., the user presses the network configuration button on the main router, i.e., S206 has not occurred), the main router can continue to send probe response frame one to sub-router 3. In other words, if S205 has been executed but S206 has not, S204 can be executed again.

[0184] S206, The main router receives the first user's operation.

[0185] When a user confirms that sub-router 3 is connected to the main router in a network, the user can perform the first user operation, and the main router can receive the user's first user operation on the main router.

[0186] The first user action can be a user's trigger action on the main router's network configuration key (e.g., pressing it).

[0187] In one implementation, the network configuration key can be a "Hi key" or a "WPS key," etc., and this application embodiment does not limit the name of the network configuration key. The type of network configuration key can be a push-button type, a rotary type, or a toggle type, and this application embodiment does not limit the type of network configuration key.

[0188] In another implementation, the configuration button can also be a virtual button on a terminal device (such as a mobile phone), and the user can perform configuration settings for the sub-router 3 or the main router by operating through the router's configuration settings interface.

[0189] The execution order of S205 and S206 is not limited in this application embodiment. S205 can be executed first and then S206, or S206 can be executed first and then S205, or S205 and S206 can be executed simultaneously.

[0190] S207. In response to the first user's operation, the main router sends probe response frame two to the sub-router 3. Accordingly, the sub-router 3 receives probe response frame two.

[0191] Upon receiving probe request frame two from sub-router 3, and after the main router receives the first user operation (i.e., after both S205 and S206 occur), the main router sends probe response frame two to sub-router 3. After receiving probe response frame two, sub-router 3 will stop periodically sending probe request frame two to the main router.

[0192] In response to the first user's operation, the main router sends a probe response frame 2 to the sub-router 3. The probe response frame 2 is used to inform the sub-router 3 that the main router agrees to establish a network connection with the sub-router 3.

[0193] The second probe response frame may carry a password transmission mode negotiation capability identifier. The password transmission mode negotiation capability identifier may be a Wi-Fi protected setup (WPS) negotiation capability identifier, etc., which is not limited to this embodiment of the application.

[0194] The second probe response frame can be sent by the main route to the sub-router 3 via unicast. In this case, the second probe response frame can also carry the source address (the address of the main route) and the destination address (the address of the sub-router 3).

[0195] In some embodiments, the probe response frame 2 may also carry the media access control (MAC) address of the sub-router 3.

[0196] The MAC address of sub-router 3 is used by sub-router 3 to confirm whether to respond to the second probe response frame. Specifically, the second probe response frame carries the MAC address of sub-router 3. The main router sends the second probe response frame to sub-router 3, and sub-router 3 obtains the MAC address carried in the second probe response frame. If sub-router 3 determines that the MAC address carried in the second probe response frame is the same as the MAC address stored locally, then sub-router 3 confirms receipt and responds to the second probe response frame. Afterwards, sub-router 3 will negotiate with the main router to transmit the password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located.

[0197] Optionally, the MAC address and password transmission mode negotiation capability identifier of sub-router 3 can be written into the message body of probe response frame two. The source address (address of the main router) and destination address (address of sub-router 3) carried in probe response frame two can be written into the message header of probe response frame two.

[0198] The second detection response frame may also carry other information, which is not limited in this embodiment of the application.

[0199] S208 and sub-router 3 negotiate with the main router to pass on the password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located.

[0200] In some embodiments, the sub-router 3 and the main router can negotiate and transmit the password of the wireless local area network where the main router is located using the WPS standard. The sub-router 3 and the main router can also negotiate and transmit the password of the wireless local area network where the main router is located using other methods; this embodiment of the application does not limit the specific methods used.

[0201] How sub-router 3 negotiates and transmits the Wi-Fi password with the main router via WPS will be explained in detail in subsequent embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0202] As can be seen from the above analysis, Figure 2 The solutions illustrated in the examples have the following drawbacks:

[0203] 1. When the sub-router 3 establishes a network connection with the main router, the main router needs to receive a user trigger (e.g., a press) before sending the network configuration information to the sub-router 3 and establishing a network connection. If the main router is placed in a corner or in a location that is inconvenient for the user to reach, such as placing the main router on top of a wardrobe or in the home's low-voltage box, the user will find it inconvenient to operate when the main router needs to receive user triggers, resulting in a poor user experience.

[0204] Second, in some embodiments, when the main router receives network configuration requests from two or more sub-routers at the same time, the main router receives a user trigger (e.g., a press) operation, and the main router will send information agreeing to network configuration connection to the two or more sub-routers at the same time. At this time, the user does not know which of the two or more sub-routers the main router has established a network configuration connection with, resulting in a chaotic network topology.

[0205] Figures 3A-3D An exemplary UI diagram illustrating a smart device 100 connected to a wireless local area network where a main router is located, provided in an embodiment of this application, is shown.

[0206] like Figure 3A As shown, Figure 3A An exemplary illustration shows a user interface 30 on a smart device 100 for displaying installed applications. This user interface 30 displays: a status bar, a calendar indicator, a weather indicator, a tray with icons of frequently used applications, a navigation bar, an icon for file management 301, an icon for email 302, an icon for music 303, an icon for settings 304, an icon for fitness tracking 305, an icon for weather 306, etc. The tray with icons of frequently used applications includes an icon for camera 307, an icon for contacts 308, an icon for phone 309, and an icon for messages 310. The status bar may include: one or more signal strength indicators for mobile communication signals (also known as cellular signals), the operator's name (e.g., "China Mobile"), one or more signal strength indicators for Wi-Fi signals, a battery status indicator, a time indicator, etc. The navigation bar may include system navigation keys such as a back button, a home button, and a multitasking button. In some embodiments, Figure 3A The user interface 30 shown in the example can be the main interface (Home screen).

[0207] like Figure 3A As shown, the smart device 100 receives and responds to the user's click on the settings icon 304, and the smart device 100 displays as shown. Figure 3B The user interface 40 shown is an example. Figure 3B As shown, the user interface 40 includes an airplane mode icon (airplane mode off on smart device 100), a Wi-Fi icon 311, and also includes Bluetooth, personal hotspot, mobile network, Do Not Disturb, display and brightness icons, Huawei account, and privacy icons. Figure 3B As shown, smart device 100 receives and responds to the user's click on the Wi-Fi icon 311, and smart device 100 displays as shown. Figure 3C The user interface shown is 50.

[0208] like Figure 3C As shown, the user interface 50 includes a Wi-Fi icon, indicating that the Wi-Fi function of the smart device 100 is enabled. The user interface 50 also includes an identifier 312 indicating the name of the wireless local area network (WLAN) where the router near the smart device 100 is located. For example, the name of the WLAN could be "Wireless network 001", "Wireless network 002", "Wireless network 003", "Wireless network 004", etc. The user interface 50 also includes an indicator 313 showing the signal strength of the wireless network.

[0209] Depend on Figure 3C As shown, Figure 3C All wireless networks in the Wi-Fi list shown are encrypted. When smart device 100 establishes a connection with any wireless network in the Wi-Fi list, the user needs to enter the corresponding wireless LAN password to connect to that wireless network. For example, when smart device 100 establishes a connection with a wireless LAN named "Wireless network 001", such as... Figure 3C As shown, the smart device 100 can receive and respond to user trigger operations (such as click operations) targeting the identifier "Wireless network 001" 312 of the wireless local area network where the router is located. The smart device 100 displays as shown below. Figure 3D The user interface shown is 60.

[0210] like Figure 3D As shown, the user interface 60 includes a password input field 313 for the identifier "Wirelessnetwork001" 312 of the wireless local area network where the router is located. The smart device 100 can receive the user's input operation in the password input field 313. When the password entered by the user is consistent with the password of the wireless local area network corresponding to the identifier "Wireless network001" 312 of the wireless local area network where the router is located, the smart device 100 will establish a connection with the wireless network "Wireless network001".

[0211] As can be seen from the above, when smart device 100 connects to the main router, the user needs to perform a series of operations, including clicking on settings, clicking on the name of the wireless LAN where the main router is located in the Wi-Fi list, and manually entering the password. This process is cumbersome. The password for the wireless LAN where the main router is located may consist of numbers and / or uppercase letters and / or lowercase letters and / or special symbols, and manual input may result in errors, leading to multiple attempts to enter the correct password and a poor user experience.

[0212] Therefore, this application provides a network configuration method. The method includes: after a router discovers an electronic device to be configured on the network, the router sends the name of its wireless local area network (WLAN) to the electronic device using ultra-low power and / or sends a message responding to a network configuration request to the electronic device using ultra-low power. The electronic device can only receive the name of its WLAN sent by the router using ultra-low power and / or the message responding to the network configuration request sent by the router using ultra-low power when the distance between the electronic device and the router is sufficiently close (e.g., within a first distance). After receiving the name of the WLAN and the message responding to the network configuration request, the electronic device and the router negotiate the transmission of the password for the WLAN. Thus, after obtaining the name and password of the WLAN, the electronic device can connect to the router.

[0213] The power distribution method provided in this application has the following beneficial effects:

[0214] Firstly, users do not need to manually intervene in the router or manually enter the router password on their electronic devices. They only need to bring their electronic devices close to the router (for example, make the distance between the electronic devices and the router within a certain distance) and the electronic devices will automatically connect to the router, reducing user operations and improving user experience.

[0215] Secondly, during the network configuration process, the router only transmits the name of its wireless LAN and / or the message responding to the configuration request to the electronic device (e.g., electronic device one) using ultra-low power. While transmitting the wireless LAN name and / or the message responding to the configuration request to electronic device one using ultra-low power, the router can send messages to other electronic devices already connected to the router (e.g., electronic device two) at normal power. This ensures that the normal services of electronic device two, which is already connected to the router, are not affected.

[0216] In other words, if at the first moment, the router needs to send the name of its wireless LAN and / or a message responding to a network configuration request to electronic device one using ultra-low power, the router also needs to send a message to electronic device two, which is already connected to the router. Therefore, at the first moment, the router can send a message to electronic device two at normal power. This avoids the current problem where, when the router is sending messages at ultra-low power, it cannot send messages at normal power, and if electronic device two, which is already connected to the router, is far from the router (not within the first distance), it might not receive the message sent by the router at ultra-low power. Here, the electronic device can be... Figure 1 The sub-routes described in the system architecture shown (e.g., sub-route 3) can also be... Figure 1 The system architecture shown includes smart devices 100 (e.g., mobile phones, IoT devices), and routers. Figure 1 The system architecture shown includes the main router, etc.

[0217] like Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario of the power distribution method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0218] like Figure 4 As shown, this home application scenario includes a first room area 410, a second room area 420, and a living room area 430. The first room area 410 includes router 401, the second room area 420 includes router 402, and the living room area 430 includes router 403. In one implementation, router 403 can be used as the main router, and routers 401 and 402 as sub-routers. This home application scenario also includes users, who can access... Figure 4 Smart devices 100 (such as mobile phones) can browse web pages, watch videos, etc. on the wireless network provided by any router.

[0219] The network configuration method provided in this application can be used for router network configuration and also for smart device network configuration.

[0220] I. Router Network Configuration

[0221] For example, assuming routers 401 and 403 have established a network connection and formed a mesh network, router 401 can provide a wireless network for the first room area 410, and router 403 can provide a wireless network for the living room area 430. If, at this time, no sub-routers are configured to network with the main router in the second room area 420, nor is there a router configured to provide wireless network services independently, then the signals of routers 403 and 401 may not cover the second room area 420, resulting in no wireless network or a weak wireless network signal in the second room area 420.

[0222] To improve the signal strength of the wireless network in the second room area 420, the user can install router 402 in the second room area 420 and add router 402 to the mesh network composed of routers 401 and 403. Specifically, the user can place router 402 close to router 401 or router 403. For example, the user can place router 402 close to router 401. When the distance between router 402 and router 401 is close enough, and router 402 can receive the name of the wireless LAN where router 401 is located, transmitted by router 401 at very low power, and / or the response message to the network configuration request transmitted by router 401 at very low power, then router 401 will recognize router 402 as a device to be connected to the network. Afterwards, router 402 negotiates with router 401 to obtain the password of the wireless LAN where router 401 is located, and connects to router 401 based on the name and password of the wireless LAN where router 401 is located. Then, router 402 and router 401 complete the parameter negotiation and parameter synchronization process, and router 402 and router 401 form a mesh network.

[0223] After router 402, routers 401, and router 403 form a mesh network, each router within the same mesh network can have the same parameter information. Therefore, when a smart device (e.g., a mobile phone) switches its connection from router 402 to router 401 or router 403, there will be no interruption of the smart device's current service. For example, a smart device (e.g., a mobile phone) is initially within the signal coverage area of ​​sub-router 402 and is making a video call with other devices (e.g., a tablet) through the wireless network provided by router 402. When the smart device moves, from its original location within the signal coverage area of ​​router 402 to a location within the signal coverage area of ​​router 401, the smart device will switch its connection from router 402 to router 401. Because routers 402 and 401 form a mesh network, there will be no interruption or stuttering during the smart device's video call with other devices during the process of switching its connection from router 402 to router 401.

[0224] After router 402 forms a mesh network with routers 401 and 403, the user can place router 402 in the second room area 420, and then router 402 can provide wireless network for the second room area 420.

[0225] II. Smart Device Distribution Network

[0226] If a user wants smart device 100 to connect to the wireless network, the user can place smart device 100 close to any router (router 401, router 402, or router 403) in the mesh network. For example, the user can place smart device 100 close to router 401. When the distance between smart device 100 and router 401 is close enough, and smart device 100 can receive the name of the wireless LAN where router 401 is located, transmitted by router 401 at very low power, and / or the message responding to the network configuration request transmitted by router 401 at very low power, then router 401 will recognize smart device 100 as a device to be connected to the network. Afterwards, smart device 100 negotiates with router 401 to obtain the password of the wireless LAN where router 401 is located, and smart device 100 connects to the wireless LAN where router 401 is located based on the name and password of the wireless LAN.

[0227] After the smart device 100 connects to the wireless local area network where the router 401 is located, the smart device 100 can receive and send data with other devices (such as smart device 200) through the wireless network provided by the router 401.

[0228] like Figure 5 As shown, Figure 5 An exemplary schematic diagram of a router is shown.

[0229] refer to Figure 5 , Figure 5 Routers provided by some embodiments of this application are shown. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the router may include a processor 501, a memory 502, a WLAN communication module 503, an antenna 504, a wired local area network (LAN) communication processing module 505, and a bus 506. The processor 501, memory 502, WLAN communication module 503, and wired LAN communication processing module 505 can be connected via the bus 506.

[0230] It should be noted that, Figure 5 The router shown is just an example, and routers can have more features than... Figure 5 The more or fewer components shown can be combined into two or more components, or they can have different component configurations. Figure 5 The various components shown can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software, including one or more signal processing and / or application-specific integrated circuits.

[0231] like Figure 5 As shown, processor 501 can be used to read and execute computer-readable instructions. In a specific implementation, processor 501 mainly includes a controller, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), and registers. The controller is primarily responsible for instruction decoding and issuing control signals for the operations corresponding to the instructions. The ALU is primarily responsible for storing register operands and intermediate operation results temporarily stored during instruction execution. In a specific implementation, the hardware architecture of processor 501 can be an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) architecture, a MIPS architecture, an ARM architecture, or an NP architecture, etc.

[0232] The processor 501 may also include a memory for storing instructions and data. In some embodiments, the memory in the processor 501 is a cache memory. This memory can store instructions or data that the processor 501 has just used or that are used repeatedly. If the processor 501 needs to use the instruction or data again, it can directly retrieve it from the memory. This avoids repeated accesses, reduces the waiting time of the processor 501, and thus improves the efficiency of the system.

[0233] Memory 502 is coupled to processor 501 and is used to store various software programs and / or multiple sets of instructions. In specific implementations, memory 502 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory, such as one or more disk storage devices, flash memory devices, or other non-volatile solid-state storage devices. Memory 502 may store operating systems, such as uCOS, VxWorks, RTLinux, and other embedded operating systems. Memory 502 may also store communication programs that can be used to communicate with electronic devices or other devices. Memory 502 may also store current configuration, routing tables, and forwarding tables. Routing tables are used to store routing information and are typically maintained by routing protocols and routing table management modules, including more information (network address, next hop, timeout, etc.). Forwarding tables can be generated based on routing tables and are used by routers during actual forwarding; routers can send data packets to the next-hop device according to the forwarding table.

[0234] The WLAN communication module 503 can be used to modulate and demodulate electromagnetic wave signals. The WLAN communication module 503 can convert information and instructions issued by the processor 501 into electromagnetic wave signals. The received electromagnetic wave signals are converted into digital signals and then processed by the processor 501.

[0235] Antenna 504 can be used to transmit and receive electromagnetic wave signals. Routers can have one or more antennas.

[0236] When a router has multiple antennas, these antennas can operate in two modes: spatial multiplexing, where multiple antennas can transmit signals of different power to improve data transmission rates, and spatial diversity, where multiple antennas can simultaneously transmit signals of the same power to improve the quality of communication links.

[0237] In spatial multiplexing, each antenna has a fixed transmit power, meaning each antenna can transmit signals at different power levels. The receiver receives these signals from each antenna and demodulates them individually. This effectively increases the bandwidth of the router's signal transmission, thus increasing the router's signal transmission rate.

[0238] In this embodiment, when the router needs to transmit ultra-low power signals via its antennas, any one of the multiple antennas in the router needs to be time-division multiplexed. That is, when the router does not need to transmit ultra-low power signals, any one of the multiple antennas transmits a fixed-power signal according to a preset setting. When the router needs to transmit ultra-low power signals, any one of the multiple antennas no longer transmits a fixed-power signal according to the preset setting, but instead transmits a signal at ultra-low power, and then transmits a fixed-power signal again according to the preset setting.

[0239] In spatial diversity mode, each antenna transmits a signal of the same power simultaneously. In this embodiment, when the router needs to transmit an ultra-low power signal via its antennas, in one possible implementation, any one of the multiple antennas in the router needs to be time-division multiplexed. That is, when the router does not need to transmit an ultra-low power signal, any one of the multiple antennas transmits a signal of fixed power according to a preset setting. When the router needs to transmit an ultra-low power signal, any one of the multiple antennas no longer transmits a signal of fixed power according to the preset setting, but instead transmits a signal at ultra-low power, and then transmits a signal at fixed power again according to the preset setting. In another possible implementation, the multiple antennas in the router are time-division multiplexed simultaneously. That is, when the router does not need to transmit an ultra-low power signal, the multiple antennas transmit a signal of fixed power according to a preset setting. When the router needs to transmit an ultra-low power signal, the multiple antennas no longer transmit a signal of fixed power according to the preset setting, but instead transmit a signal at ultra-low power, and then transmit a signal at fixed power again according to the preset setting.

[0240] When a router has only one antenna, that antenna needs to be time-division multiplexed, meaning it can transmit signals of different power levels. When the router needs to transmit an ultra-low power signal, that antenna pauses transmitting signals of other power levels and transmits the current signal at the ultra-low power. When the router does not need to transmit ultra-low power signals, that antenna can transmit signals of other power levels.

[0241] The wired LAN communication processing module 505 may include one or more LAN physical interfaces, which can be used to allow other electronic devices to establish connections with the router via network cables.

[0242] The router may also include a wired wide area network (WAN) communication processing module, which may include a WAN physical interface that can be used to connect the router to the Internet.

[0243] The router may also include a configuration key, which may be a "Hi key" or a "WPS key", etc. This application does not limit the name of the configuration key.

[0244] The type of network distribution key can be push-button, rotary, or toggle-type; this application does not limit the type of network distribution key.

[0245] The router may also include a network configuration indicator light. This indicator light can flash to alert the user that the router has detected a device to be configured on the network.

[0246] The router may also include a cellular communication module for communicating with cellular communication base stations. In this case, the router may not include the wired LAN communication processing module 505.

[0247] Understandable, a router can be Figure 1 The system architecture shown includes a main route, sub-route 1, sub-route 2, or sub-route 3. Figure 5 The router shown is merely one implementation of an embodiment of this application. In practical applications, the router may include more or fewer components, which is not limited here.

[0248] like Figure 6 As shown, Figure 6 An exemplary structural diagram of a smart device 100 is shown.

[0249] like Figure 6 As shown, the smart device 100 may include a processor 110, an external memory interface 120, an internal memory 121, a universal serial bus (USB) interface 130, a charging management module 140, a power management module 141, a battery 142, an antenna 1, an antenna 2, a mobile communication module 150, a wireless communication module 160, an audio module 170, a speaker 170A, a receiver 170B, a microphone 170C, a headphone jack 170D, a sensor module 180, buttons 190, a motor 191, an indicator 192, a camera 193, a display screen 194, and a subscriber identification module (SIM) card interface 195, etc. The sensor module 180 may include a pressure sensor 180A, a gyroscope sensor 180B, a barometric pressure sensor 180C, a magnetic sensor 180D, an accelerometer sensor 180E, a distance sensor 180F, a proximity sensor 180G, a fingerprint sensor 180H, a temperature sensor 180J, a touch sensor 180K, an ambient light sensor 180L, a bone conduction sensor 180M, etc.

[0250] It is understood that the structures illustrated in the embodiments of the present invention do not constitute a specific limitation on the smart device 100. In other embodiments of this application, the smart device 100 may include more or fewer components than illustrated, or combine some components, or split some components, or have different component arrangements. The illustrated components may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0251] Processor 110 may include one or more processing units, such as: application processor (AP), modem processor, graphics processing unit (GPU), image signal processor (ISP), controller, memory, video codec, digital signal processor (DSP), baseband processor, and / or neural network processing unit (NPU), etc. Different processing units may be independent devices or integrated into one or more processors.

[0252] In some embodiments, the processor 110 may include a softAP network configuration module. This softAP network configuration module may be integrated into an AP, NPU, or other chip. When NAN network configuration failure is confirmed, the smart device 100 can wake up the softAP network configuration module and use the softAP network configuration method to configure the network for the smart device 100. In other embodiments, the processor 110 may include a Bluetooth network configuration module, an acoustic network configuration module, etc. This application does not limit the chip integrating the above-mentioned different types of network configuration modules. The above-mentioned different types of network configuration modules can be woken up after the smart device 100 confirms NAN network configuration failure. The smart device 100 can use the above-mentioned different types of network configuration modules to provide corresponding network configuration services for the smart device 100.

[0253] The controller can serve as the central nervous system and command center of the intelligent device 100. The controller can generate operation control signals based on instruction opcodes and timing signals to control the fetching and execution of instructions.

[0254] The processor 110 may also include a memory for storing instructions and data. In some embodiments, the memory in the processor 110 is a cache memory. This memory can store instructions or data that the processor 110 has just used or that are used repeatedly. If the processor 110 needs to use the instruction or data again, it can retrieve it directly from the memory. This avoids repeated accesses, reduces the waiting time of the processor 110, and thus improves the efficiency of the system.

[0255] USB port 130 is a USB standard compliant interface, specifically a Mini USB port, Micro USB port, or USB Type-C port. USB port 130 can be used to connect a charger to charge smart device 100, and can also be used for data transfer between smart device 100 and peripheral devices. It can also be used to connect headphones for audio playback. This interface can also be used to connect other electronic devices, such as AR devices.

[0256] The charging management module 140 is used to receive charging input from the charger.

[0257] The power management module 141 is used to connect the battery 142, the charging management module 140, and the processor 110. The power management module 141 receives input from the battery 142 and / or the charging management module 140 to power the processor 110, internal memory 121, external memory, display 194, camera 193, and wireless communication module 160, etc.

[0258] The wireless communication function of the smart device 100 can be implemented through antenna 1, antenna 2, mobile communication module 150, wireless communication module 160, modem processor, and baseband processor.

[0259] Antenna 1 and Antenna 2 are used to transmit and receive electromagnetic wave signals. Each antenna in the smart device 100 can be used to cover one or more communication frequency bands. Different antennas can also be reused to improve antenna utilization.

[0260] The mobile communication module 150 can provide wireless communication solutions, including 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G, for use in smart devices 100. The mobile communication module 150 may include at least one filter, switch, power amplifier, low noise amplifier (LNA), etc. The mobile communication module 150 can receive electromagnetic waves via antenna 1, and perform filtering, amplification, and other processing on the received electromagnetic waves before transmitting them to a modem processor for demodulation. The mobile communication module 150 can also amplify the signal modulated by the modem processor and convert it into electromagnetic waves for radiation via antenna 1.

[0261] The wireless communication module 160 can provide solutions for wireless communication applications on the smart device 100, including wireless local area networks (WLAN) (such as wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) networks), Bluetooth (BT), global navigation satellite system (GNSS), frequency modulation (FM), near field communication (NFC), and infrared (IR) technologies. The wireless communication module 160 can be one or more devices integrating at least one communication processing module. The wireless communication module 160 receives electromagnetic waves via antenna 2, performs frequency modulation and filtering of the electromagnetic wave signals, and sends the processed signal to processor 110. The wireless communication module 160 can also receive signals to be transmitted from processor 110, perform frequency modulation and amplification, and convert them into electromagnetic waves for radiation via antenna 2.

[0262] The smart device 100 implements display functions through a GPU, a display screen 194, and an application processor. The GPU is a microprocessor for image processing, connecting the display screen 194 and the application processor. The GPU is used to perform mathematical and geometric calculations and for graphics rendering. The processor 110 may include one or more GPUs, which execute program instructions to generate or modify display information.

[0263] The display screen 194 is used to display images, videos, etc. In some embodiments, the smart device 100 may include one or N display screens 194, where N is a positive integer greater than 1.

[0264] The smart device 100 can achieve shooting functions through ISP, camera 193, video codec, GPU, display 194 and application processor.

[0265] The ISP is used to process data fed back from the camera 193. For example, when taking a picture, the shutter is opened, and light is transmitted through the lens to the camera's photosensitive element. The light signal is converted into an electrical signal, and the camera's photosensitive element transmits the electrical signal to the ISP for processing, converting it into an image visible to the naked eye. In some embodiments, the ISP may be located within the camera 193.

[0266] Camera 193 is used to capture still images or videos. An object is projected onto a photosensitive element by generating an optical image through the lens. The photosensitive element can be a charge-coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) phototransistor. The photosensitive element converts the light signal into an electrical signal, which is then passed to an ISP for conversion into a digital image signal. The ISP outputs the digital image signal to a DSP for processing. The DSP converts the digital image signal into image signals in standard RGB, YUV, or other formats. In some embodiments, the smart device 100 may include one or N cameras 193, where N is a positive integer greater than 1.

[0267] A digital signal processor (DSP) is used to process digital signals. Besides digital image signals, it can also process other digital signals. For example, when the smart device 100 selects a frequency, the DSP performs a Fourier transform on the frequency energy.

[0268] Video codecs are used to compress or decompress digital video. Smart device 100 may support one or more video codecs. Thus, smart device 100 can play or record videos in various encoding formats, such as Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) 1, MPEG 2, MPEG 3, MPEG 4, etc.

[0269] NPU stands for Neural Network (NN) Computing Processor. By borrowing the structure of biological neural networks, such as the transmission patterns between neurons in the human brain, it can rapidly process input information and continuously learn on its own. NPUs enable intelligent devices to achieve intelligent cognitive applications, such as image recognition, facial recognition, speech recognition, and text understanding.

[0270] The external storage interface 120 can be used to connect an external storage card, such as a Micro SD card, to expand the storage capacity of the smart device 100. The external storage card communicates with the processor 110 through the external storage interface 120 to perform data storage functions. For example, music, video, and other files can be saved on the external storage card.

[0271] Internal memory 121 can be used to store computer executable program code, which includes instructions. Processor 110 executes various functional applications and data processing of smart device 100 by running the instructions stored in internal memory 121.

[0272] The smart device 100 can implement audio functions, such as music playback and recording, through an audio module 170, a speaker 170A, a receiver 170B, a microphone 170C, a headphone jack 170D, and an application processor.

[0273] Audio module 170 is used to convert digital audio information into analog audio signal output, and also to convert analog audio input into digital audio signal. Audio module 170 can also be used for encoding and decoding audio signals.

[0274] The loudspeaker 170A, also known as a "loudspeaker", is used to convert audio electrical signals into sound signals.

[0275] The receiver 170B, also known as the "earpiece", is used to convert audio electrical signals into sound signals.

[0276] The microphone 170C, also known as a "microphone" or "voice transducer," is used to convert sound signals into electrical signals.

[0277] The 170D headphone jack is used to connect wired headphones.

[0278] The pressure sensor 180A is used to sense pressure signals and can convert pressure signals into electrical signals.

[0279] The gyroscope sensor 180B can be used to determine the motion attitude of the smart device 100. In some embodiments, the angular velocity of the smart device 100 about three axes (i.e., the x, y, and z axes) can be determined by the gyroscope sensor 180B.

[0280] The 180C barometric pressure sensor is used to measure barometric pressure.

[0281] The magnetic sensor 180D includes a Hall sensor.

[0282] The 180E accelerometer can detect the magnitude of acceleration of the smart device 100 in various directions (typically three axes). When the smart device 100 is stationary, it can detect the magnitude and direction of gravity. It can also be used to identify the posture of the smart device 100, and can be applied to applications such as screen orientation switching and pedometers.

[0283] The distance sensor 180F is used to measure distance. The smart device 100 can measure distance via infrared or laser.

[0284] The proximity sensor 180G may include, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED) and a light detector, such as a photodiode. The LED may be an infrared LED. The smart device 100 emits infrared light outward through the LED. The smart device 100 uses the photodiode to detect infrared reflected light from nearby objects. When sufficient reflected light is detected, it can be determined that an object is near the smart device 100. When insufficient reflected light is detected, the smart device 100 can determine that no object is near the smart device 100.

[0285] The 180L ambient light sensor is used to detect ambient light intensity.

[0286] The fingerprint sensor 180H is used to collect fingerprints.

[0287] The 180J temperature sensor is used to detect temperature.

[0288] Touch sensor 180K, also known as a "touch panel," can be located on display screen 194. The touch sensor 180K and display screen 194 together form a touchscreen, also known as a "touch screen." Touch sensor 180K is used to detect touch operations applied to or near it. The touch sensor can then transmit the detected touch operation to the application processor to determine the type of touch event.

[0289] The bone conduction sensor 180M can acquire vibration signals.

[0290] Buttons 190 include a power button, volume buttons, etc. Buttons 190 can be mechanical buttons or touch-sensitive buttons. The smart device 100 can receive button input and generate key signal inputs related to user settings and function control of the smart device 100.

[0291] Motor 191 can generate vibration alerts.

[0292] Indicator 192 can be an indicator light, used to indicate charging status, power changes, or to indicate messages, missed calls, notifications, etc.

[0293] The SIM card interface 195 is used to connect a SIM card. The SIM card can be inserted into or removed from the SIM card interface 195 to achieve contact and separation with the smart device 100. The smart device 100 can support one or N SIM card interfaces, where N is a positive integer greater than 1. In some embodiments, the smart device 100 uses an eSIM, i.e., an embedded SIM card. The eSIM card can be embedded in the smart device 100 and cannot be separated from it.

[0294] Example 1

[0295] In router-based network configuration scenarios, after the main router discovers an electronic device (e.g., a sub-router) to be configured, it sends the name of its own Wi-Fi network and / or the configuration request response message to the sub-router via ultra-low power. The sub-router can only receive the Wi-Fi network name and / or the configuration request response message sent by the main router via ultra-low power when it is sufficiently close to the main router (e.g., within a certain distance). After receiving the Wi-Fi network name and the configuration request response message, the sub-router negotiates with the main router to transmit the Wi-Fi password. This way, after the sub-router obtains the Wi-Fi network name and password, the user does not need to manually intervene with the main router; simply placing the sub-router near the main router will automatically connect it, improving the user experience.

[0296] It should be noted that in the network configuration method provided in this application embodiment, the main router only sends probe response messages to the sub-router at ultra-low power during the process of establishing a network connection between the sub-router and the main router. After the sub-router and the main router confirm the establishment of the network connection, the main router no longer sends message frames to the sub-router at ultra-low power, but instead sends message frames at normal power. The ultra-low power is less than the normal power.

[0297] After a sub-router connects to the main router, the two routers will undergo a parameter information negotiation and synchronization process to ensure that the sub-router's parameter information is consistent with that of the main router. This allows the sub-router to form a mesh network with the main router. The parameter information includes one or more of the following: the frequency band of the wireless network, the channel type, the data transmission rate, etc. Other parameters may also be included, but these will not be listed here.

[0298] like Figure 7 As shown, Figure 7 A flowchart of a power distribution method provided in Embodiment 1 of this application is shown as an example.

[0299] S701-S703 is the process by which the main router discovers the devices to be networked.

[0300] S704-S706 describes the process by which sub-router 3 confirms and establishes a network connection with the main router.

[0301] In the S707, sub-router 3 and the main router negotiate and pass the password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located.

[0302] S701, Sub-router 3 is enabled, and Sub-router 3 is in network configuration mode.

[0303] S701 is similar to S201. For details, please refer to the relevant description in S201. The embodiments of this application will not be repeated here.

[0304] S702. When sub-router 3 is in the network configuration state, sub-router 3 sends probe request frame 1.

[0305] S702 is similar to S202. For details, please refer to the relevant description in S202. The embodiments of this application will not be repeated here.

[0306] S703: The main router receives and responds to probe request frame 1, discovers the device to be networked, and the indicator light on the main router flashes.

[0307] S703 is similar to S203. For details, please refer to the relevant description in S203. The embodiments of this application will not be repeated here.

[0308] S704. In response to the probe request frame 1 sent by sub-router 3, the master router sends a probe response frame 1 to sub-router 3 at very low power. Accordingly, sub-router 3 receives the probe response frame 1.

[0309] S704 is similar to S204 in general, the difference being that in S704, the main router sends probe response frame 1 to sub-router 3 at ultra-low power, while in S204, the main router sends probe response frame 1 to sub-router 3 at normal power, where normal power is greater than ultra-low power. For a detailed explanation of S704, please refer to the relevant description in S204; this embodiment will not be repeated here.

[0310] In some embodiments, after the main router receives probe response frames 1 from multiple sub-routers (e.g., sub-router 2 and sub-router 3) simultaneously, the main router will send probe response frames 1 to each of the sub-routers (e.g., sub-router 2 and sub-router 3) at extremely low power. Only routers located within the signal coverage area that can receive the signal sent by the main router at extremely low power can receive probe response frames 1. For example, assuming that multiple sub-routers are all very close to the main router and can all receive the signal sent by the main router at extremely low power, then all multiple sub-routers can receive probe response frames 1. In this case, the main router can complete the network configuration process with multiple sub-routers simultaneously. Alternatively, assuming that sub-router 3 is very close to the main router and can receive the signal sent by the main router at extremely low power, but sub-router 2 is far from the main router and cannot receive the signal sent by the main router at extremely low power, then the main router can complete the network configuration process with sub-router 3, but cannot complete the network configuration process with sub-router 2.

[0311] Here, after receiving the probe request frame 1, the user does not need to manually intervene in the main router. Simply move the sub-router 3 close to the main router, and the main router will directly send the probe response frame 1 to the sub-router 3 at ultra-low power. This allows the sub-router 3 to automatically connect to the main router and complete network configuration, improving the user experience. It's understandable that the sub-router 3 can only receive the probe response frame 1 sent by the main router at ultra-low power if the distance between the sub-router 3 and the main router is within a certain first distance. For example, ultra-low power could be -65dB, in which case the first distance would be no greater than 30cm.

[0312] The main router sends a probe response frame 1 to the sub-router 3 at ultra-low power. On the one hand, the sub-router 3 can only receive the probe response frame 1 if it is close enough to the main router. That is, the sub-router 3 can receive the probe response frame 1 when it intends to establish a network connection with the main router, thus ensuring the reliability and security of the network connection. On the other hand, the main router can automatically complete the network configuration connection with the sub-router 3 without manual intervention (such as button operation, application operation, etc.), simplifying the network configuration process and improving the user experience.

[0313] like Figure 7A As shown, Figure 7A An example diagram illustrating the distance between sub-router 3 and the main route is shown.

[0314] The distance between sub-router 3 and the main router can be understood as the straight-line distance between sub-router 3 and the main router.

[0315] Figure 7A An exemplary diagram illustrates a cross-section of a sphere centered on the main router. This cross-section is a circle with the main router as its origin and a first distance as its radius. Specifically, sub-router 3 can only receive the first probe response frame (transmitted by the main router at extremely low power) when the straight-line distance between sub-router 3 and the main router is less than the first distance; when the straight-line distance between sub-router 3 and the main router is greater than the first distance, sub-router 3 cannot receive the first probe response frame (transmitted by the main router at extremely low power).

[0316] Next, we will explain how the main router sends probe response frames at ultra-low power.

[0317] The master router determines whether to send a message to sub-router 3 using ultra-low power based on the message type of the message sent. The master router will only send a probe response message to sub-router 3 using ultra-low power if the message type is probe response frame one and / or probe response frame two. Therefore, in S704, the master router can send probe response frame one using ultra-low power.

[0318] The main router can send out the probe response frame at ultra-low power through the radio frequency link of the main router's Wi-Fi module.

[0319] like Figure 7B As shown, Figure 7B An exemplary schematic diagram of a radio frequency link is shown. Figure 7B The schematic diagram of the radio frequency link shown is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application.

[0320] The radio frequency link consists of a digital baseband (DB), a digital-to-analog converter (DAC), a low-pass filter (LPF), and a power amplifier (PA).

[0321] In this process, the digital baseband is used to modulate the original, unmodulated (without spectrum shifting or transformation) signal emitted by the source, based on the characteristics of the carrier signal. The modulated signal is a high-frequency signal derived from the original signal. Modulation itself is a process of electrical signal transformation, which alters certain characteristic values ​​(such as amplitude, frequency, and phase) of the original signal according to the characteristics of the carrier signal, causing these characteristic values ​​to change in a regular manner.

[0322] A digital-to-analog converter is used to convert discrete digital signals into continuously changing analog signals.

[0323] A low-pass filter is used to filter signals, allowing signals below the cutoff frequency to pass through while preventing signals above the cutoff frequency from passing through.

[0324] A power amplifier is used to produce maximum power output under a given distortion rate.

[0325] The main router supplies power to the RF link via a power supply signal. The power of the power supply signal input to the RF link is a first value A. This signal is then modulated by a digital baseband converter, which converts the modulated signal from a digital signal to an analog signal. Afterward, it undergoes low-pass filtering to remove interference from other signals. A power amplifier amplifies the signal's power before it is transmitted through the router's antenna. The power of the signal transmitted through the router's antenna is a second value B. Based on the second value B, the first value A can be obtained using the following formula (1).

[0326] A = (B + equipment wall loss + antenna line loss) / magnification factor (1)

[0327] As shown in the above formula (1), B is the power of the signal transmitted by the router's antenna, that is, the signal strength around the device, A is the power of the input power supply signal of the RF link, the device wall loss is the power loss value of the RF link, the antenna line loss is the line loss of the router's antenna, and the amplification factor is the amplification factor of the power amplifier in the RF link.

[0328] In this embodiment, the ultra-low power is the second value B. Based on the second value B, the power A of the power supply signal input to the RF link can be obtained according to the above formula (1). In this way, by inputting a power supply signal with the first value A into the RF link of the router, it can be ensured that the power of the signal transmitted by the router's antenna is the second value B.

[0329] For example, if the device wall loss in the RF link is 10dB, the antenna line loss is 20dB, the amplification factor of the power amplifier in the RF link is 10, and the ultra-low power B is -65dB, then according to the above formula (1), the power A of the input power supply signal in the RF link can be obtained as -3.5dB.

[0330] It should be noted that each device has different wall losses, antenna line losses, and power amplifier amplification capabilities, so the power A of the input power supply signal in the RF link will also be different.

[0331] In some embodiments, to enable the main router to transmit messages at ultra-low power, this can be achieved by adjusting the transmit power level of the main router's radio frequency link to the first level. This allows the main router to transmit the probe response frame at ultra-low power via the radio frequency link. Table 1 exemplifies a possible implementation of the correspondence between router transmit power level and power supply signal in the radio frequency link provided in this application embodiment:

[0332] Table 1

[0333]

[0334] As shown in Table 1, the transmit power control (TPC) power levels are the power levels of the radio frequency (RF) link. Table 1 shows the power supply signal power in the RF link, categorized into 5GHz band power supply signal power and 2.4GHz band power supply signal power. As described in the foregoing embodiments, a router can include one or more antennas. Table 1 exemplarily illustrates the correspondence between the transmit power levels and the power supply signal power in the RF link when a router includes two transmit antennas. One antenna is used to transmit signals in the 5GHz band, and the other antenna is used to transmit signals in the 2.4GHz band. It is understood that a router can also include only one antenna, which can be time-division multiplexed, i.e., transmitting signals in the 5GHz band and the 2.4GHz band through this single antenna in a time-division manner. The following embodiments of this application illustrate a router using two antennas to transmit signals in the 5GHz band and the 2.4GHz band respectively.

[0335] For example, if the device wall loss in the RF link of the router is 60dB, the amplification factor of the amplifier in the RF link is 20, the antenna line loss of the antenna used to transmit signals in the 5GHz band of the router is 85dB, and the antenna line loss of the antenna used to transmit signals in the 2.4GHz band of the router is 65dB, then the transmitted signal power can be calculated based on the power of the power supply signal in the RF link using formula (1).

[0336] When the TPC power level of the RF link is TPC_POW_TH_0, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 0dB / 0dB. Specifically, when the power supply signal power in the RF link is a 5GHz band power supply signal, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 0dB. According to formula (1), the power of the router's antenna transmission signal can be calculated to be -145dB. When the power supply signal power in the RF link is a 2.4GHz band power supply signal, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 0dB. According to formula (1), the power of the router's antenna transmission signal can be calculated to be -125dB.

[0337] When the TPC power level of the RF link is TPC_POW_TH_1, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 4dB / 3dB. Specifically, when the power supply signal power in the RF link is a 5GHz band power supply signal, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 4dB. According to formula (1), the power of the router's antenna transmission signal can be calculated to be -65dB. When the power supply signal power in the RF link is a 2.4GHz band power supply signal, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 3dB. According to formula (1), the power of the router's antenna transmission signal can be calculated to be -65dB.

[0338] When the TPC power level of the RF link is TPC_POW_TH_2, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 8dB / 6dB. Specifically, when the power supply signal power in the RF link is a 5GHz band power supply signal, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 8dB. According to formula (1), the power of the router's antenna transmission signal can be calculated to be 15dB. When the power supply signal power in the RF link is a 2.4GHz band power supply signal, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 6dB. According to formula (1), the power of the router's antenna transmission signal can be calculated to be -5dB.

[0339] When the TPC power level of the RF link is TPC_POW_TH_3, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 12dB / 9dB. Specifically, when the power supply signal power in the RF link is a 5GHz band power supply signal, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 12dB. According to formula (1), the power of the router's antenna transmission signal can be calculated to be 95dB. When the power supply signal power in the RF link is a 2.4GHz band power supply signal, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 9dB. According to formula (1), the power of the router's antenna transmission signal can be calculated to be 55dB.

[0340] When the TPC power level of the RF link is TPC_POW_TH_4, the power of the power supply signal in the RF link is 14.4 / 12dB. When the power supply signal in the RF link is a power supply signal in the 5GHz band, the power of the power supply signal in the RF link is 14.4dB. According to formula (1), the power of the antenna transmission signal of the router can be calculated to be 143dB. When the power supply signal in the RF link is a power supply signal in the 2.4GHz band, the power of the power supply signal in the RF link is 12dB. According to formula (1), the power of the antenna transmission signal of the router can be calculated to be 115dB.

[0341] It should be noted that the embodiments of this application only exemplify some of the TPC power levels of the radio frequency link and the magnitude of the power supply signal corresponding to the TPC power level. The radio frequency link may also include more TPC power levels, or include TPC power level division / design / naming methods different from those in Table 1. These will not be listed one by one in this application.

[0342] In addition, it should be noted that, since the circuit composition of different RF links is different, Table 1 only shows the relationship between the TPC power level and the power supply signal in the RF link as an example. The relationship between the TPC power level and the power supply signal in the RF link may be different from that in Table 1, and this application does not limit it here.

[0343] In one implementation, when the master router needs to send out probe response frames (e.g., probe response frame one) at ultra-low power, the master router can control the TPC power level of the RF link to TPC_POW_TH_1. When the TPC power level is TPC_POW_TH_1, the power supply signal power in the RF link is 4dB / 3dB, and the frequency of the RF link's transmitted signal is ultra-low power (e.g., -65dB).

[0344] S705, Sub-router 3 receives and responds to the probe response frame 1 sent by the master router at very low power, and Sub-router 3 sends probe request frame 2 to the master router. Correspondingly, the master router receives probe request frame 2.

[0345] S705 is similar to S205. For details, please refer to the relevant description in S205. The embodiments of this application will not be repeated here.

[0346] S706: Receive and respond to probe request frame two. The main router sends probe response frame two to the sub-router 3 at very low power. Correspondingly, the sub-router 3 receives probe response frame two.

[0347] S706 and S207 are similar in general, the difference being that in S706, the main router sends probe response frame two to sub-router 3 at ultra-low power, while in S207, the main router sends probe response frame two to sub-router 3 at normal power, where normal power is greater than ultra-low power. For a detailed explanation of S706, please refer to the relevant description in S207; this embodiment will not be repeated here.

[0348] The master router will only send a probe response message to the child router 3 at extremely low power when the message type is probe response. The probe response message can include probe response frame two. Therefore, in S706, the master router can send probe response frame two out at extremely low power.

[0349] The main router can transmit the probe response frame two at ultra-low power via the radio frequency link of the Wi-Fi module. Specifically, how the main router transmits the probe response frame two at ultra-low power via the radio frequency link of the Wi-Fi module can be found in the relevant description in S704, which will not be repeated here.

[0350] In some embodiments, the main router receives and responds to probe request frame two by sending probe response frame two at extremely low power. If the distance between sub-router 3 and the main router exceeds a first distance, sub-router 3 will not receive the probe response frame two sent by the main router at extremely low power. If, after a period of time, sub-router 3 still has not connected to the main router, the main router can receive and respond to the first user operation and send probe response frame two at normal power. Therefore, even if the distance between sub-router 3 and the main router exceeds the first distance (e.g., 30cm), it can still receive the probe response frame two sent by the main router at normal power if it is within a second distance (e.g., 100cm). After receiving probe response frame two, sub-router 3 can complete the network configuration process with the main router.

[0351] The first user action can be a user's trigger action on the main router's network configuration key (e.g., pressing it).

[0352] Optionally, the network configuration key can be a "Hi key" or a "WPS key", etc. This application does not limit the name of the network configuration key.

[0353] The type of network distribution key can be push-button, rotary, or toggle-type; this application does not limit the type of network distribution key.

[0354] In another implementation, the network configuration button can also be a virtual button on a terminal device (such as a mobile phone). The user operates the router's network configuration settings interface so that the main router will send out the probe response frame two at normal power.

[0355] The first user action can also be other actions, which are not limited in this application.

[0356] S707, Sub-router 3 negotiates with the main router to pass the password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located.

[0357] S707 is similar to S208. For details, please refer to the relevant description in S208. The embodiments of this application will not be repeated here.

[0358] Figure 8 The flowchart of another power distribution method provided in Embodiment 1 of this application is shown as an example.

[0359] Figure 8 The embodiments shown are generally similar to Figure 7 The illustrated embodiment is similar, except that in S806, the main router sends the second probe response frame at normal power. Thus, after receiving the first probe response frame sent by the main router at extremely low power, even if the distance between the sub-router 3 and the main router is not within the first distance, the sub-router 3 can still receive the second probe response frame sent by the main router at normal power. Therefore, during the network configuration process with the main router, after receiving the first probe response frame, the sub-router 3 no longer needs to remain close to the main router, compared to... Figure 7 The implementation can reduce the time that sub-router 3 must be in a state close to the main route.

[0360] In other words, after the main router detects sub-router 3 in a pending network configuration state, the main router sends a probe response frame one at extremely low power. If the distance between sub-router 3 and the main router is within the first distance, sub-router 3 can receive the probe response frame one sent by the main router at extremely low power. After receiving the probe response frame one, sub-router 3 sends a probe request frame two to the main router. In response to the probe request frame two sent by sub-router 3, the main router can stop sending the probe response frame two at extremely low power and instead send it at normal power. Normal power is greater than extremely low power, so even if the distance between sub-router 3 and the main router is greater than the first distance after sub-router 3 receives the probe response frame one, sub-router 3 can still receive the probe response frame two. In this way, during the network configuration process with the main router, after receiving the probe response frame one, sub-router 3 no longer needs to remain in a state close to the main router, compared to... Figure 7 The implementation can reduce the time that sub-router 3 must be in a state close to the main route.

[0361] Figure 9 The flowchart of another power distribution method provided in Embodiment 1 of this application is shown as an example.

[0362] Figure 9 The embodiments shown are generally similar to Figure 7 The illustrated embodiment is similar, except that in S904, the main router sends the probe response frame one at normal power. This way, the sub-router 3 does not need to be close to the main router during the time it receives the probe response frame two, compared to... Figure 7 The implementation can reduce the time that sub-router 3 must be in a state close to the main route.

[0363] In other words, after the main router detects the sub-router 3 in the pending network configuration state, the main router can send the probe response frame 1 at normal power instead of ultra-low power. Normal power is greater than ultra-low power. Even if the distance between sub-router 3 and the main router is not within the first distance, sub-router 3 can still receive the probe response frame 1 sent by the main router at ultra-low power. After receiving the probe response frame 1, sub-router 3 sends a probe request frame 2 to the main router. In response to the probe request frame 2 sent by sub-router 3, the main router can send the probe response frame 2 at ultra-low power. Sub-router 3 can only receive the probe response frame 2 if the distance between it and the main router is within the first distance. In this way, sub-router 3 does not need to be close to the main router when it is not receiving the probe response frame 2, compared to... Figure 7 The implementation can reduce the time that sub-router 3 must be in a state close to the main route.

[0364] Depend on Figures 7-9 As shown in the embodiments, in the network configuration method provided in this application, at least one of the one or more probe response type messages sent by the main router to the sub-router 3 needs to be sent with ultra-low power. For example, at least one of probe response frame one and probe response frame two needs to be sent with ultra-low power. Therefore, the sub-router 3 can only receive this probe response type message sent with ultra-low power when it intends to actively approach the main router and establish a network connection. Furthermore, only when the sub-router 3 receives this probe response type message sent with ultra-low power can subsequent steps be executed, and the sub-router 3 can join the wireless local area network where the main router is located.

[0365] Figure 10 A flowchart of another power distribution method provided in Embodiment 1 of this application is shown as an example.

[0366] S1001, Sub-router 3 is enabled, and Sub-router 3 is in network configuration mode.

[0367] S1001 is similar to S201. For details, please refer to the relevant description in S201. The embodiments of this application will not be repeated here.

[0368] S1002. When sub-router 3 is in network configuration mode, sub-router 3 sends a probe request frame. Correspondingly, the main router receives the probe request frame.

[0369] The probe request frame can be probe request frame one. Probe request frame one is used to allow other nearby devices to discover sub-route 3.

[0370] When the probe request frame is Probe Request Frame 1, Sub-router 3 broadcasts Probe Request Frame 1. If the main router is within the coverage area of ​​the signal transmitted by Sub-router 3, the main router receives and responds to Probe Request Frame 1, discovering the device to be networked, and the indicator light on the main router flashes. The flashing indicator light on the main router serves as a notification to the user that the main router has discovered the device to be networked.

[0371] It should be noted that this application embodiment does not limit the form in which the main router responds to the received probe request frame one. The main router may respond to the received probe request frame one by flashing an indicator light, or the main router may respond to the received probe request frame one in other forms, or the main router may not respond to the received probe request frame one in a visible form, or the main router may not respond to the received probe request frame one, and so on.

[0372] The probe request frame one can be Figure 7 In the embodiment, in S702, the sub-router 3 sends a probe request frame 1 to the main router.

[0373] The probe request frame one could also be Figure 8 In the embodiment, in S802, sub-router 3 sends a probe request frame 1 to the main router.

[0374] The probe request frame one could also be Figure 9 In the embodiment, S902 is the probe request frame 1 sent by sub-router 3 to the main router.

[0375] When the probe request frame is probe request frame one, S1002 is similar to S202. For a specific explanation of S1002, please refer to the relevant description in S202. The embodiments of this application will not be repeated here.

[0376] The probe request frame can also be probe request frame two. Probe request frame two is used by sub-router 3 to initiate a request to the master router to establish a network connection.

[0377] The second probe request frame can be Figure 7 In the embodiment, S705 is the probe request frame 2 sent by sub-router 3 to the main router.

[0378] The second probe request frame could also be... Figure 8 In the embodiment, in S805, sub-router 3 sends probe request frame 2 to the main router.

[0379] The second probe request frame could also be... Figure 9 In the embodiment, S905 is the probe request frame 2 sent by sub-router 3 to the main router.

[0380] When the probe request frame is probe request frame two, S1002 is similar to S205. For a specific explanation of S1002, please refer to the relevant description in S205. The embodiments of this application will not be repeated here.

[0381] S1003. After receiving the probe request frame, the main router sends a probe response frame to the sub-router 3 at very low power. Correspondingly, the sub-router 3 receives the probe response frame.

[0382] The probe response frame can be probe response frame one. Probe response frame one is used to inform sub-router 3 that the master route has received probe request frame one.

[0383] The detection response frame can be Figure 7 In the embodiment, in S704, the main route sends a probe response frame 1 to the sub-route 3 with ultra-low power.

[0384] The detection response frame one can also be Figure 8 In the embodiment, in S804, the main route sends a probe response frame 1 to the sub-route 3 with ultra-low power.

[0385] When the probe response frame is probe response frame one, S1003 is similar to S704. For a specific explanation of S1003, please refer to the relevant description in S704. The embodiments of this application will not be repeated here.

[0386] The probe response frame can be probe response frame two. Probe response frame two is used to inform sub-router 3 that the master router agrees to establish a network connection with sub-router 3.

[0387] The second detection response frame can be Figure 7 In the embodiment, in S706, the main router sends a probe response frame 2 to the sub-router 3 with ultra-low power.

[0388] The second detection response frame could also be... Figure 9 In the embodiment, in S906, the main router sends a probe response frame 2 to the sub-router 3 with ultra-low power.

[0389] When the detection response frame is detection response frame two, S1003 is similar to S706. For a specific explanation of S1003, please refer to the relevant description in S706. The embodiments of this application will not be repeated here.

[0390] The following section describes the correspondence between probe request frame one or probe request frame two and probe response frame one or probe response frame two.

[0391] When the probe request frame in S1002 is probe request frame one, the probe response frame in S1003 can be probe response frame one.

[0392] If in S1002, the probe request frame sent by sub-router 3 is probe request frame one, and the main router receives probe request frame one, in S1003, in response to probe request frame one, the main router sends probe response frame one at ultra-low power.

[0393] Then, after S1003 occurs and before S1004 occurs, sub-router 3 receives probe response frame one sent by the master router at very low power. In response to probe response frame one, sub-router 3 sends probe request frame two to the master router.

[0394] After receiving probe request frame two, the master router responds to probe request frame two by sending probe response frame two to sub-router 3 at extremely low power in one possible implementation. In another possible implementation, the master router may also send probe response frame two to sub-router 3 at normal power. In this case, the extremely low power is less than the normal power.

[0395] When the probe request frame in S1002 is probe request frame one, the probe response frame in S1003 can be probe response frame two.

[0396] If, in S1002, the probe request frame sent by sub-router 3 is probe request frame one, and the master router receives probe request frame one, then before S1003 occurs, in one possible implementation, the master router can send probe response frame one to sub-router 3 at extremely low power. In another possible implementation, the master router can also send probe response frame one to sub-router 3 at normal power. Here, the extremely low power is less than the normal power.

[0397] Sub-router 3 receives probe response frame one from the master router. In response to probe response frame one, sub-router 3 sends probe request frame two to the master router.

[0398] Before S1003 occurs, the main router receives probe request frame 2. In S1003, in response to probe request frame 2, the main router sends probe response frame 2 to sub-router 3 at very low power.

[0399] When the probe request frame in S1002 is probe request frame two, the probe response frame in S1003 can be probe response frame two.

[0400] If, in S1002, the probe request frame sent by sub-router 3 is probe request frame two, then after S1001 and before S1002, sub-router 3 broadcasts probe request frame one. The main router receives and responds to probe request frame one, discovering the sub-router 3 to be networked, and its indicator light flashes. The flashing indicator light of the main router serves as a notification to the user that the main router has discovered the sub-router 3 to be networked. Subsequently, in one possible implementation, the main router can send probe response frame one to sub-router 3 at extremely low power. In another possible implementation, the main router can also send probe response frame one to sub-router 3 at normal power. Here, extremely low power is less than normal power.

[0401] After receiving probe response frame one, sub-router 3 sends probe request frame two to the main router in S1002.

[0402] After receiving probe request frame 2, in S1003, the main router sends probe response frame 2 to the sub-router 3 at very low power.

[0403] S1004, Sub-router 3 negotiates with the main router to pass on the password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located.

[0404] S1004 is similar to S208. For details, please refer to the relevant description in S208. The embodiments of this application will not be repeated here.

[0405] Figure 11 This example illustrates a process by which a sub-router 3 negotiates and transmits the password of the wireless local area network where the main router is located with the main router, as provided in Embodiment 1 of this application.

[0406] In some embodiments, during the process of negotiating and transmitting the password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located with the main router, the message sent by the main router to the sub-router 3 can be sent at very low power. That is, before the sub-router 3 obtains the password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located (after S706 occurs and before S1108 occurs), the sub-router 3 must always be in a state close to the main router.

[0407] In other embodiments, during the process of negotiating the password of the Wi-Fi network where the main router resides with the sub-router 3, the messages sent by the main router to the sub-router 3 can be transmitted at normal power. That is, the sub-router 3 does not need to be constantly close to the main router before it obtains the password of the Wi-Fi network where the main router resides. The following embodiments of this application illustrate the process of the main router sending messages to the sub-router 3 at normal power during the negotiation of the password of the Wi-Fi network where the main router resides with the sub-router 3.

[0408] After sub-router 3 confirms the establishment of a network connection with the main router, the main router can stop sending message frames to sub-router 3 at ultra-low power and instead send message frames at normal power. That is, in S1101-S1108, the main router can send message frames to sub-router 3 at normal power. Normal power is greater than ultra-low power. Therefore, for example, during the entire network configuration process, the user only needs to ensure that sub-router 3 is close to the main router for a short period after the main router's indicator light flashes (S703), allowing sub-router 3 and the main router to complete the steps of confirming the establishment of the network connection (S704-S706) within this short period. This short period can be a few seconds, such as less than 5 seconds. In the steps after S706, sub-router 3 and the main router can transmit message frames at normal power, and sub-router 3 does not need to remain close to the main router at all times.

[0409] S1101. The main router generates a first random number and generates a first key based on the first random number.

[0410] S1102, The main router sends the first random number to the sub-router 3.

[0411] S1103, Sub-router 3 receives the first random number and generates the second key based on the first random number.

[0412] S1104, Sub-router 3 sends the second key to the main router.

[0413] S1105. If the first key and the second key are the same, the main router determines that sub-router 3 is a trusted device.

[0414] Before sub-router 3 negotiates and transmits the password for the Wi-Fi network where the main router resides with the main router via WPS, both sub-router 3 and the main router have pre-configured protocols. The main router can use these protocols to generate a first key based on a first random number. Sub-router 3 can also use these protocols to generate a second key based on the first random number.

[0415] After the main router receives the second key sent by the sub-router 3, the main router will determine whether the first key and the second key are the same. If the main router determines that the first key and the second key are the same, then the main router determines that the sub-router 3 is a trusted device.

[0416] S1106. The main router encrypts the password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located based on the first key, and obtains the encrypted wireless LAN password.

[0417] S1107, The main router sends the encrypted Wi-Fi password to the sub-router 3.

[0418] After the main router determines that sub-router 3 is a trusted device, the main router uses the first key to encrypt the password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located, thus obtaining the encrypted wireless LAN password.

[0419] The main router sends the encrypted Wi-Fi password to the sub-router 3.

[0420] S1108 and sub-router 3 receive the encrypted wireless LAN password and decrypt it using the second key to obtain the password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located.

[0421] Sub-router 3 receives the encrypted Wi-Fi password, decrypts it using the second key, and obtains the password for the Wi-Fi network where the main router is located.

[0422] S1101–S1108 describes the process by which sub-router 3 negotiates the password for the wireless LAN where the main router is located with the main router via WPS. Sub-router 3 can also negotiate the password for the wireless LAN where the main router is located with the main router via other methods, which are not limited to this embodiment.

[0423] After sub-router 3 establishes a network connection with the main router, sub-router 3 and the main router will complete the parameter negotiation and parameter synchronization process to ensure that the parameter information of sub-router 3 is consistent with the parameter information of the main router after the network connection is established. In this way, sub-router 3 can form a mesh network with the main router.

[0424] In some embodiments, during the parameter negotiation and synchronization process between the sub-router 3 and the main router, the messages sent by the main router to the sub-router 3 may be sent at extremely low power. That is, before the sub-router 3 successfully joins the mesh network where the main router is located (after S1108 and before S1208), the sub-router 3 must always be in a state close to the main router.

[0425] In other embodiments, during the parameter negotiation and synchronization process between sub-router 3 and the main router, the messages sent by the main router to sub-router 3 can be transmitted at normal power. That is, during the parameter negotiation and synchronization process between sub-router 3 and the main router, sub-router 3 does not need to be constantly close to the main router. The following embodiments of this application illustrate the scenario where the main router sends messages to sub-router 3 at normal power during the parameter negotiation and synchronization process between sub-router 3 and the main router.

[0426] After the sub-router 3 and the main router form a mesh network, when a smart device (such as a mobile phone) switches from connecting to the sub-router 3 to connecting to the main router, there will be no interruption of the smart device's current service.

[0427] For example, a smart device (e.g., a mobile phone) is within the signal coverage area of ​​sub-router 3 and makes a video call with other devices (e.g., a tablet) through the wireless network provided by sub-router 3. When the smart device moves and falls within the signal coverage area of ​​both sub-router 3 and the main router, the smart device will switch its connection from sub-router 3 to the main router. Because sub-router 3 and the main router form a mesh network, there will be no lag issues during video calls between the smart device and other devices (e.g., a tablet) during the switching process.

[0428] The parameter information includes one or more of the following: the frequency band of the wireless network, the channel type, the data transmission rate, etc. The parameter information of the main router may also include other information, which will not be listed here in this embodiment.

[0429] like Figure 12 S1201–S1208 exemplarily illustrate a flowchart of a method for sub-router 3 to negotiate parameter information with the master route. S1201–S1208 are merely exemplary illustrations of the process by which sub-router 3 negotiates parameter information with the master route. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the process of sub-router 3 negotiating parameter information with the master route may include more or fewer steps than S1201–S1208, and this application embodiment does not impose any limitations on this. Furthermore, this application embodiment does not limit the execution order of each step in S1201–S1208.

[0430] After the sub-router and the main router confirm the establishment of the network connection (i.e., S706), the main router no longer sends message frames to sub-router 3 at ultra-low power, but instead sends message frames at normal power. That is, in S1201–S1208, the main router sends message frames to sub-router 3 at normal power. Here, ultra-low power is less than normal power.

[0431] S1201, Sub-router 3 sends a parameter negotiation request to the main router.

[0432] After sub-router 3 connects to the wireless LAN where the main router is located, sub-router 3 sends a parameter negotiation request to the main router.

[0433] S1202, The main router receives and responds to the parameter negotiation request sent by the sub-router 3, and the main router sends the first parameter type set to the sub-router 3.

[0434] The first parameter type set includes all parameter types that can be included in the main router, including but not limited to the main router's frequency band, channel type, data transmission rate, etc. The first parameter type set may also include other parameters, which are not limited herein.

[0435] S1203 After receiving the first parameter type set sent by the main router, sub-router 3 determines the third parameter type set based on the second parameter type set of sub-router 3 and the first parameter type set of the main router.

[0436] The second parameter type set of sub-router 3 can include all parameter types of sub-router 3, which can include, but are not limited to, the frequency band, channel type, and data transmission rate of sub-router 3. The second parameter type set may also include other parameters, which are not limited herein.

[0437] The third parameter type set can include parameter types shared by sub-router 3 and the main route.

[0438] Sub-router 3 determines its third parameter type set based on its second parameter type set and the main router's first parameter type set. For example, if the first parameter type set includes the main router's frequency band, channel type, and data transmission rate, etc., and the second parameter type set includes sub-router 3's frequency band, channel type, and data transmission rate, etc., then sub-router 3 determines its third parameter type set to include frequency band, channel type, and data transmission rate. Alternatively, if the first parameter type set includes the main router's frequency band, channel type, and data transmission rate, etc., and the second parameter type set includes sub-router 3's channel type and data transmission rate, etc., then sub-router 3 determines its third parameter type set to include channel type and data transmission rate.

[0439] S1204, Sub-router 3 sends the third parameter type set to the main router.

[0440] In some embodiments, in order to ensure the security of data transmission between the sub-router 3 and the main router, the sub-router 3 encrypts the third parameter type set according to the datagram transport layer security (DTLS) protocol to obtain an encrypted third parameter type set, and then sends the encrypted third parameter type set to the main router.

[0441] S1205. After receiving the third parameter type set, the main router determines the value of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set.

[0442] In some embodiments, after receiving the encrypted third parameter type set, the master router decrypts the encrypted third parameter type set based on the DTLS protocol to obtain the third parameter type set. The third parameter type set includes one or more parameters.

[0443] The main route determines the value of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set.

[0444] S1206. The main route sends the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set to the sub-route 3.

[0445] In some embodiments, the main router encrypts the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set according to the DTLS protocol and sends them to the sub-router 3.

[0446] For example, the main router encrypts the values ​​of its frequency band, channel type, and data transmission rate before sending them to the sub-router 3. For instance, the main router's frequency band could be 150MHz, 300MHz, or 450MHz; its channel type could be 2.4GHz; and its data transmission rate could be 802.11n or 802.11ac.

[0447] S1207. Sub-router 3 receives the values ​​of one or more parameters of the main route in the third parameter type set sent by the main route, and determines the common value of one or more parameters of the main route and sub-router 3 in the third parameter type set based on the values ​​of one or more parameters of the main route in the third parameter type set and the values ​​of one or more parameters of the sub-router 3 in the third parameter type set.

[0448] In some embodiments, after receiving the values ​​of one or more parameters of the main route in the third parameter type set encrypted with the DTLS protocol sent by the main route, the sub-router 3 decrypts the values ​​of one or more parameters of the main route in the third parameter type set encrypted with the DTLS protocol through the DTLS protocol to obtain the values ​​of one or more parameters of the main route in the third parameter type set.

[0449] Sub-route 3 determines the value of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set for sub-route 3.

[0450] For example, the values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set for sub-router 3 include: the frequency band values ​​for sub-router 3 include 150M, 300M, and 450M; the channel type values ​​for the main router include 2.4G and 5G; and the data transmission rate values ​​for the main router include 802.11n and 802.11ac.

[0451] Then, sub-route 3 determines the common value of one or more parameters of the main route and sub-route 3 in the third parameter type set based on the values ​​of one or more parameters of the main route and sub-route 3 in the third parameter type set.

[0452] For example, the common values ​​of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set for the main route and sub-route 3 include: frequency band values ​​of 150M, 300M and 450M; channel type value of 2.4G; and data transmission rate of 802.11n and 802.11ac.

[0453] S1208, Sub-router 3 sets the common value of one or more parameters of the main route and sub-router 3 in the third parameter type set to the value of one or more parameters of sub-router 3 in the third parameter type set.

[0454] For example, sub-router 3 sets the frequency band values ​​of sub-router 3 to 150M, 300M and 450M; the channel type value of sub-router 3 is set to 2.4G; and the data transmission rate of sub-router 3 is set to 802.11n and 802.11ac.

[0455] After sub-router 3 completes parameter negotiation and synchronization with the main router, the indicator light on the main router will remain on. This continuous illumination of the main router's indicator light serves as an indication that sub-router 3 has successfully configured its network and joined the mesh network where the main router is located.

[0456] Example 2

[0457] In a network application scenario where a smart device 100 (e.g., a mobile phone) connects to a main router, after discovering the smart device 100 to be configured on the network, the main router sends the name of its own Wi-Fi network and / or a message responding to the configuration request via ultra-low power to the smart device 100. Only when the smart device 100 is sufficiently close to the main router (e.g., within a first distance) can the smart device 100 receive the name of its own Wi-Fi network and / or the message responding to the configuration request sent by the main router via ultra-low power. After receiving the name of the main router's Wi-Fi network and the message responding to the configuration request, the smart device 100 and the main router negotiate the transmission of the password for the main router's Wi-Fi network. Thus, after obtaining the name and password of the main router's Wi-Fi network, the smart device 100 can connect to the main router. This method eliminates the need for manual intervention on the main router or manual input of the main router password on the smart device 100. Users simply need to bring the smart device 100 close to the main router (e.g., within a certain distance) to automatically connect the smart device 100 to the main router, thus improving the user experience.

[0458] In Embodiment 2, the smart device 100 only needs to obtain the name and password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located, and then connect to the wireless LAN where the main router is located. The smart device 100 does not need to complete the parameter negotiation and synchronization process with the main router because it does not need to form a mesh network with the main router. That is, the smart device 100 is always in STA mode; it only acts as an access device for the main router and does not need to be in AP mode as an access point for other devices. Therefore, the smart device 100 does not need to complete the parameter negotiation and synchronization process with the main router.

[0459] like Figure 13 As shown, Figure 13 A flowchart of a power distribution method provided in Embodiment 2 of this application is shown as an example.

[0460] S1301-S1303 is the process by which the main router discovers devices to be connected to the network.

[0461] S1304-S1306 describes the process by which the smart device 100 confirms and establishes a network connection with the main router.

[0462] In S1307, smart device 100 and the main router negotiate and transmit the password of the wireless local area network where the main router is located.

[0463] S1301, Smart device 100 receives a user's trigger operation on the first icon, and smart device 100 is in a standby network state.

[0464] The first icon is the name of the wireless local area network where the main router is located. The smart device 100 receives the user's trigger operation (such as a click operation) on the first icon, and the smart device 100 is in a standby state.

[0465] For example, such as Figure 3C As shown, the first icon can be Figure 3C The identifier "Wireless network001" in 312.

[0466] S1302. When the smart device 100 is in a network-ready state, the smart device 100 sends a probe request frame 1.

[0467] S1303, the main router receives and responds to probe request frame one, discovers the device to be connected to the network, and the indicator light on the main router flashes.

[0468] S1304. In response to the probe request frame 1 sent by the smart device 100, the main router sends a probe response frame 1 to the smart device 100 at ultra-low power. Accordingly, the smart device 100 receives the probe response frame 1.

[0469] S1305, the smart device 100 receives and responds to the probe response frame one sent by the main router at ultra-low power, and the smart device 100 sends a probe request frame two to the main router. Correspondingly, the main router receives the probe request frame two.

[0470] S1306. The main router receives and responds to probe request frame two, and sends probe response frame two to smart device 100 at ultra-low power. Accordingly, smart device 100 receives probe response frame two.

[0471] S1307, Smart Device 100 negotiates with the main router to transmit the password of the wireless local area network where the main router is located.

[0472] Figure 13 The illustrated embodiments and Figure 7 The illustrated embodiments are similar, except that, Figure 7 The illustrated embodiment describes the process of sub-router 3 establishing a network connection with the main router. Figure 13 The illustrated embodiment describes the process by which smart device 100 establishes a network connection with the main router. For Figure 13 For a detailed explanation of the embodiments shown, please refer to Figure 7 The embodiments shown are not repeated here.

[0473] like Figure 14 As shown, Figure 14 A flowchart of another power distribution method provided in Embodiment 2 of this application is shown as an example.

[0474] Figure 14 The embodiments shown are generally similar to Figure 13 The illustrated embodiment is similar, except that in S1406, the main router sends the second probe response frame at normal power. Thus, after receiving the first probe response frame sent by the main router at extremely low power, the smart device 100 can still receive the second probe response frame sent by the main router at normal power, even if the distance between the smart device 100 and the main router is not within the first distance. Therefore, during the network configuration process with the main router, the smart device 100 does not need to remain close to the main router after receiving the first probe response frame, compared to... Figure 13 The implementation can reduce the amount of time that smart device 100 must be in a state close to the main router.

[0475] Figure 14 The illustrated embodiments and Figure 8 The illustrated embodiments are similar, except that, Figure 8 The illustrated embodiment describes the process of sub-router 3 establishing a network connection with the main router. Figure 14 The illustrated embodiment describes the process by which smart device 100 establishes a network connection with the main router. For Figure 14 For a detailed explanation of the embodiments shown, please refer to Figure 8 The embodiments shown are not repeated here.

[0476] like Figure 15 As shown, Figure 15 A flowchart of another power distribution method provided in Embodiment 2 of this application is shown as an example.

[0477] Figure 15 The embodiments shown are generally similar to Figure 13 The illustrated embodiment is similar, except that in S1504, the main router sends the probe response frame one at normal power. This way, the smart device 100 does not need to be near the main router during times other than when receiving the probe response frame two, compared to... Figure 13 The implementation can reduce the amount of time that smart device 100 must be in a state close to the main router.

[0478] Figure 15 The illustrated embodiments and Figure 9 The illustrated embodiments are similar, except that, Figure 9 The illustrated embodiment describes the process of sub-router 3 establishing a network connection with the main router. Figure 15 The illustrated embodiment describes the process by which smart device 100 establishes a network connection with the main router. For Figure 15 For a detailed explanation of the embodiments shown, please refer to Figure 9 The embodiments shown are not repeated here.

[0479] Depend on Figures 13-15 As shown in the embodiments, in the network configuration method provided in this application, at least one of the one or more probe response type messages sent by the main router to the smart device 100 needs to be sent with ultra-low power. For example, at least one of probe response frame one and probe response frame two needs to be sent with ultra-low power. Therefore, the smart device 100 can only receive this probe response type message sent with ultra-low power when it intends to actively approach the main router and establish a network connection. Furthermore, only when the smart device 100 receives this probe response type message sent with ultra-low power can subsequent steps be executed, and the smart device 100 can join the wireless local area network where the main router is located.

[0480] Figure 16 A flowchart of another power distribution method provided in Embodiment 2 of this application is shown as an example.

[0481] S1601, Smart device 100 receives a user's trigger operation on the first icon, and smart device 100 is in a standby network state.

[0482] S1602. When the smart device 100 is in the network configuration state, the smart device 100 sends a probe request frame. Correspondingly, the main router receives the probe request frame.

[0483] S1603. After receiving the probe request frame, the main router sends a probe response frame to the smart device 100 at very low power. Accordingly, the smart device 100 receives the probe response frame.

[0484] S1604, Smart Device 100 negotiates with the main router to transmit the password of the wireless local area network where the main router is located.

[0485] Figure 16 The illustrated embodiments and Figure 10 The illustrated embodiments are similar, except that, Figure 10 The illustrated embodiment describes the process of sub-router 3 establishing a network connection with the main router. Figure 16 The illustrated embodiment describes the process by which smart device 100 establishes a network connection with the main router. For Figure 16 For a detailed explanation of the embodiments shown, please refer to Figure 10 The embodiments shown are not repeated here.

[0486] Figure 17 This example illustrates the process by which a smart device 100 negotiates and transmits the password of the wireless local area network where the main router is located with a main router, according to Embodiment 2 of this application.

[0487] After the smart device 100 confirms the connection with the main router, the main router can stop sending message frames to the smart device 100 at ultra-low power and instead send message frames at normal power. That is, in S1701-S1708, the main router can send message frames to the smart device 100 at normal power. Normal power is greater than ultra-low power. Therefore, for example, during the entire network configuration process, the user only needs to ensure that the smart device 100 is close to the main router for a short period after the main router's indicator light flashes (S1303), allowing the smart device 100 and the main router to complete the connection confirmation step (S1304-S1306) within this short period. This short period can be a few seconds, such as less than 5 seconds. In the steps after S1306, the smart device 100 and the main router can transmit message frames at normal power, and the smart device 100 does not need to remain close to the main router at all times.

[0488] S1701. The main router generates a first random number and generates a first key based on the first random number.

[0489] S1702, The main router sends the first random number to the smart device 100.

[0490] S1703, Smart device 100 receives a first random number and generates a second key based on the first random number.

[0491] S1704, Smart Device 100 sends the second key to the main router.

[0492] S1705. If the first key and the second key are the same, the main router determines that smart device 100 is a trusted device.

[0493] S1706. The main router encrypts the password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located based on the first key, thus obtaining the encrypted wireless LAN password.

[0494] S1707, The main router sends the encrypted wireless LAN password to the smart device 100.

[0495] S1708, Smart Device 100 receives the encrypted wireless LAN password, decrypts the encrypted wireless LAN password according to the second key, and obtains the password of the wireless LAN where the main router is located.

[0496] Smart device 100 obtains the password of the Wi-Fi network where the main router is located. Smart device 100 then connects to the Wi-Fi network based on the name and password of the main router. Smart device 100 does not need to complete parameter negotiation and synchronization with the main router because it does not need to form a mesh network with the main router. That is, smart device 100 is always in STA mode; it only acts as an access device for the main router and does not need to be in AP mode as an access point for other devices. Therefore, smart device 100 does not need to complete parameter negotiation and synchronization with the main router.

[0497] Figure 17 The illustrated embodiments and Figure 11 The illustrated embodiments are similar, except that, Figure 11 The illustrated embodiment describes the process by which sub-router 3 negotiates and transmits the password for the wireless local area network where the main router resides with the main router. Figure 17 The illustrated embodiment describes the process by which the smart device 100 negotiates and transmits the password for the wireless local area network (WLAN) where the main router resides. For Figure 17 For a detailed explanation of the embodiments shown, please refer to Figure 11 The embodiments shown are not repeated here.

[0498] like Figure 18 As shown, Figure 18 This is a schematic flowchart of a power distribution method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0499] S1801, The electronic device sends a probe request frame.

[0500] The electronic device can be either sub-router 3 or smart device 100.

[0501] Smart device 100 can be a smart home device, which can be any of the following: smart light, smart oven, smart fan, smart air conditioner, smart TV, smart large screen, smart bracelet, smart watch, smart speaker, smart refrigerator, smart door and window, smart car, smart monitor, smart robot, smart camera, etc.

[0502] Smart device 100 can also be a terminal device, which can be any of the following: mobile phone, tablet computer, smart screen, desktop computer, laptop computer, handheld computer, notebook computer, ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), netbook.

[0503] S1802, The wireless access device receives and responds to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sends a probe response frame to the electronic device at a first power through the first antenna.

[0504] The wireless access device can be the main router.

[0505] For details on how wireless access devices send probe response frames to electronic devices via a first antenna at a first power (ultra-low power), please refer to [reference needed]. Figures 7A-7B The embodiments shown are not repeated here.

[0506] Optionally, the probe request frame includes a first probe request frame (probe request frame one) and a second probe request frame (probe request frame two), and the probe response frame includes a first probe response frame and a second probe response frame. The electronic device sending the probe request frame includes: the electronic device sending the first probe request frame. The wireless access device receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending a probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power, includes: the wireless access device receiving and responding to the first probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending the first probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power. The electronic device sending the probe request frame further includes: the electronic device receiving and responding to the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device, and sending the second probe request frame to the wireless access device. The wireless access device receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending the probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power, further includes: the wireless access device receiving and responding to the second probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending the second probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power. That is, during network configuration, the wireless access device transmits the first probe response frame and the second response frame at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power). During network configuration, the electronic device must be sufficiently close to the wireless access device (e.g., within a first distance) for the electronic device to receive the first probe response frame and the second response frame. For details, please refer to... Figure 7 and Figure 13 The embodiments shown are not repeated here.

[0507] Optionally, the probe request frame includes a first probe request frame, and the probe response frame includes a first probe response frame. The electronic device sending the probe request frame includes: the electronic device sending the first probe request frame. The wireless access device receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending a probe response frame to the electronic device via a first antenna at a first power, includes: the wireless access device receiving and responding to the first probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending the first probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at a first power. Before the electronic device and the wireless access device establish a wireless LAN connection, the method further includes: the electronic device receiving and responding to the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device, and sending a second probe request frame to the wireless access device; the wireless access device receiving and responding to the second probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending the second probe response frame to the electronic device via a second antenna at a second power (normal power). That is, the wireless access device only transmits the first probe response frame at an ultra-low power (e.g., the first power). In this way, during the network configuration process with the wireless access device, after receiving the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device at the first power, the electronic device no longer needs to remain close to the wireless access device, thus reducing the time the electronic device must remain close to the main router during the network configuration process. For details, please refer to... Figure 8 and Figure 14 The embodiments shown are not repeated here.

[0508] Optionally, the probe request frame includes a second probe request frame, and the probe response frame includes a second probe response frame. Before the electronic device sends the probe request frame, the electronic device sends a first probe request frame. The wireless access device receives and responds to the first probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sends a first probe response frame to the electronic device via a second antenna at a second power. The electronic device sending the probe request frame includes: the electronic device receiving and responding to the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device, and sending a second probe request frame to the wireless access device. The wireless access device receiving and responding to the probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending a probe response frame to the electronic device via a first antenna at a first power, includes: the wireless access device receiving and responding to the second probe request frame sent by the electronic device, and sending a second probe response frame to the electronic device via a first antenna at a first power. That is, the wireless access device only transmits the second probe response frame at an ultra-low power (e.g., the first power). In this way, the electronic device does not need to be close to the wireless access device during times other than when receiving the second probe response frame, reducing the time the electronic device must be close to the wireless access device. For details, please refer to... Figure 9 and Figure 15 The embodiments shown are not repeated here.

[0509] Optionally, the first probe request frame includes a network configuration information cell of the electronic device; the first probe response frame includes a basic service set identifier of the wireless access device; and the second probe request frame includes a basic service set identifier of the wireless access device. The second probe response frame includes a cryptographic transmission mode negotiation capability identifier and a media access control bit address of the electronic device. The first probe request frame is used by other electronic devices near the electronic device to discover the electronic device in the network configuration state. The first probe request frame can be sent by the electronic device in a broadcast manner. In one possible implementation, the electronic device periodically sends the first probe request frame. The electronic device will stop sending the first probe request frame only after receiving the first probe response frame.

[0510] The first probe request frame is used by other electronic devices in the vicinity of the electronic device to detect the electronic device in the pending network state. The first probe request frame can be sent by the electronic device in the form of broadcast.

[0511] Optionally, the electronic device periodically sends the first probe request frame. The electronic device will only stop sending the first probe request frame after it receives the first probe response frame.

[0512] Optionally, before the wireless access device sends a probe response frame to the electronic device via the first antenna at the first power, the wireless access device's network configuration indicator light flashes only after it receives the first probe request frame. In this way, the flashing of the wireless access device's network configuration indicator light serves as a notification to the user that the wireless access device has detected a device in a network configuration pending state.

[0513] Optionally, before sending the first probe request frame, if the electronic device is a terminal device, the electronic device displays a first user interface, the first user interface including a first icon; the electronic device receives a second operation by the user on the first icon in the first user interface; and the electronic device sends the first probe request frame in response to the second operation.

[0514] Optionally, before sending the first probe request frame, if the electronic device is a wireless access device or a smart home device, it receives a first operation from the user on a first button on the electronic device; in response to the first operation, the electronic device sends a first probe request frame to the wireless access device.

[0515] The first probe response frame is used to inform the electronic device that the wireless access device has detected an electronic device in a network configuration state. The first probe response frame can be sent by the wireless access device in unicast form.

[0516] In one possible implementation, the wireless access device periodically sends a first probe response frame. Each time the wireless access device receives a first probe request frame, it sends a first probe response frame.

[0517] The second probe request frame is used by an electronic device to send a connection establishment request to a wireless access device. The second probe request frame can be sent by the electronic device in unicast format.

[0518] Optionally, the electronic device periodically sends the second probe request frame. The electronic device will only stop sending the second probe request frame after it receives the second probe response frame.

[0519] The second probe response frame is used to inform the electronic device that the wireless access device agrees to establish a connection with the electronic device. The second probe response frame can be sent by the wireless access device in the form of unicast.

[0520] Optionally, if the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device exceeds the first distance, the electronic device will not receive the second probe response frame sent by the wireless access device at excessive power. In this case, the wireless access device can receive and respond to the first user operation (e.g., pressing the network configuration button) and send the second probe response frame out at normal power. Thus, even if the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device exceeds the first distance, the electronic device can still receive the second probe response frame sent by the wireless access device at normal power (i.e., the second power).

[0521] S1803. After receiving the probe response frame, the electronic device establishes a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device.

[0522] After receiving a probe response frame but before establishing a wireless LAN connection with the wireless access device, the wireless access device and the electronic device negotiate and determine a first key. The wireless access device encrypts the password of its wireless LAN using the first key, obtaining an encrypted password, and sends the encrypted password to the electronic device. Upon receiving the encrypted password, the electronic device decrypts it using the first key, obtaining the password of the wireless LAN where the wireless access device is located. The electronic device then establishes a wireless LAN connection with the wireless access device based on the password of the wireless LAN where the wireless access device is located.

[0523] Optionally, the wireless access device and the electronic device may negotiate and determine a first key, which may include the following steps: before the wireless access device and the electronic device negotiate and determine the first key, a first random number is generated; the wireless access device generates a key one (first key) based on the first random number; the wireless access device sends the first random number to the electronic device; after receiving the first random number, the electronic device generates a key two (second key) based on the first random number; the electronic device further sends the key two to the wireless access device; after determining that key one and key two are the same, the wireless access device uses key one as the first key. In this way, the electronic device and the wireless access device transmit the password of the wireless local area network (WLAN) where the wireless access device is located through the first key, ensuring the security of information transmission between the electronic device and the wireless access device and preventing the leakage of the WLAN password. For details, please refer to... Figure 11 and Figure 17 The embodiments shown are not repeated here.

[0524] Optionally, if the electronic device is a router, after establishing a wireless LAN connection with the wireless access device, the electronic device and the wireless access device negotiate and synchronize parameter information; wherein, the parameter information includes one or more of the following: the frequency band of the wireless access device, the channel type of the wireless access device, and the data transmission rate of the wireless access device.

[0525] In one possible implementation, the electronic device and the wireless access device synchronize parameter information through negotiation, which may include the following steps: After establishing a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, the electronic device sends a parameter negotiation request to the wireless access device. In response to the parameter negotiation request, the wireless access device sends a first parameter type set to the electronic device. The electronic device is further configured to receive the first parameter type set and determine a third parameter type set based on the first and second parameter type sets. The third parameter type set includes one or more parameters. The electronic device sends the identifiers of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set to the wireless access device. The wireless access device receives the identifiers of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set. The wireless access device determines the value of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set based on the identifiers of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set. The wireless access device sends the value of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set to the electronic device. The electronic device is further configured to receive the value of one or more parameters in the third parameter type set from the wireless access device. The electronic device is further used to determine the common value of one or more parameters of the third parameter type between the electronic device and the wireless access device based on the values ​​of one or more parameters of the third parameter type in the electronic device and the wireless access device in the third parameter type set. The common value of one or more parameters of the third parameter type between the electronic device and the wireless access device is set as the value of one or more parameters of the third parameter type of the electronic device. This ensures that after the electronic device and the wireless access device establish a network connection, the parameter information of the electronic device is consistent with the parameter information of the wireless access device, so that the electronic device can form a mesh network with the wireless access device. For details, please refer to... Figure 12 The embodiments shown are not repeated here.

[0526] Optionally, after the electronic device and the wireless access device establish a wireless LAN connection, the network configuration indicator light on the wireless access device can remain on as a prompt to indicate to the user that the device in the network configuration standby state has successfully configured with the wireless access device.

[0527] S1804. After establishing a wireless local area network connection between the electronic device and the wireless access device, the wireless access device sends data frames to the electronic device at a second power via a second antenna.

[0528] In other words, the wireless access device only transmits specific information (such as probe response frames) through the first antenna at the first power (ultra-low power) during the network configuration process. After the wireless access device establishes a wireless LAN connection with the electronic device, it transmits data frames to the electronic device through the second antenna at the second power (normal power).

[0529] The first antenna and the second antenna can be the same antenna or two separate antennas, with the first power being less than the second power.

[0530] When the first antenna and the second antenna are the same antenna, this single antenna needs to be time-division multiplexed. For a specific description of the antenna, please refer to the description of antenna 504 in section 5; the embodiments in this application will not be repeated here.

[0531] Optionally, the coverage area of ​​the signal transmitted by the wireless access device through the first antenna at a first power is smaller than the coverage area of ​​the signal transmitted by the wireless access device through the second antenna at a second power. The wireless access device only transmits probe response frames at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power) during network configuration. Thus, the probe response frames transmitted by the wireless access device at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power) can only be received when the electronic device and the wireless access device are sufficiently close.

[0532] Optionally, if the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than a first distance, the electronic device is positioned to receive probe response frames and data frames; if the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is greater than the first distance, the electronic device is positioned to receive data frames but not probe response frames. Thus, during the network configuration process, only when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is sufficiently close (e.g., within the first distance) can the electronic device be considered to have the intention to join the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located, and only then can the electronic device complete the network configuration process with the wireless access device.

[0533] Optionally, when the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than a first distance, and the electronic device remains stationary, the power of the probe response frame received by the electronic device is lower than the power of the data frame received by the electronic device. Thus, during network configuration, the wireless access device transmits probe response frames at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power), ensuring that only electronic devices close to the wireless access device can receive the probe response frames. After network configuration is complete, if the electronic device remains stationary, at the same location, the electronic device receives data frames transmitted by the wireless access device at normal power (i.e., the second power). The power of the probe response frame received by the electronic device is lower than the power of the received data frame.

[0534] Optionally, when the wireless access device transmits a probe response frame at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power), the power of the power supply signal of the radio frequency link in the wireless access device is the third power. When the wireless access device transmits a data frame at normal power (i.e., the second power), the power of the power supply signal of the radio frequency link in the wireless access device is the fourth power. The third power is less than the fourth power.

[0535] This method offers two key advantages. First, it eliminates the need for manual intervention from the user or manual input of the main router password on the electronic device. The user simply needs to bring the electronic device close enough (e.g., within a first distance) for the device to automatically establish a wireless LAN connection, simplifying the process. Second, the wireless access device only transmits messages to the connected electronic devices at ultra-low power (i.e., the first power) during the network configuration process. Simultaneously, the wireless access device can transmit messages at normal power (i.e., the second power) to other connected electronic devices. This ensures that the normal operations of other connected electronic devices are not affected.

[0536] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.< / canvas> < / video> < / videoview> < / imgview> < / textview>

Claims

1. A network configuration method, the method being applied to a system including an electronic device and a wireless access device, characterized by, The method comprises: The electronic device receives and responds to a user operation, and sends a first probe request frame, wherein the first probe request frame comprises a network configuration information element of the electronic device; The wireless access device receives and responds to the first probe request frame, and sends a first probe response frame to the electronic device through a first antenna at a first power, wherein the first probe response frame comprises a basic service set identification of the wireless access device; The electronic device receives and responds to the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device, and sends a second probe request frame to the wireless access device, wherein the second probe request frame comprises a basic service set identification of the wireless access device; The wireless access device receives and responds to the second probe request frame, and sends a second probe response frame to the electronic device through a second antenna at a second power, wherein the second probe response frame comprises a password transmission mode negotiation capability identification and a media access control bit address of the electronic device; The electronic device establishes a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device after receiving the second probe response frame; The wireless access device sends a data frame to the electronic device through the second antenna at the second power after the electronic device establishes the wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device; The first antenna and the second antenna are the same antenna or two antennas, and the first power is less than the second power.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The coverage range of the signal sent by the wireless access device through the first antenna at the first power is less than the coverage range of the signal sent by the wireless access device through the second antenna at the second power.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, In the case that the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than a first distance, the electronic device is in a position that can receive the first probe response frame and the data frame; In the case that the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is greater than the first distance, the electronic device is in a position that cannot receive the first probe response frame but can receive the data frame.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, In the case that the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than the first distance and the position of the electronic device does not move, the power of the first probe response frame received by the electronic device is lower than the power of the data frame received by the electronic device.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, Before the wireless access device sends the first probe response frame to the electronic device through the first antenna at the first power, the method further comprises: The network configuration indicator light of the wireless access device flickers; After the electronic device establishes the wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, the method further comprises: The network configuration indicator light of the wireless access device is always on.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, After the electronic device receives the second probe response frame and before the electronic device establishes the wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, the method further comprises: The wireless access device and the electronic device determine a first key through negotiation; The wireless access device and the electronic device determine a first key through negotiation; The wireless access device encrypts a password of a wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located based on the first key to obtain an encrypted password, and sends the encrypted password to the electronic device; The electronic device decrypts the encrypted password based on the first key after receiving the encrypted password to obtain the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein, The electronic device and the wireless access device establish a wireless local area network connection, including: The electronic device and the wireless access device establish a wireless local area network connection based on the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, In the case where the device type of the electronic device is a router, After the electronic device and the wireless access device establish a wireless local area network connection, the method further includes: The electronic device and the wireless access device negotiate synchronization parameter information; wherein the parameter information includes one or more of the following: frequency band of the wireless access device, channel type of the wireless access device, data transmission rate of the wireless access device.

9. A network configuration method, the method being applied to an electronic device, characterized by, The method includes: Receiving and responding to a user operation, sending a first probe request frame, the first probe request frame including a network configuration element of the electronic device; Receiving a first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device through a first antenna at a first power, the first probe response frame including a basic service set identification of the wireless access device; Receiving and responding to the first probe response frame sent by the wireless access device, sending a second probe request frame to the wireless access device, the second probe request frame including a basic service set identification of the wireless access device; Receiving a second probe response frame sent by the wireless access device to the electronic device through a second antenna at a second power, the second probe response frame including a password transmission mode negotiation capability identification and a media access control bit address of the electronic device; After receiving the second probe response frame, establishing a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device; After establishing the wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, receiving a data frame sent by the wireless access device through the second antenna at the second power; Wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are the same antenna or two antennas, and the first power is less than the second power.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein, The coverage range of the signal sent by the wireless access device through the first antenna at the first power is less than the coverage range of the signal sent by the wireless access device through the second antenna at the second power.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein, In the case where the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than a first distance, the electronic device is in a position where it can receive the first probe response frame and the data frame; In the case where the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is greater than the first distance, the electronic device is in a position where it cannot receive the first probe response frame but can receive the data frame.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, The power of the first probe response frame received by the electronic device is lower than the power of the data frame received by the electronic device in a case that the distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than the first distance and the position of the electronic device does not move.

13. The method according to any one of claims 9-12, characterized in that, After receiving the second probe response frame and before establishing a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, the method further comprises: determining a first key through negotiation with the wireless access device; after receiving the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located which is encrypted based on the first key sent by the wireless access device, decrypting the encrypted password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located based on the first key to obtain the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein, establishing a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, comprising: establishing a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device based on the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located.

15. The method of any one of claims 9-12, wherein, in a case that the device type of the electronic device is a router, after establishing a wireless local area network connection with the wireless access device, the method further comprises: synchronizing parameter information with the wireless access device through negotiation; wherein the parameter information comprises one or more of the following: frequency band of the wireless access device, channel type of the wireless access device, data transmission rate of the wireless access device.

16. A network configuration method, the method being applied to a wireless access device, characterized by, The method comprises: receiving and responding to a first probe request frame sent by an electronic device, sending a first probe response frame to the electronic device through a first antenna at a first power, the first probe request frame comprising a network configuration information element of the electronic device, and the first probe response frame comprising a basic service set identifier of the wireless access device, the first probe request frame being sent after the electronic device receives and responds to a user operation; receiving and responding to a second probe request frame sent by an electronic device, sending a second probe response frame to the electronic device through a second antenna at a second power, the second probe request frame comprising a basic service set identifier of the wireless access device, and the second probe response frame comprising a password transmission mode negotiation capability identifier and a media access control bit address of the electronic device; establishing a wireless local area network connection with the electronic device; after establishing the wireless local area network connection with the electronic device, sending a data frame to the electronic device through the second antenna at the second power; wherein the first antenna and the second antenna are the same antenna or two antennas, and the first power is less than the second power.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, The coverage range of the signal sent by the wireless access device through the first antenna at the first power is less than the coverage range of the signal sent by the wireless access device through the second antenna at the second power.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein, In a case that the distance between the wireless access device and the electronic device is less than a first distance, the electronic device is in a position where the first probe response frame and the data frame can be received. In a case where a distance between the wireless access device and the electronic device is greater than the first distance, the electronic device is located at a position where the first probe response frame cannot be received but the data frame can be received.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein, In a case where a distance between the electronic device and the wireless access device is less than the first distance and a position of the electronic device does not move, a power of the first probe response frame received by the electronic device is lower than a power of the data frame received by the electronic device.

20. The method of any one of claims 16-19, wherein, Before the first probe response frame is transmitted to the electronic device at the first power through the first antenna, the method further comprises: a commissioning indicator light of the wireless access device blinks; after the wireless local area network connection is established with the electronic device, the method further comprises: the commissioning indicator light of the wireless access device is always on.

21. The method of any one of claims 16-19, wherein, after the second probe response frame is transmitted to the electronic device at the first power through the first antenna, before the wireless local area network connection is established with the electronic device, the method further comprises: a first key is determined by negotiation with the electronic device; an encryption password of a wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located is encrypted based on the first key to obtain an encrypted password, and the encrypted password is transmitted to the electronic device; wherein the encrypted password is used for the electronic device to decrypt the encrypted password based on the first key to obtain the password of the wireless local area network where the wireless access device is located.

22. The method of any one of claims 16-19, wherein, in a case where a device type of the electronic device is a router, after the wireless local area network connection is established with the electronic device, the method further comprises: synchronization parameter information is negotiated with the electronic device; wherein the parameter information includes one or more of the following: a frequency band of the wireless access device, a channel type of the wireless access device, a data transmission rate of the wireless access device.

23. An electronic device, comprising: The electronic device comprises one or more processors, one or more memories; the one or more memories are coupled with the one or more processors, the one or more memories are used to store computer program codes, the computer program codes comprise computer instructions, and the one or more processors invoke the computer instructions to enable the electronic device to execute the method in any one of claims 1-8 or claims 9-15.

24. A chip device, characterized by The chip device comprises at least one processor and a memory, the memory is used to store computer program codes, the computer program codes comprise computer instructions, and the at least one processor invokes the computer instructions to enable an electronic device installed with the chip device to execute the method in any one of claims 1-8 or claims 9-15.

25. A computer readable storage medium for storing computer instructions, when the computer instructions run on an electronic device, enable the electronic device to execute the method in any one of claims 1-8 or claims 9-15.

26. A computer program product, characterised in that, When the computer program product runs on an electronic device, it enables the electronic device to execute the method in any one of claims 1-8 or claims 9-15.

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