Address randomization of mobile access points

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to address randomization of mobile access points. Some aspects of the present disclosure include apparatuses and methods for implementing address and parameter modification of access points (APs) and / or stations (STAs). Some aspects of the present disclosure relate to an electronic device. The electronic device includes a transceiver and a processor communicatively coupled to the transceiver. The processor is configured to communicate with a second electronic device using the transceiver, the second electronic device being associated with the electronic device using a first address and a first parameter of the electronic device. The processor is further configured to determine a second address and a second parameter of the electronic device, wherein the second address is different from the first address and the second parameter is different from the first parameter. The processor is further configured to communicate with the second electronic device using the second address and the second parameter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The aspects described generally relate to wireless communication networks, such as wireless local area networks (WLANs) with mobile access points. Background Technology

[0002] Wireless communication networks can be established in vehicles and / or using mobile devices operating as access points (APs). One or more stations (STAs) can be associated with a mobile AP (e.g., an AP in a vehicle, a mobile device operating as an AP, etc.). During the time an STA is associated with a mobile AP, the associated STA and / or AP can be tracked. Therefore, the privacy of the mobile AP, associated STAs, and the network may be compromised. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Some aspects of this disclosure include apparatus and methods for implementing address and parameter modification of an AP and / or STA. For example, some aspects of this disclosure relate to modifying (e.g., randomizing) the addresses (e.g., Media Access Control (MAC) addresses) and one or more parameters of the AP and STA when the STA is associated with an AP.

[0004] Some aspects of this disclosure relate to an electronic device. The electronic device includes a transceiver and a processor communicatively coupled to the transceiver. The processor is configured to communicate with a second electronic device using the transceiver, the second electronic device associating itself with a first access point (AP) instance of the electronic device using a first address and first parameters. The processor is further configured to determine a second address and second parameters of a second AP instance of the electronic device, wherein the second address differs from the first address and the second parameters differ from the first parameters. The processor is further configured to transmit frames indicating a translation to the second electronic device using the first AP instance. The processor is further configured to communicate with the second electronic device using the second address and second parameters.

[0005] Some aspects of this disclosure relate to a method including communicating with a second electronic device via a first access point (AP) instance of a first electronic device, the second electronic device being associated with the first electronic device using a first address and first parameters of the first AP instance. The method also includes determining, via the first electronic device, a second address and second parameters of a second AP instance of the first electronic device, wherein the second address differs from the first address and the second parameters differ from the first parameters. The method further includes transmitting frames indicating a translation to the second electronic device using the first AP instance. The method also includes communicating with the second electronic device using the second address and second parameters.

[0006] Some aspects of this disclosure relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor of a first electronic device, cause the processor to perform operations including communicating with a second electronic device via a first access point (AP) instance of the first electronic device, the second electronic device associating with the first electronic device using a first address and first parameters of the first AP instance. The operations also include determining a second address and second parameters of a second AP instance of the first electronic device, wherein the second address differs from the first address and the second parameters differ from the first parameters. The operations further include transmitting a frame indicating a translation to the second electronic device using the first AP instance. The operations also include communicating with the second electronic device using the second address and second parameters.

[0007] Some aspects of this disclosure relate to an electronic device. The electronic device includes a transceiver and a processor communicatively coupled to the transceiver. The processor is configured to communicate with a first AP instance of a second electronic device using the transceiver and using a first address and first parameters of a first access point (AP) instance of the second electronic device. The electronic device may be associated with the first AP instance of the second electronic device. The processor may be further configured to receive from the second electronic device a second address and second parameters associated with a second AP instance of the second electronic device. The second address is different from the first address, and the second parameters are different from the first parameters. The processor may be further configured to receive from the second electronic device a frame indicating a translation to a second AP instance of the second electronic device. The processor may be further configured to communicate with the second electronic device using the second address and second parameters of the second electronic device.

[0008] Some aspects of this disclosure relate to a method comprising communicating with a first AP instance of a second electronic device via a first electronic device using a first address and first parameters of a first access point (AP) instance of a second electronic device. The first electronic device is associated with the first AP instance of the second electronic device. The method further comprises receiving, via the first electronic device, a second address and second parameters associated with a second AP instance of the second electronic device from the second electronic device. The second address differs from the first address, and the second parameters differ from the first parameters. The method further comprises receiving, via the second electronic device, a frame indicating a translation to the second AP instance of the second electronic device. The method further comprises communicating with the second electronic device using the second address and second parameters of the second electronic device.

[0009] Some aspects of this disclosure relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor of a first electronic device, cause the processor to perform operations including communicating with a first AP instance of a second electronic device using a first address and first parameters of a first access point (AP) instance of the second electronic device. The first electronic device is associated with the first AP instance of the second electronic device. The operations also include receiving from the second electronic device a second address and second parameters associated with the second electronic device. The second address is different from the first address, and the second parameters are different from the first parameters. The operations also include receiving from the second electronic device a frame indicating a translation to a second AP instance of the second electronic device. The operations also include communicating with the second electronic device using the second address and second parameters of the second electronic device.

[0010] The present invention is provided to illustrate some aspects of this disclosure in order to provide an understanding of the subject matter described herein. Therefore, the above features are exemplary and should not be construed as narrowing the scope or substance of the subject matter of this disclosure. Other features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form part of the specification, illustrate the present disclosure and, together with the specification, further serve to explain the principles of the disclosure and enable those skilled in the art to make and use the disclosure.

[0012] Figure 1 An exemplary system is shown that implements modifications to the addresses and parameters of the AP and / or STA according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0013] Figure 2 A block diagram of an exemplary wireless system is shown, illustrating an electronic device that implements address and parameter modifications of an AP and / or STA according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0014] Figure 3A and Figure 3B An example of communication between an AP and a STA according to some aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0015] Figures 3C to 3F An exemplary BTM request frame format according to some aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0016] Figure 3G and Figure 3H Exemplary availability and termination of several APs are shown according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0017] Figure 4 Exemplary communication between two APs and STAs is shown according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0018] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Exemplary communication between an AP and a STA with channel switching is shown according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0019] Figure 5C An exemplary channel switching frame format according to some aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0020] Figure 6 Exemplary methods are shown for supporting and implementing address and parameter modifications of a wireless system (e.g., an AP) according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0021] Figure 7 Exemplary methods are shown for supporting and implementing address and parameter modifications of a wireless system (e.g., a STA) according to some aspects of this disclosure.

[0022] Figure 8 An exemplary computer system for implementing some aspects or parts thereof is shown.

[0023] This disclosure is described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals generally denote the same or similarly functional elements. Additionally, the leftmost numeral of the reference numerals generally appears first in the drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Some aspects of this disclosure include apparatus and methods for implementing address and parameter modification of an AP and / or STA. For example, some aspects of this disclosure relate to modifying (e.g., randomizing) the addresses (e.g., Media Access Control (MAC) addresses) and one or more parameters of the AP and STA when the STA is associated with an AP. In some examples, by modifying the addresses and other parameters of the AP and STA, the privacy of the wireless network can be improved.

[0025] According to some aspects of this disclosure, the address and parameter modifications of the AP and / or STA of this disclosure can be implemented using communication technologies compatible with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 standards (such as, but not limited to, IEEE 802.11aq, IEEE 802.11bi, IEEE 802.11w, etc.). However, aspects of this disclosure can also be applied to operation in other communication networks operating according to any protocol.

[0026] Figure 1An exemplary system 100 is shown that implements modifications to the addresses and parameters of APs and / or STAs according to some aspects of this disclosure. The exemplary system 100 is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the aspects disclosed. System 100 may include, but is not limited to, access points (APs) 110 and 150, stations (STAs) 120, and network 130. STAs 120a-120c may include, but are not limited to, wireless local area network (WLAN) stations, such as wireless communication devices, smartphones, laptops, desktop computers, tablets, personal assistants, monitors, televisions, wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches), Internet of Things (IoT) devices, gaming devices, etc. APs 110 and 150 may include, but are not limited to, WLAN electronic devices, such as wireless routers, wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches), wireless communication devices (e.g., smartphones), IoT devices, gaming devices, or combinations thereof. Network 130 may be the Internet and / or WLAN. Communication of STA 120 is shown as wireless communication 140. Communication between AP 110 and AP150 and STA 120 can be achieved using wireless communication technologies 140a-140d. These technologies can be based on various wireless communication technologies, including but not limited to those based on IEEE 802.11 (such as, but not limited to, IEEE 802.11aq, IEEE 802.11bi, IEEE 802.11w, etc.).

[0027] Depending on some aspects, system 100 may include a multi-link communication network. In this example, AP 110 and AP 150 may include AP multi-link devices (MLDs). Additionally, one or more STAs in STA 120 may include non-AP MLDs.

[0028] Depending on some aspects, AP 110 and / or AP 150 may include a mobile AP. In some examples, the mobile AP may include an AP in a vehicle, train, airplane, etc. In some examples, the mobile AP may include an AP operated via a mobile electronic device (such as, but not limited to, a smartphone, laptop, tablet, wearable device, etc.).

[0029] STA 120a (as an example STA) can be associated with AP 110 and can communicate with AP 110 and / or network 130 via wireless communication 140a. In some examples, STA 120a may use the same address (e.g., MAC address) to operate during the period when STA 120a is associated with AP 110. By using the same MAC address during its association period with AP 110, STA 120a (and / or AP 110) may be vulnerable to tracking and / or attacks. For example, an attacker's device could track STA 120a (and / or AP 110) while STA 120a (and / or AP 110) maintains its address during the associated period.

[0030] In some examples, STA 120a can change its address. For instance, STA 120a can perform a re-authentication and association procedure with AP 110. However, if the authentication and association signaling is not protected, an attacker's device can follow the address updates of STA 120a. Additionally, as long as AP 110 has an associated STA, AP 110 maintains and uses the same address (and / or parameters). Therefore, an attacker can also track the address (and / or parameters) of AP 110.

[0031] According to some aspects, and discussed in more detail below, system 100 implements apparatus and methods for modifying the addresses and / or parameters of AP 110 and / or STA 120 to improve, for example, the privacy of system 100. In some aspects, AP 110 may be a physical AP configured to operate one or more AP instances. In this example, STA 120a associated with AP 110 may be associated with a first AP instance. AP 110 (using, for example, the first AP instance) may direct the associated STA 120a to communicate with a second AP instance having a different address and / or different parameters. In this example, during a transition period (e.g., the time when STA 120a is transitioned from the first AP instance to the second AP instance), AP 110 may operate both AP instances simultaneously. After the transition, STA 120a may communicate with AP 110 using the second AP instance, which has a different address and / or different parameters compared to the first AP instance of AP 110.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, AP 110 may maintain one AP instance at a time, and AP 110 may switch channels and modify the addresses and / or parameters of AP 110 and its associated STA 120a. In some examples, AP 110 maintains one AP instance at a time, and channel switching may be performed simultaneously (or substantially simultaneously) for both AP 110 and STA 120a. In some examples, STA 120a may operate with AP 110 in a new channel using the same association.

[0033] Additionally or alternatively, STA 120a may change its address and / or parameters during a transition from AP 110 to AP 150 on the same network. STA 120a may signal its new address and / or new parameters to the network, allowing the network to identify STA 120a with its new address and / or parameters.

[0034] As discussed in this disclosure, modified addresses and / or parameters may include determining (e.g., selecting) new addresses and / or new parameters.

[0035] Depending on several aspects, the addresses and / or parameters of AP 110 and / or STA 120a can be modified (e.g., randomized) in each of the mechanisms described above. In some examples, the parameters to be modified may include parameters that can be used to track AP 110 and / or STA 120a. As a supplement to or alternative to modifying the addresses and / or parameters of AP 110 and / or STA 120a, system 100 may use other mechanisms to improve its privacy.

[0036] For example, an associated STA (e.g., STA 120a) may use protected management frames in its communication with AP 110. In a non-limiting example, the associated STA may only send encrypted management frames (e.g., based on the IEEE 802.11w standard).

[0037] In another example, system 100 may use a secure safe mode. In a non-limiting example, system 100 may use Wi-Fi. TM Protected access version 3-person mode (WPA3 Personal). In some examples, System 100 does not use insecure security modes such as, but not limited to, open networks, WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy), WPA, WPA2, and TKI (Temporary Key Integrity Protocol) cipher sets.

[0038] In some examples, System 100 can implement a privacy client privacy mechanism. This privacy client privacy mechanism may include Wi-Fi... TMClient-side privacy (e.g., WPA3 version 3, such as the IEEE 802.11aq standard). For example, client-side privacy mechanisms may include randomized MAC addresses, Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) pool exhaustion (e.g., reclaiming IP addresses from a deleted user if they have run out of IP addresses), and DHCP lease timeouts of less than, for example, 2 hours.

[0039] In some examples, system 100 may use pre-association security. Pre-association security may include, for example, a pre-association security negotiation (PASN) protocol used to protect unassociation STA frames transmitted to AP 110.

[0040] In some examples, system 100 may use protected block acknowledgments (Ack). For example, the block Ack request frame is protected so that no device can change the sequence number (SN) of the receiver from its hold reordering buffer.

[0041] In some examples, system 100 may use beacon protection. For instance, a beacon frame may contain an integrity checksum, allowing the receiver to verify the integrity of the received beacon frame.

[0042] In some examples, System 100 does not use one or more of MAC address filtering or access control, MAC address identification, and MAC address storage. In some examples, the MAC address can only temporarily identify the STA when the address changes.

[0043] According to some examples, system 100 may use multiple randomized AP addresses. For example, when an AP (e.g., AP110) is activated, its address (e.g., MAC address) is randomized (or substantially randomized, e.g., pseudo-randomized). In one example, the local management bit of the MAC address is set to a first value (e.g., "1"), and the unicast / multicast bit of the MAC address is set to a second value (e.g., "0"). The other bits of the MAC address (e.g., the other 46 bits) are set to random (or substantially randomized, e.g., pseudo-randomized) values. In this example, AP 110 may hide its Service Set Identifier (SSID) and not transmit its SSID in beacon and / or other frames.

[0044] Additionally or alternatively, AP 110 may randomize the initial value of the Time Synchronization Function (TSF), the sequence number of the Physical Protocol Data Unit (PPDU), and the dialog token value to identify management frames belonging to the same transaction, i.e., scrambler seeds in request-response signaling and / or PHY preambles. In some examples, scan privacy is implemented for both AP 110 and STA 120 (e.g., based on the IEEE 802.11aq standard). In some examples, AP 110 may scan at random times, making it undetectable to other STAs that AP 110 is scanning.

[0045] In some respects, the element values ​​transmitted by AP 110 do not contain identifiers that can be used to fingerprint AP 110. For example, the element values ​​do not include a sequence number or other STA-specific information. According to some examples, unless the order is defined in the standard, the proprietary elements and their order are random (or substantially random). This random order applies to all frames, including but not limited to authentication, General Advertising Service (GAS), association, etc.

[0046] Depending on some aspects, one or more parameters that can be modified in AP 110 and / or STA 120a may include, but are not limited to, parameters associated with management frames, parameters associated with security modes, parameters associated with block Ack, parameters associated with beacons and / or other frames, parameters associated with MAC addresses, TSF, PPDU sequence numbers, dialog token values ​​used to identify management frames, scrambler seeds in PHY preambles, etc. However, one or more parameters that can be modified in AP 110 and / or STA 120a may include other parameters. For example, one or more parameters may include any parameters that can be used to track AP 110 and / or STA 120a.

[0047] According to some aspects, each of the wireless communications 140a-140d may include one or more links. For example, wireless communication 140 may include one or more links. According to some aspects, each link may include a wireless channel. Each wireless channel / link may be defined based on a corresponding frequency that differs from other wireless channels / links. However, aspects of this disclosure are not limited to wireless channels, and other MAC / PHY layer links may be used as links for communication, for example, between STA 120a and AP 110.

[0048] Figure 2A block diagram of an exemplary wireless system 200 is shown, illustrating an electronic device that implements address and parameter modifications for an AP and / or STA according to some aspects of this disclosure. System 200 can be any electronic device of system 100 (e.g., AP 110, AP 150, STA 120). System 200 includes a processor 210, one or more transceivers 220a-220n, a communication infrastructure 240, a memory 250, an operating system 252, an application program 254, and an antenna 260. The illustrated system is provided as an exemplary part of wireless system 200, and system 200 may include other circuitry and subsystems. Furthermore, although the wireless system 200 is shown as separate components, aspects of this disclosure may include any combination of these components, fewer components, or more components.

[0049] Memory 250 may include random access memory (RAM) and / or cache, and may include control logic (e.g., computer software) and / or data. Memory 250 may include other storage devices or memories, such as, but not limited to, hard disk drives and / or removable storage devices / cells. According to some examples, operating system 252 may be stored in memory 250. Operating system 252 may manage data transfer from memory 250 and / or one or more applications 254 to processor 210, one or more transceivers 220a-220n. In some examples, operating system 252 may hold one or more network protocol stacks (e.g., Internet Protocol stack, cellular protocol stack, etc.) that may include multiple logical layers. At the corresponding layer of the protocol stack, operating system 252 includes control mechanisms and data structures to perform the functions associated with that layer.

[0050] According to some examples, application 254 may be stored in memory 250. Application 254 may include applications used by the wireless system 200 and / or users of the wireless system 200 (e.g., user applications). Applications in application 254 may include, but are not limited to, applications such as, Siri. TM FaceTime TM Wireless streaming, video streaming, remote control, gaming applications and / or other user applications.

[0051] System 200 may also include communication infrastructure 240. Communication infrastructure 240 provides communication between, for example, processor 210, one or more transceivers 220a-220n, and memory 250. In some implementations, communication infrastructure 240 may be a bus. Processor 210, together with instructions stored in memory 250, executes to enable the wireless system 200 of system 100 to perform address and parameter modification operations as described herein for APs and / or STAs. Additionally or alternatively, one or more transceivers 220a-220n perform operations that enable the wireless system 200 of system 100 to perform address and parameter modification operations as described herein for APs and / or STAs.

[0052] One or more transceivers 220a-220n transmit and receive communication signals that support address and parameter modification, and may be coupled to antenna 260. (Throughout this document, a transceiver may also be referred to as a radio component). Antenna 260 may include one or more antennas, which may be of the same or different types. One or more transceivers 220a-220n allow system 200 to communicate with other devices, which may be wired and / or wireless. In some examples, one or more transceivers 220a-220n may include processors, controllers, radio components, receptacles, plugs, buffers, and similar circuitry / devices for connecting to and communicating over a network. According to some examples, one or more transceivers 220a-220n may include one or more circuitry for connecting to and communicating over wired and / or wireless networks.

[0053] According to some aspects of this disclosure, one or more transceivers 220a-220n may include a cellular subsystem, a WLAN subsystem, and / or Bluetooth. TM Each subsystem includes its own radio transceiver and protocol, as will be understood by those skilled in the art based on the discussion provided herein. In some specific implementations, one or more transceivers 220a-220n may include more or fewer systems for communicating with other devices.

[0054] In some examples, one or more transceivers 220a-220n may include one or more circuits (including cellular transceivers) for connecting to and communicating on a cellular network. Cellular networks may include, but are not limited to, 3G / 4G / 5G networks, such as Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Long Term Evolution (LTE), etc.

[0055] Additionally, or alternatively, one or more transceivers 220a-220n may include those for implementing, for example, Bluetooth-based... TM Protocol, Bluetooth TMLow power protocol or Bluetooth TM One or more circuits for low-power remote protocol connectivity and communication (including Bluetooth) TM (Transceiver). For example, transceiver 220n may include Bluetooth. TM Transceiver.

[0056] Additionally, one or more transceivers 220a-220n may include one or more circuits (including a WLAN transceiver) for enabling connectivity and communication over a WLAN network (such as, but not limited to, networks based on standards described in IEEE 802.11, such as, but not limited to, IEEE 802.11aq, IEEE 802.11bi, IEEE 802.11w, etc.). For example, transceiver 220a may enable connectivity and communication over a WLAN (e.g., a multi-link WLAN) with a first link associated with a 2.4 GHz wireless communication channel. For example, transceiver 220b may enable connectivity and communication over a WLAN with a second link associated with a 5 GHz wireless communication channel. For example, transceiver 220c may enable connectivity and communication over a WLAN with a third link associated with a 6 GHz wireless communication channel. However, aspects of this disclosure are not limited to these wireless channels, and other PHY layer links and / or other wireless channels may be used.

[0057] Alternatively, the wireless system 200 may include a WLAN transceiver configured to operate at two or more links. According to some examples, the processor 210 may be configured to control a WLAN transceiver to switch between different links. For example, transceiver 220a may enable connectivity and communication on a WLAN (e.g., a multi-link WLAN) with a first link associated with a 2.4 GHz wireless communication channel. Transceiver 220b may enable connectivity and communication on a WLAN with a second link associated with a 5 GHz wireless communication channel, and may enable connectivity and communication on a WLAN with a third link associated with a 6 GHz wireless communication channel. According to some aspects of this disclosure, switching from a first link to a second link may include using a transceiver associated with the second link (e.g., transceiver 220b) instead of a transceiver associated with the first link (e.g., transceiver 220a). Alternatively, switching from a first link to a second link may include controlling a single transceiver (e.g., transceiver 220) to operate at the frequency of the second link instead of the frequency of the first link.

[0058] Depending on some aspects, system 200 can be implemented in AP 110 (e.g., a physically mobile AP). In some examples, system 200 of AP 110 can be configured to generate and / or maintain one or more AP instances. Depending on some aspects, one or more AP instances can be generated using one or more transceivers 220a-220n.

[0059] In one example, two or more AP instances can be associated with a single transceiver. For instance, a first AP instance can be associated with transceiver 220b operating at a first link / channel, and a second AP instance can be associated with transceiver 220b operating at a second link / channel. In some examples, the first link and the second link are the same. In some examples, the first link and the second link are different.

[0060] In another example, each AP instance can be associated with a transceiver. For example, a first AP instance can be associated with transceiver 220a operating at a first link / channel, and a second AP instance can be associated with transceiver 220b operating at a second link / channel. In some examples, the first link and the second link are the same. In some examples, the first link and the second link are different.

[0061] However, the aspects of this disclosure are not limited to these examples, and AP 110 (e.g., a physical mobile AP) may use other transceivers and / or channels to create and maintain AP instances.

[0062] According to some aspects of this disclosure, processor 210, alone or in combination with computer instructions stored in memory 250 and / or one or more transceivers 220a-220n, implements address and parameter modifications of AP and / or STA as discussed herein. (See Figures 3 to 4 below.) Figure 8 In more detail, processor 210 can... Figure 1 The method disclosed herein shall be implemented in a communication network.

[0063] Figure 3A and Figure 3B An example of communication between an access point (AP) and a station (STA) according to some aspects of this disclosure is shown. In this example, STA 320 (e.g., a non-AP multi-link device (MLD)) can communicate with AP 310 (e.g., an AP MLD—including AP instance 310a and AP instance 310b) using a WLAN. In some examples, AP 310 may include Figure 1 AP 110 and / or AP 150, and STA 320 may include Figure 1 One of the STAs in STA 120a-120c.

[0064] exist Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the exemplary communication, AP 310 may be a physical AP configured to operate one or more AP instances 310a-310b. In this example, STA 320 is associated with AP instance 310a. AP 310 (using, for example, AP instance 310a) can direct the associated STA 320 to communicate with AP instance 310b, which has a different address and / or different parameters compared to AP instance 310a. In this example, during the transition period (the time when STA 320 is transitioned from AP instance 310a to AP instance 31b), AP 310 can operate both AP instances simultaneously. After the transition, STA 320 can communicate with AP 310 using AP instance 310b, which has a different address and / or different parameters compared to AP instance 310a.

[0065] like Figure 3A As shown, during step 301, STA 320 is associated with a first AP instance (AP instance 310a) of AP 310. In a non-limiting example, STA 320 and AP instance 310a may operate on a 5 GHz channel. However, aspects of this disclosure are not limited to this channel.

[0066] At 303, AP 310 (using, for example, AP instance 310a) initiates a second AP instance (AP instance 310b). As discussed above, initiating AP instance 310b may include using the same transceiver associated with AP instance 310a to operate on the same or a different channel compared to AP instance 310a. However, AP instance 310b (the new AP instance) will have different addresses and / or parameters compared to AP instance 310a. In this example, initiating AP instance 310b may also include determining the addresses and / or parameters of AP instance 310b, which are different from those of AP instance 310a.

[0067] Additionally or alternatively, starting up AP instance 310b may include using a different transceiver than that associated with AP instance 310a to operate on the same or a different channel compared to AP instance 310a. AP instance 310b (the new AP instance) will have different addresses and / or parameters compared to AP instance 310a. In this example, starting up AP instance 310b may also include determining the addresses and / or parameters of AP instance 310b, which are different from those of AP instance 310a.

[0068] In a non-restrictive example, AP instance 310b can also operate on a 5GHz channel.

[0069] Depending on some aspects, AP instance 310b has an address (e.g., MAC address or Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID)) that is different from that of AP instance 310a. Additionally or alternatively, AP instance 310b may have one or more parameters that are different from those of AP instance 310a. In some examples, AP instance 310b has the same SSID as AP instance 310a, but with a different address and / or different parameters. Additionally or alternatively, AP instance 310b may be used with the same device as AP instance 310a (e.g., a STA, such as STA 320).

[0070] After activating AP instance 310b, AP instance 310b transmits one or more beacons 305 to STA 320 (which remains associated with AP instance 310a). In some aspects, by sending beacons 305, AP instance 310b can signal to STA 320 that AP instance 310b is available to receive frames. For example, AP instance 310b can indicate that AP instance 310b is available to perform procedures such as authentication and association, enabling STA 320 to associate with AP instance 310b. In some aspects, beacons 305 can signal the address and / or parameters of AP instance 310b (which are different from those of AP instance 310a). In some examples, beacons 305 do not include the SSID of AP 310's Basic Service Set (BSS). STA 320 can discover AP instance 310b from beacons 305.

[0071] In some aspects, after transmitting beacon 305, AP instance 310a may transmit BSS Transition Management (BTM) request frame 307 to STA 320. In some examples, BTM request frame 307 may include information (e.g., an indicator) indicating a transition to a second AP instance (e.g., AP instance 310b). Additionally or alternatively, BTM request frame 307 may include the time of termination of the first AP instance (e.g., AP instance 310a). Additionally or alternatively, BTM request frame 307 may include a request for STA 320 to modify its address and / or parameters for use with AP instance 310b. In other words, BTM request frame 307 may include a request for STA 320 to use a different (e.g., randomized) address and / or parameters to communicate with AP instance 310b.

[0072] Upon receiving BTM request frame 307, STA 320 can initiate authentication and association procedures with AP instance 310b. Depending on some aspects, STA 320 can use the information in BTM request frame 307 to perform the authentication and association procedures. For example, STA 320 transmits authentication request frame 309 to AP instance 310b. Authentication request frame 309 can be based on the address and parameters of AP instance 310b. Additionally or alternatively, authentication request frame 309 can be based on a modified (e.g., randomized) address and / or parameters of STA 320.

[0073] Upon receiving authentication request frame 309, AP instance 310b may transmit authentication response frame 311. According to some aspects, AP instance 310b may determine whether STA 320 has changed its address and / or parameters compared to those already used by STA 320 in its communication with AP instance 310a. According to some aspects, if STA 320's address and / or parameters have not changed, authentication response frame 311 may include an error message. According to some aspects, in response to the error message, STA 320 may retransmit its authentication request frame 309 with modified (e.g., randomized) address and / or parameters. In some examples, the error message may be used in any authentication response frame and / or associated response frame to request the modified address and / or parameters via STA 320.

[0074] If the address and / or parameters of STA 320 change, STA 320 and AP instance 310b can move to the association procedure. For example, STA 320 can transmit an association request frame 313. In response, AP instance 310b can transmit an association response frame 315. In some aspects, if the address and / or parameters of STA 320 have not changed, the association response frame 311 (or re-association response frame) may include an error message. According to some aspects, in response to the error message, STA 320 can retransmit its association request frame 309 (or re-association request) with modified (e.g., randomized) address and / or parameters.

[0075] After exchanging frames 309-315 and in response to successful authentication and association, STA 320 can be associated with AP instance 310b at 317. In some examples, AP instance 310b has a different address and / or parameters compared to AP instance 310a. Additionally, depending on certain aspects, STA 320 may have different addresses and / or parameters than it had when associated with AP instance 310a.

[0076] According to some aspects, frames 309-315 may be part of the fast BSS transition signaling between STA 320 and AP instance 310b. According to some aspects, STA 320 and AP 310b may use pre-association security to protect authentication and / or association frames 309-315 to protect the content of these frames from other devices. Additionally or alternatively, STA 320 and AP 310a may use security (e.g., encoding) on ​​communication BTM request frames 307. Although frames 313-315 are discussed regarding association procedures, frames 313-315 may also include reassociation frames.

[0077] At 319, AP instance 310a is terminated (e.g., physically moving AP 310 terminates its first AP instance). According to some aspects, AP instance 310a may be terminated after all associated STAs have been associated with a new AP (e.g., AP instance 310b). In this example, AP instance 310b has the same number of associations as AP instance 310a, and there are no frame transmissions to / from AP instance 310a. Additionally or alternatively, AP instance 310a may be terminated after the signaling termination time of AP instance 310a. Additionally or alternatively, AP instance 310a may be terminated after AP instance 310a has sent a disassociation frame to the associated STA (e.g., STA 320). In some examples, AP instance 310a may be terminated after any of the above exemplary events, whichever occurs first. In some examples, the STA (e.g., STA 320) may not be disassociated from AP instance 310a.

[0078] Figure 3B Another exemplary communication between STA 320 and AP 310 is shown. Figure 3B The exemplary communication is similar to Figure 3A Exemplary communication. In Figure 3B In exemplary communication, with Figure 3A In comparison, the time period for both AP instance 310a and AP instance 310b to operate simultaneously is shortened.

[0079] like Figure 3B As shown, during 331, STA 320 is associated with a first AP instance (AP instance 310a) of AP 310. In a non-limiting example, STA 320 and AP instance 310a may operate on a 5 GHz channel, and AP instance 310b may operate on a 6 GHz channel. However, aspects of this disclosure are not limited to this channel.

[0080] According to some aspects, during 331, AP 310 can prepare a new AP instance (e.g., AP instance 320b) and determine when AP 310a will terminate.

[0081] In some aspects, AP instance 310a may transmit BSS Transition Management (BTM) request frame 333 to STA 320. In some examples, BTM request frame 333 may include information (e.g., an indicator) indicating a transition to a second AP instance (e.g., AP instance 310b). Additionally or alternatively, BTM request frame 333 may include the time when the second AP instance (e.g., AP instance 310b) begins (e.g., is started). Additionally or alternatively, BTM request frame 333 may include the time when the first AP instance (e.g., AP instance 310a) terminates. Additionally or alternatively, BTM request frame 333 may include a request for STA 320 to modify its address and / or parameters for use with AP instance 310b. In other words, BTM request frame 333 may include a request for STA 320 to use a different (e.g., randomized) address and / or parameters to communicate with AP instance 310b.

[0082] At position 335, AP 310 (using, for example, AP instance 310a) starts a second AP instance (AP instance 310b). Starting AP instance 310b can be similar to the above description. Figure 3A Operation 303 discusses the operation. Depending on some aspects, AP instance 310b has an address (e.g., MAC address or BSSID) different from that of AP instance 310a. Additionally or alternatively, AP instance 310b may have one or more parameters different from those of AP instance 310a. In some examples, AP instance 310b has the same SSID as AP instance 310a, but with a different address and / or different parameters. Additionally or alternatively, AP instance 310b may be used with the same device as AP instance 310a (e.g., a STA, such as STA 320).

[0083] After activating AP instance 310b, AP instance 310b transmits one or more beacons 337 to STA 320 (which remains associated with AP instance 310a). In some aspects, by sending beacons 337, AP instance 310b can signal to STA 320 that AP instance 310b is available to receive frames. For example, AP instance 310b can indicate that AP instance 310b is available to perform, for example, authentication and association procedures, so that STA 320 can associate with AP instance 310b. In some aspects, beacons 337 can signal the address and / or parameters of AP instance 310b (which are different from those of AP instance 310a). In some examples, beacons 337 do not include the SSID of AP 310's BSS. STA 320 can discover AP instance 310b from beacons 337. In some aspects, for a period of time after activating AP instance 310b at 335, AP instance 310b may not transmit beacons 337. In this example, the associated STA 320 can be associated (or reassociated) using the address and / or parameters provided in the BTM request frame.

[0084] After transmitting beacon 337, AP 310 can terminate its AP instance 310a at 339.

[0085] Next, STA 320 can initiate the authentication and association procedure with AP instance 310b. In some aspects, STA 320 can use the information in BTM request frame 333 to perform the authentication and association procedure. In some aspects, the authentication procedure may include authentication request frame 341 and authentication response frame 343. In some aspects, authentication request frame 341 and authentication response frame 343 may be similar to... Figure 3A The authentication request frame 309 and authentication response frame 311 are included. Additionally, the association process may include an association request frame 345 and an authentication response frame 347. Depending on some aspects, the association request frame 345 and the association response frame 347 may be similar to... Figure 3A The associated request frame 313 and the associated response frame 315.

[0086] For example, STA 320 transmits authentication request frame 341 to AP instance 310b. Authentication request frame 341 may be based on the address and parameters of AP instance 310b. Additionally or alternatively, authentication request frame 341 may be based on a modified (e.g., randomized) address and / or parameters of STA 320.

[0087] After exchanging frames 341-347 and responding to successful authentication and association, STA 320 may associate with AP instance 310b at 349. In some examples, AP instance 310b has a different address and / or parameters compared to AP instance 310a. Additionally, according to some aspects, STA 320 may have different addresses and / or parameters than it had when associated with AP instance 310a. According to some aspects, frames 341-347 may be part of fast BSS transition signaling between STA 320 and AP instance 310b. According to some aspects, STA 320 and AP 310b may use pre-association security to protect authentication and / or association frames 341-347 to protect the content of these frames from other devices. Additionally or alternatively, STA 320 and AP 310a may use security (e.g., encoding) on ​​communication BTM request frames 333. Although frames 313-315 discuss the association procedure, frames 345-347 may also include reassociation frames.

[0088] Figures 3C to 3F An exemplary BTM request frame format according to some aspects of this disclosure is shown. Figure 3A BTM request frame 307 and Figure 3B The BTM request frame 333 can have Figures 3C to 3F The BTM request frame format.

[0089] Depending on some aspects, BTM signaling can allow a STA (e.g., STA 320) to query candidate BSSs for BSS transition by sending a BTM query frame. The BTM query frame can be optional. If a BTM query frame is transmitted, an AP (e.g., AP 310) can respond using a BTM request frame. As discussed above, the AP can use the BTM request frame to request the STA to transition to the new BSS, and / or the AP can indicate the termination of the current AP instance. A STA can respond to a BTM request frame by sending a BTM response frame. The BTM response frame can indicate whether the STA accepts the AP's request.

[0090] Depending on some aspects, the BTM request frame 360 ​​may include a request pattern field 361. The request pattern field 361 may include one or more subfields, such as... Figure 3DAs shown. For example, the request mode field 361 may include an immediate disassociation subfield 363, a BSS termination subfield 365, and an Extended Service Set (ESS) termination subfield 367. According to some examples, an ESS may include one or more interconnected BSSs and their associated LANs. In some examples, if the immediate disassociation subfield 363 is set to a first value (e.g., "1"), the AP may signal to the STA that the AP will terminate the STA. In some examples, if the BSS termination subfield 365 is set to a first value (e.g., "1"), the AP may signal to the STA that the BSS will be terminated. In some examples, if the ESS termination subfield 367 is set to a first value (e.g., "1"), the AP may signal to the STA that the ESS will be terminated. In some examples, if any of these subfields (e.g., subfields 363-367) is set to 1, the AP (using BTM request frame 360) may also provide a time when termination / disassociation occurs.

[0091] Depending on some aspects, the request mode field 361 may include a required randomization parameter subfield 369. An AP (e.g., AP 310) may use the required randomization parameter subfield 369 of a BTM request frame 360 ​​to request a STA (e.g., STA 320) to modify (e.g., randomize) its address and / or parameters when the STA switches to a new AP instance. For example, an AP may set the required randomization parameter subfield 369 to a first value (e.g., "1") to request the STA to modify its address and / or parameters when the STA switches to a new AP instance. In some examples, it is recommended that the STA make changes even if the required randomization parameter subfield 369 is set to a second value (e.g., "0").

[0092] In this non-limiting example, each of the subfields 363-369 may have a length of 1 bit. However, aspects of this disclosure are not limited to this example, and other lengths may be used for subfields 363-369.

[0093] Depending on some aspects, the BTM request frame 360 ​​may include a BSS transition candidate list entry field 371. In some examples, the BSS transition candidate list entry field 371 may be an optional subfield. Depending on some aspects, the BSS transition candidate list entry field 371 may include zero or more adjacent report elements. Figure 3EAn exemplary neighbor report element 373 is shown. The neighbor report element 373 may include one or more subfields, such as an optional subfield 375. In some examples, the optional subfield 375 may have a variable length. Depending on some aspects, the optional subfield 375 may include one or more subfield IDs, names, and expandable subfields. In a non-limiting example, the subfield ID of the optional subfield 375 with a first value (e.g., subfield ID = 3) can be used to convey to preferences (e.g., 0-255) the degree to which the BBS considered by the AP is suitable for the STA.

[0094] Figure 3F An exemplary sub-element 377 of an optional sub-field 375 of an adjacent reporting element 373 is shown. Sub-element 377 may include a sub-element ID sub-field 381. In a non-limiting example, the sub-element ID sub-field 381 may have a sub-element ID between 63 and 65 in the optional sub-element sub-field 375. However, the sub-element ID sub-field 381 may include other values. Sub-element 377 may be used (e.g., via AP) to signal the start and end times of the BSS. For example, sub-element 377 may include a time when the BSS is available (sub-field 382), indicating when the BSS is available. Sub-element 377 may include a time when the BSS will terminate (sub-field 383), indicating when the BSS will terminate.

[0095] As discussed above, an AP (e.g., AP instance 310a) may send a BTM request frame (e.g., frame 307 or frame 333) to request an associated STA (e.g., STA 320) to switch to a new AP (e.g., AP instance 310b). A sub-element 377 of the neighbor reporting element 373 may signal when a candidate BSS becomes available and / or when it will terminate. In some examples, the neighbor reporting element 373 may also include a set of parameters for the new AP, including but not limited to the new AP's SSID and / or BSSID. An associated STA (e.g., STA 320) may scan for and / or associate with the new AP after it becomes available. STAs may select a scan order based on the time the BSS (e.g., the new AP) becomes available.

[0096] In some examples, certain candidate APs may only become available after the associated AP (the AP associated with the STA) terminates. If a STA wishes to associate with such a candidate AP, it may suffer a loss of connectivity. In some examples, a BTM request frame may recommend all BSSs (e.g., APs) with scores from 0 to 255. If some APs with higher preference scores are launched later, the STA can delay its transition to an AP to avoid too frequent AP transitions.

[0097] In some examples, a STA may have the capability to support a child element 377 of an adjacent reporting element 373. In these examples, the AP only includes child element 377 for STAs that support this capability. Older STAs that do not support this capability can only use the available BSS (e.g., AP).

[0098] Figure 3G Exemplary availability and termination of several APs are shown according to some aspects of this disclosure. Figure 3G The availability durations of AP1 (with MAC address 1) 387a, AP2 (with MAC address 2) 387b, AP3 (with MAC address 3) 387c, and AP4 (with MAC address 4) 387d are shown. In this example, a BTM request frame may be transmitted at time 388. In some examples, the BTM request frame may include time 389 when AP3 387c is available. When AP4 387d is available, the BTM request frame may also include time 390. When AP1 387a terminates, the BTM request frame may also include time 391. When AP3 387c terminates, the BTM request frame may also include time 392. When AP4 387d terminates, the BTM request frame may also include time 393.

[0099] As discussed above, an AP (e.g., AP instance 310a) uses a BTM request frame to transfer an associated STA (e.g., STA 320) to a new AP (e.g., AP instance 310b). In some examples, APs that will be immediately terminated in the BSS transfer candidate list entry field 371 are not included. In some examples, such APs (APs that will be immediately terminated) may be included only when no other APs are available. In some examples, an AP (e.g., AP instance 310a) may set preferences based on current STA link performance, expected and / or measured STA speeds, currently available BSSs, and / or future available BSSs. For example, as... Figure 3H As shown, when AP4394 begins operation, the AP can estimate that STA 320 is within the coverage area of ​​AP4394 (e.g., an AP instance). Therefore, the AP can use a BTM request frame to recommend AP4394 to STA 320. The AP can make this estimate based at least on the speed of STA 320 and the start and stop times of the AP instance.

[0100] return Figure 1According to some aspects, system 100 may include two physical APs (e.g., AP 110 and AP 150). In some examples, AP 110 and AP 150 may belong to the same network (e.g., have the same network ID, such as SSID). According to some aspects, STA 120a associated with AP 110 may switch to AP 150. For example, STA 120a may switch from communication 140a with AP 110 to communication 140d with AP 150. In some examples, STA 120a may operate with the same address (e.g., MAC address) for the duration of its association with AP 110 and when STA 120a switches (e.g., BSS switch) to AP 150. In this example, AP 150 can detect the associated STA 120a from its address. According to some examples, the same address may allow STA 120a to continue operating with the same IP address.

[0101] According to some aspects, when STA 120a switches to AP 150, STA 120a may be able to modify (e.g., randomize) its address and / or parameters. STA 120a may be configured to signal its modified address and / or parameters and use the modified address and / or parameters to scan and / or associate with AP 150. As discussed in more detail below, some aspects of this disclosure may enable STA 120a to modify its address and / or parameters to improve the privacy of system 100. Additionally or alternatively, STA 120a may be configured to maintain its IP address and connectivity as with associated AP 110. Additionally or alternatively, STA 120a may be configured to maintain the service level defined for system 100. STA 120a may also use authentication information created for associated AP 110. Additionally or alternatively, system 100 may direct STA 120a to the appropriate AP (e.g., system 100 may know that scan frames originate from associated STA 120a). Some aspects of this disclosure relate to methods and systems for STA 120a to change its address and / or parameters when transitioning from AP 110 to AP 150.

[0102] Figure 4 Exemplary communication between two access points (APs) and stations (STAs) according to some aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. In this example, STA 420 (e.g., a non-AP MLD—including STA instances 420a and 420b) can communicate with AP 410 (e.g., AP MLD) and AP 450 (e.g., AP MLD) using a WLAN. In some examples, AP 410 may include AP 110, and AP 450 may include... Figure 1 The AP 150, and the STA 420 may include Figure 1 One of the STAs in STA 120a-120c.

[0103] exist Figure 4 In the exemplary communication, AP 410 and AP 450 can be physical APs. In this example, STA 420 can be configured to operate one or more STA instances 420a-420b. Figure 4 As shown, during a 401 error, STA instance 420a is associated with AP 410. In this example, STA instance 420a may include the address of STA 420 (e.g., MAC address) and a set of one or more parameters.

[0104] Depending on some aspects, during a 401 call, STA 420 (e.g., using STA instance 420a) decides to transition to AP 450 and determines to modify (e.g., randomize) its address and / or parameters for the transition. During a 401 call, AP 410 may also identify one or more candidate APs (e.g., AP 450) for the transition.

[0105] Depending on several aspects, STA 420 may initiate a second STA instance (e.g., STA instance 420b). Initiating STA instance 420b may include using the same transceiver associated with STA instance 420a to operate on the same or a different channel compared to AP instance 420a. However, STA instance 420b (the new STA instance) will have different addresses and / or parameters compared to STA instance 420a. In this example, initiating STA instance 420b may also include determining the addresses and / or parameters of STA instance 420b that are different from those of STA instance 420a.

[0106] Additionally or alternatively, starting STA instance 420b may include using a different transceiver than that associated with STA instance 420a to operate on the same or a different channel compared to STA instance 420a. STA instance 420b (the new STA instance) will have different addresses and / or parameters compared to STA instance 420a. In this example, starting STA instance 420b may also include determining the addresses and / or parameters of STA instance 420b that are different from those of STA instance 420a.

[0107] STA instance 420a optionally transmits BTM query frame 403 to AP 410. Depending on some aspects, the optional BTM query frame 403 may include addresses and / or parameters that STA instance 420b will use for modifications to STA instance 420a associated with AP 450. Additionally or alternatively, the BTM query frame 403 may include candidate APs of interest to STA 420 (e.g., a list of candidate BSSs). Additionally or alternatively, the BTM query frame 403 may include queries from STA 420 regarding network-recommended APs.

[0108] AP 410 can transmit BTM request frame 405 to STA instance 420a. In some respects, BTM request frame 405 can be similar to the above description... Figures 3A to 3H The BTM request frame under discussion. In some examples, the BTM request frame 405 may include a BSS transformation candidate list field (e.g., Figure 3C Operation scheduling of field 371 and / or one or more APs (e.g., AP 450).

[0109] STA instance 420a can transmit BTM response frame 407 to AP 410. In some examples, where AP 410 has already sent an unsolicited BTM request frame 405 requesting STA 420 to change its AP, BTM response frame 407 may include the address and / or parameters of STA instance 420b.

[0110] During 409, STA 420 uses its modified (e.g., randomized) address and / or parameters to transition to AP 450. AP 450 may be able to identify STA instances 420a and / or 420b using the modified address and / or parameters. In some examples, STA 420 can use BSS fast transition to transition to AP 450 by using the modified address and / or parameters signaled by the system.

[0111] Depending on the context, after the transition, AP 450 can communicate with a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server to release the lease of the old address and lease a new (e.g., modified) address. In some examples, the STA identifier can allow the network to identify STA 420. In some examples, Service Level Agreements (SLAs) can be maintained for STA 420, etc.

[0112] Next, STA instance 420b can initiate the authentication and association procedure with AP 450. In some aspects, STA instance 420b can use the information in BTM request frame 405 to perform the authentication and association procedure. In some aspects, the authentication procedure may include authentication request frame 411 and authentication response frame 413. In some aspects, authentication request frame 411 and authentication response frame 413 may be similar to... Figure 3A The authentication request frame 309 and authentication response frame 311 are included. Additionally, the association process may include an association request frame 415 and an authentication response frame 417. Depending on some aspects, association request frame 415 and association response frame 417 may be similar to... Figure 3A The associated request frame 313 and associated response frame 315. In some examples, frames 411-415 may use modified (e.g., randomized) addresses and / or parameters of STA instance 420b and addresses and / or parameters of AP 450.

[0113] During period 419, STA instance 420b was converted to AP 450 and associated with it.

[0114] Depending on several aspects, an STA (e.g., STA 420) can define scanning and association addresses for APs (AP 410 and / or AP 450). For example, an STA can use random (or substantially random) addresses or scanning addresses used for pre-association discovery (e.g., activation scans, service discovery, GAS requests, etc.). In some examples, the scanning address identifies the STA and allows the STA to provide the best possible response. In some examples, the scanning address can only be used once, preventing an attacker's device from using the same address to gain more information about the network. In some examples, the association address can identify the STA in authentication and association request frames. In some examples, an STA can set multiple association addresses, and each address is good for an association / authentication attempt.

[0115] Depending on the context, the STA can set separate scanning and authentication addresses for different channels, or restrict addresses to be valid only on selected channels. In some examples, addresses may have a lifetime. In others, addresses can be BSS / ESS, AP-specific, or channel-specific.

[0116] According to some sources, even if the STA has an address set, the STA can use a random address to scan or authenticate / associate.

[0117] Depending on the context, one or more addresses from a set of STA scan addresses set between the transmission of a BTM query frame and the reception of a BTM request frame may be proposed but not yet acknowledged addresses. In this example, receiving one or more addresses from that set of STA scan addresses set after the BTM request frame may be acknowledged addresses.

[0118] Similarly, one or more addresses from a set of STA-associated addresses set between the transmission of a BTM query frame and the reception of a BTM request frame can be proposed but not yet acknowledged addresses. In this example, receiving one or more addresses from that set of STA-associated addresses set after the BTM request frame can be acknowledged addresses.

[0119] Although Figures 3A to 3H and Figure 4 These can be discussed separately, but aspects of the publicly available content of these diagrams can be combined.

[0120] As a supplement to or alternative to the methods discussed above, an AP (e.g., AP 110) may maintain one AP instance at a time, and the AP may switch channels and determine (e.g., select, randomize) a new address and / or parameters for the AP. The AP may also request the associated STA to determine (e.g., select) a new address and / or parameters. In some examples, the AP maintains one AP instance at a time, and channel switching may be performed simultaneously (or substantially simultaneously) for both the AP and the STA. In some examples, the STA may use the same association to operate with the AP in a new channel.

[0121] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Exemplary communication between an AP and a STA with channel switching according to some aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. In this example, STA 520 (e.g., a non-AP MLD) can communicate with AP 510 (e.g., AP MLD) using WLAN. STA 520 may include STA instance 520a and STA instance 520b, wherein one STA instance operates at a time. AP 510 may include AP instance 510a and AP instance 510b, wherein one AP instance operates at a time. In some examples, AP 510 may include... Figure 1 AP 110 and / or AP 150, and STA 520 may include Figure 1 One of the STAs in STA 120a-120c.

[0122] like Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, STA 520 may include STA instance 520a having a first address (e.g., a MAC address) and a first set of one or more parameters and operating at a first channel. STA 520 may launch STA instance 520b, which will have a second address different from the first address and / or will have a second set of one or more parameters different from the first set of parameters. According to some aspects, STA instance 520b will operate at a second channel different from the first channel. According to some aspects, launching STA instance 520b can be similar to the above description regarding... Figure 4 The discussion focuses on operations, such as... Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, depending on some aspects, STA 520 maintains one STA instance at a time (e.g., STA instance 520a or STA instance 520b).

[0123] Similarly, such as Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs shown, AP 510 may include AP instance 510a having a third address (e.g., a MAC address) and one or more third sets of parameters and operating at a first channel. AP 510 may launch STA instance 510b, which will have a fourth address different from the third address and / or will have one or more fourth sets of parameters different from the third set of parameters. According to some aspects, AP instance 510b will operate at a second channel different from the first channel. According to some aspects, launching AP instance 510b can be similar to the above description regarding... Figures 3A to 3H The discussion focuses on operations, such as... Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, depending on some aspects, AP 510 maintains one AP instance at a time (e.g., AP instance 510a or AP instance 510b).

[0124] like Figure 5A As shown, during period 501, STA 520 (e.g., using STA instance 520a) is associated with AP 510 (using AP instance 510a). STA instance 520a and AP instance 510a can communicate with each other on a first channel. AP 510 can use channel switching to improve the privacy of its network. For example, AP instance 510a can send a channel switching notification frame 503 to AP instance 520a to notify of the channel switch. In some examples, the channel switching notification frame 503 may include one or more pieces of information associated with the new channel (e.g., a second channel), the new address of AP instance 520b, new parameters of AP instance 520b, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the channel switching notification frame 503 may include an indication of whether STA 520 can continue operating in the second channel with its old address and / or old parameters. Additionally or alternatively, the channel switching notification frame 503 may include a request for STA 520 to determine a new address and / or new parameters for communicating with AP instance 510b on the new channel. Depending on some aspects, the channel handover notification frame 503 may include the time at which the STA 520 will cease operating with the AP instance 510a. In some examples, the AP 510 may use broadcast signaling for the channel handover notification frame 503. Alternatively, the AP 510 may use unicast signaling for the channel handover notification frame 503.

[0125] According to some aspects, during period 505, AP 510 determines its new address (e.g., the fourth address discussed above) and / or its new parameters (e.g., the fourth parameter discussed above) to start AP instance 510b. AP 510 also switches to a new channel (e.g., the second channel discussed above). Similarly, during period 505, STA 520 determines its new address (e.g., the second address discussed above) and / or its new parameters (e.g., the second parameter discussed above) to start STA instance 520a. STA 520 also switches to a new channel (e.g., the second channel discussed above).

[0126] After switching to a new channel (e.g., a second channel), STA instance 510b can use fast BSS switching signaling to begin operating with AP instance 520b. For example, STA instance 520b can initiate authentication and association procedures with AP instance 510b. According to some aspects, STA instance 520b can use information in the channel switching notification frame 503 to perform the authentication and association procedures. In some aspects, the authentication procedure may include authentication request frame 507 and authentication response frame 509. According to some aspects, authentication request frame 507 and authentication response frame 509 may be similar to... Figure 3A The authentication request frame 309 and authentication response frame 311 are included. Additionally, the association procedure may include an association request frame 511 and an authentication response frame 513. According to some aspects, the association request frame 511 and the association response frame 513 may be similar to... Figure 3A The associated request frame 313 and associated response frame 315. In some examples, frames 507-513 may use a new (e.g., randomized) address and / or parameters of STA instance 520b and a new (e.g., randomized) address and / or parameters of AP instance 510b.

[0127] After STA instance 510b is associated with AP instance 520b, STA instance 510b and AP instance 520b can communicate with each other on a new channel (e.g., a second channel).

[0128] Figure 5B Another exemplary communication between a STA 520 and an AP 510 with channel switching is shown. Figure 5A Similar operations and equipment in Figure 5B The same numbers are used to illustrate this. In some examples, STA 520 can ignore the channel switch after receiving channel switch notification frame 503. If STA 520 wants to continue operating with AP 510, STA 520 can re-authenticate and associate with AP instance 510b after the channel switch. Alternatively, as... Figure 5BAs shown, STA 520 (using STA instance 520a) can send an optional channel handover response 524 to AP instance 510a. According to some aspects, the channel handover response 524 may include a new address (e.g., the second address discussed above) and / or new parameters (e.g., the second parameters discussed above) that STA 520 will use in a new channel (e.g., a second channel).

[0129] In some examples, AP 510 can automatically accept new addresses and / or new parameters from STA 520. In some examples, if AP 510 detects that the new address and / or new parameters from STA 520 will conflict with some other addresses and / or parameters, AP 510 can disassociate from STA 520 and send a conflict message to STA 520. The disassociation and / or conflict message can trigger STA 520 to retry associating with AP 510.

[0130] After AP instance 510b and STA instance 510b are started and switched to the new channel, AP instance 510b and STA instance 510b can communicate with each other without performing certain actions. Figure 5A The authentication and association process. For example, STA instance 520b can begin transferring data 526 to AP instance 510b. And AP instance 510b can begin transferring block Ack 528 to STA instance 520b.

[0131] As discussed above, AP 510 and / or STA 520 can each modify (e.g., randomize) one or more parameters of AP 510 and / or STA 520. As discussed above, the one or more parameters that can be modified may include, but are not limited to, parameters associated with management frames, parameters associated with security modes, parameters associated with block Ack, parameters associated with beacons and / or other frames, parameters associated with MAC addresses, TSF, PPDU sequence numbers, dialog token values ​​used to identify management frames, scrambler seeds in PHY preambles, etc. However, the one or more parameters that can be modified may include other parameters, such as any parameters that can be used to track AP 510 and / or STA 520.

[0132] Figure 5C An exemplary channel switching frame format according to some aspects of this disclosure is shown. Channel switching frame 543 may include... Figure 5A and Figure 5B Channel switching frame 503. Channel switching frame 543 may include, for example, Figure 5COne or more fields are shown. Depending on some aspects, channel handover frame 543 may include a new channel number field 545 indicating the new channel to which the channel handover has occurred. Additionally or alternatively, channel handover frame 543 may include a new transmission power encapsulation element 545 indicating the maximum transmission power in the new channel. Additionally or alternatively, channel handover frame 543 may include a BSSID in the new channel field 547, which indicates the address (e.g., MAC address) that the new AP instance will use in the new channel. In some examples, if the STA (e.g., STA 520) detects the BSSID in the new channel field 547 of channel handover frame 543, the STA may send a channel handover response frame 524. As discussed above, channel handover response frame 524 may include a new address and / or new parameters that the STA will use in the new channel.

[0133] According to some aspects, the AP may consider different parameters used to schedule address and / or parameter updates for the AP and STAs. According to some aspects, the AP may schedule updates at random (or substantially random) times. In a non-limiting example, the AP may schedule updates on the order of about 5 minutes to about 10 minutes. However, aspects of this disclosure may include any other time intervals. According to some aspects, the AP may schedule updates by considering the time the AP has been operating and the time the STA has been associated with the AP. Additionally or alternatively, the AP may schedule updates by considering the number of associated STAs. Additionally or alternatively, the AP may schedule updates by considering the location and / or mobility of the AP. Additionally or alternatively, the AP may schedule updates by considering the link performance of the associated STAs. Additionally or alternatively, the AP may schedule updates by considering the Quality of Service (QoS) of the type of traffic being transmitted.

[0134] Depending on several factors, the AP can signal each address / parameter update operation individually. Additionally or alternatively, the AP can schedule the next address / parameter update operation to the associated STA. In some examples, the associated STAs receive the address / parameter update time and the AP's new address / parameters, thus enabling them to associate with and / or maintain a link with the AP.

[0135] Depending on several factors, the AP can choose its AP address / parameter update mode. For example, the AP can randomly (or substantially randomly) switch channels (e.g., Figures 5A to 5C ) or new AP instance creation and conversion (e.g., Figures 3A to 3H and Figure 4 Choose between )

[0136] Figure 6An exemplary method 600 for supporting and implementing address and parameter modification of a wireless system for APs and / or STAs, according to some aspects of this disclosure, is shown. For convenience and not limitation, further details can be found regarding... Figure 1 Element descriptions up to Figure 5 Figure 6 Method 600 can represent the operation of an electronic device (e.g., an AP as discussed in this disclosure), which implements address and parameter modifications of the AP and / or STA. Method 600 can also be... Figure 2 System 200 and / or Figure 8 The method is executed by computer system 800. However, method 600 is not limited to the specific aspects depicted in the figures, and other systems may be used to execute the method, as those skilled in the art will understand. It should be understood that not all operations may be necessary, and these operations may not be compatible with... Figure 6 Execute in the same order as shown.

[0137] At point 602, a first electronic device (e.g., an AP) communicates with a second electronic device (e.g., a STA), which associates itself with the first electronic device using a first address and first parameters. According to some aspects, the second electronic device is associated with a first AP instance of the first electronic device.

[0138] At position 604, the first electronic device (e.g., an access point, AP) determines a second address and a second parameter of the first electronic device. According to some aspects, the second address differs from the first address, and / or the second parameter differs from the first parameter. According to some aspects, the second address and the second parameter are used for a second AP instance of the first electronic device.

[0139] At 606, the first electronic device (e.g., AP) transmits a frame to the second electronic device (e.g., STA) to indicate that a transition from the first AP instance to the second AP instance has occurred. In some examples, this frame is a BTM request frame. In some examples, this frame is a channel switching notification frame.

[0140] At 608, the first electronic device (e.g., AP) communicates with the second electronic device (e.g., STA) using the second address and the second parameters.

[0141] Based on some aspects, and as mentioned above regarding Figure 3AAs discussed, prior to determining the second address and second parameters at 604, a first electronic device (e.g., an AP) is configured to communicate with a second electronic device (e.g., a STA) using a first AP instance of the first electronic device. In this example, operation 604 may further include activating the second AP instance of the first electronic device. In this example, method 600 may further include transmitting a beacon to the second electronic device using the second AP instance, wherein the second address and second parameters are associated with the second AP instance, and the beacon includes the second address and second parameters. Operation 606 may include transmitting a BTM request frame to the second electronic device using the first AP instance. In this example, operation 600 may include performing an association procedure using the second AP instance, with the second address and second parameters. Method 600 may further include terminating the first AP instance of the electronic device.

[0142] In some examples, a BTM request frame may include at least one of the following: a notification that a first electronic device is transitioning to a second AP instance, information associated with the time when the second AP instance starts up, a request to modify the address and one or more parameters of the second electronic device, or information associated with the time when the first AP instance terminates.

[0143] In some examples, a first AP instance of a first electronic device (e.g., an AP) is associated with a transceiver operating at a first channel, and a second AP instance is started using the transceiver operating at the first channel. Alternatively, the first AP instance is associated with a transceiver operating at a first channel, and a second AP instance is started using a transceiver operating at a second channel. Alternatively, the first AP instance is associated with a transceiver, and a second AP instance is started using a second transceiver of the first electronic device.

[0144] In another example, and as mentioned above... Figure 3B As discussed, prior to determining the second address and second parameters at 604, the first electronic device (e.g., an AP) may communicate with the second electronic device using a first AP instance of the first electronic device. In this example, method 600 may further include transmitting a BTM request frame to the second electronic device using the first AP instance. Operation 604 may further include activating the second AP instance of the first electronic device. Method 600 may further include transmitting a beacon to the second electronic device using the second AP instance. The second address and second parameters are associated with the second AP instance, and the beacon may include the second address and second parameters. Operation 606 may include terminating the first AP instance of the first electronic device. In this example, operation 608 may include performing an association procedure using the second AP instance, with the second address and second parameters.

[0145] Based on some aspects, and as mentioned above regarding Figure 4As discussed, before determining the second address and second parameters at 604, the first electronic device (e.g., the first physical AP) can communicate with the second electronic device (e.g., the STA). Method 600 may further include receiving an optional BTM query frame from the second electronic device and transmitting a BTM request frame to the second electronic device. The BTM request frame may include at least one of the following: a notification that the second electronic device will switch to the second physical AP, information associated with the time when the second physical AP is available, a request to modify the address and one or more parameters of the second electronic device, or information associated with the time when the first physical AP instance is unavailable. Method 600 may further include receiving a BTM response frame from the second electronic device. The BTM response frame may include the address and / or parameters (or modified address and / or parameters) of the second electronic device. Method 600 may further include the second electronic device switching to associate with the second physical AP. In this example, operation 608 may further include performing an authentication and / or association procedure between the second electronic device and the second physical AP. In this example, operation 608 may also include the second electronic device associated with the second physical AP.

[0146] Based on some aspects, and as mentioned above regarding Figure 5A As discussed, prior to determining the second address and second parameters at 604, the first electronic device can communicate with the second electronic device using a first AP instance of the first electronic device operating on the first channel. In this example, operation 604 may further include selecting a second channel, different from the first channel, for operating the second AP instance. Operation 606 may include transmitting a frame to the second electronic device using the first AP instance. The frame may include the second address, the second parameters, and the second channel. Method 600 may further include switching the operation of the AP to a second AP instance on the second channel and using the second AP instance operating on the second channel, performing an association procedure with the second electronic device using the second address and the second parameters.

[0147] Based on some aspects, and as mentioned above regarding Figure 5B As discussed, prior to determining the second address and second parameters at 604, the first electronic device can communicate with the second electronic device using a first AP instance of the first electronic device operating on the first channel. In this example, operation 604 may further include selecting a second channel, different from the first channel, for operating the second AP instance. Operation 606 may include transmitting a frame to the second electronic device using the first AP instance. The frame may include the second address, the second parameters, and the second channel. Method 600 may further include receiving a response frame from the second electronic device using the first AP instance operating on the first channel. The response frame may include a modified address and modified parameters of the second electronic device. Method 600 may further include communicating with the second electronic device using the second address and second parameters using the second AP instance operating on the second channel.

[0148] Figure 7 An exemplary method 700 for supporting and implementing address and parameter modification of a wireless system for APs and / or STAs, according to some aspects of this disclosure, is shown. For convenience and not limitation, further details can be found regarding... Figure 1 Element descriptions up to Figure 5 Figure 7 Method 700 can represent the operation of an electronic device (e.g., a STA as discussed in this disclosure), which implements address and parameter modifications of the AP and / or STA. Method 700 can also be... Figure 2 System 200 and / or Figure 8 The method is executed by computer system 800. However, method 700 is not limited to the specific aspects depicted in the figures, and other systems may be used to execute the method, as those skilled in the art will understand. It should be understood that not all operations may be required, and these operations may not be compatible with... Figure 7 Execute in the same order as shown.

[0149] At 702, the first electronic device (e.g., STA) communicates with the second electronic device (e.g., AP) using the first address and first parameters of the second electronic device. In some examples, the first electronic device is associated with the second electronic device. For example, the first electronic device (e.g., STA) communicates with the first AP instance of the second electronic device (e.g., AP) using the first address and first parameters of the first AP instance of the second electronic device.

[0150] At 704, the first electronic device (e.g., STA) receives a second address and a second parameter associated with the second electronic device (e.g., AP). The second address is different from the first address, and the second parameter is different from the first parameter. In some examples, the second address and the second parameter are associated with a second AP instance of the second electronic device.

[0151] At point 706, the first electronic device (e.g., STA) receives a frame from the second electronic device indicating a switch to a second AP instance. In some examples, this frame is a BTM request frame. In some examples, this frame is a channel switching notification frame.

[0152] At point 708, the first electronic device (e.g., STA) communicates with the second electronic device (e.g., AP) using the second address and second parameters of the second electronic device. For example, the first electronic device (e.g., STA) communicates with the second AP instance of the second electronic device (e.g., AP) using the second address and second parameters of the second AP instance.

[0153] Based on some aspects, and as mentioned above regarding Figure 3AAs discussed, prior to receiving the second address and second parameters at 704, the first electronic device (e.g., STA) can communicate with a first AP instance of the second electronic device (e.g., AP). In this example, method 700 may further include receiving a beacon from the second AP instance of the second electronic device. The second address and second parameters may be associated with the second AP instance of the second electronic device, and the beacon may include the second address and second parameters. In this example, operation 706 may include receiving a BTM request frame from the first AP instance of the second electronic device. According to some aspects, operation 708 may include performing an association procedure with the second AP instance of the second electronic device using the second address and second parameters of the second electronic device.

[0154] Based on some aspects, and as mentioned above regarding Figure 3B As discussed, prior to receiving the second address and second parameters at 704, the first electronic device (e.g., STA) can communicate with a first AP instance of the second electronic device (e.g., AP). In this example, operation 706 may further include receiving a BTM request frame from the first AP instance of the second electronic device. Method 700 may further include receiving a beacon from the second AP instance of the second electronic device. In some examples, the second address and second parameters are associated with the second AP instance of the second electronic device, and the beacon includes the second address and second parameters. According to some aspects, operation 708 may include performing an association procedure with the second AP instance of the second electronic device using the second address and second parameters of the second electronic device.

[0155] Based on some aspects, and as mentioned above regarding Figure 4 As discussed, before receiving the second address and second parameters at 704, the first electronic device (e.g., STA) can communicate with the second electronic device (e.g., the first physical AP). Method 700 may further include transmitting an optional BTM query frame to the second electronic device and receiving a BTM request frame from the second electronic device. The BTM request frame may include at least one of the following: a notification that the second electronic device will switch to the second physical AP, information associated with the time when the second physical AP is available, a request to modify the address and one or more parameters of the second electronic device, or information associated with the time when the first physical AP instance is unavailable. Method 700 may further include transmitting a BTM response frame to the second electronic device. The BTM response frame may include the address and / or parameters (or modified address and / or parameters) of the second electronic device. Method 700 may further include the first electronic device switching to associate with the second physical AP. In this example, operation 708 may further include performing an authentication and / or association procedure between the first electronic device and the second physical AP. In this example, operation 708 may also include the first electronic device associating with the second physical AP.

[0156] Based on some aspects, and as mentioned above regarding Figure 5A As discussed, prior to receiving the second address and second parameters at 704, the first electronic device (e.g., STA) can communicate with a first AP instance of a second electronic device operating at the first channel. In this example, operation 706 may include receiving a frame from the first AP instance of the second electronic device, including the second address, second parameters, and a second channel, which is different from the first channel, at which the second AP instance of the second electronic device will operate. In this example, operation 708 may also include using the second AP instance of the second electronic device operating at the second channel to perform an association process using the second address and second parameters of the second electronic device.

[0157] Based on some aspects, and as mentioned above regarding Figure 5B As discussed, prior to receiving the second address and second parameters at 704, the first electronic device (e.g., STA) can communicate with a first AP instance of a second electronic device operating on the first channel. In this example, operation 700 may include receiving a frame from the first AP instance of the second electronic device, including a second address, second parameters, and a second channel, which is different from the first channel, at which the second AP instance of the second electronic device will operate. Method 700 may also include transmitting a frame (e.g., a channel switching notification frame) to the first AP instance of the second electronic device. In this example, operation 708 may also include communicating with the second AP instance of the second electronic device operating on the second channel using the second address and second parameters of the second electronic device.

[0158] One or more computer systems, such as Figure 8 The computer system 800 shown implements these aspects. The computer system 800 can be any well-known computer capable of performing the functions described herein, such as… Figure 1 Equipment 110, 120, 150 or Figure 2 The computer system 800 includes one or more processors (also referred to as a central processing unit or CPU), such as processor 804. Processor 804 is connected to communication infrastructure 806 (e.g., a bus). The computer system 800 also includes user input / output devices 803, such as a monitor, keyboard, pointing device, etc., that communicate with communication infrastructure 806 via user input / output interface 802. The computer system 800 also includes main memory or primary memory 808, such as random access memory (RAM). Main memory 808 may include one or more levels of cache. Main memory 808 stores control logic (e.g., computer software) and / or data.

[0159] The computer system 800 may also include one or more auxiliary storage devices or memories 810. Auxiliary storage 810 may include, for example, a hard disk drive 812 and / or a removable storage device or drive 814. The removable storage drive 814 may be a floppy disk drive, a magnetic tape drive, an optical disk drive, an optical storage device, a magnetic tape backup device, and / or any other storage device / drive.

[0160] Removable storage drive 814 can interact with removable storage unit 818. Removable storage unit 818 includes a computer-usable or readable storage device on which computer software (control logic components) and / or data are stored. Removable storage unit 818 can be a floppy disk, magnetic tape, optical disc, DVD, optical storage disk, and / or any other computer data storage device. Removable storage drive 814 reads from and / or writes to removable storage unit 818 in a well-known manner.

[0161] According to some aspects, auxiliary storage 810 may include other means, tools, or other methods for allowing computer programs and / or other instructions and / or data to be accessed by computer system 800. Such means, tools, or other methods may include, for example, removable storage unit 822 and interface 820. Examples of removable storage unit 822 and interface 820 may include a program box and box interface (such as those found in video game devices), a removable memory chip (such as EPROM or PROM) and associated sockets, memory sticks and USB ports, memory cards and associated memory card slots, and / or any other removable storage unit and associated interface.

[0162] Computer system 800 may also include a communication or network interface 824. Communication interface 824 enables computer system 800 to communicate and interact with any combination of remote devices, remote networks, remote entities, etc. (individually and collectively referred to by reference numeral 828). For example, communication interface 824 may allow computer system 800 to communicate with remote device 828 via communication path 826, which may be wired and / or wireless, and may include any combination of LAN, WAN, Internet, etc. Control logic and / or data may be transmitted to and from computer system 800 via communication path 826.

[0163] The operations described in the foregoing aspects can be implemented in various configurations and architectures. Therefore, some or all of the operations described in the foregoing aspects can be performed in hardware, software, or both. In some aspects, tangible, non-transitory devices or articles of art include tangible, non-transitory computer-usable or readable media on which control logic components (software) are stored, also referred to herein as computer program products or program storage devices. This includes, but is not limited to, computer system 800, main memory 808, secondary memory 810, and removable storage units 818 and 822, and tangible articles embodying any combination thereof. When executed by one or more data processing devices (such as computer system 800), such data processing devices cause such data processing devices to operate as described herein.

[0164] Based on the teachings contained in this disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art how to use [other methods]. Figure 8 Other data processing devices, computer systems, and / or computer architectures besides those shown may be used to make and use aspects of this disclosure. In particular, aspects may operate in conjunction with software, hardware, and / or operating system implementations other than those described herein.

[0165] It should be understood that the Detailed Description section, rather than the Summary and Abstract section, is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The Summary and Abstract section may set forth one or more, but not all, exemplary aspects of this disclosure as contemplated by the inventors, and is therefore not intended to limit this disclosure or the appended claims in any way.

[0166] Although this disclosure has been described herein with reference to exemplary aspects of exemplary fields and applications, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited thereto. Other aspects and modifications are possible and are within the scope and spirit of this disclosure. For example, and without limiting the generality of this paragraph, the aspects are not limited to the software, hardware, firmware, and / or entities shown in the figures and / or described herein. Furthermore, the aspects (whether explicitly described herein or not) have significant utility for fields and applications beyond those described herein.

[0167] The aspects have been described here using functional building blocks that illustrate specific implementations of functions and their relationships. For ease of description, the boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein. Alternative boundaries can be defined as long as the specified functions and relationships (or their equivalents) are performed appropriately. Furthermore, alternative aspects may perform functional blocks, steps, operations, methods, etc., in a different order than that described herein.

[0168] References to “an aspect,” “aspect,” “some aspects,” “example,” “some examples,” or similar phrases herein indicate that the aspect described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but each aspect may not necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such terminology does not necessarily refer to the same aspect. Additionally, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with an aspect, whether or not it is explicitly mentioned or described herein, the combination of those features, structures, or characteristics with other aspects is within the knowledge of a person skilled in the art.

[0169] The breadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited by any of the foregoing exemplary aspects, but should be defined solely by the following claims and their equivalents.

[0170] As described above, various aspects of this technology may include the collection and use of data available from a variety of sources to, for example, improve or enhance functionality. This disclosure contemplates that, in some instances, such collected data may include personal information that uniquely identifies or can be used to contact or locate specific individuals. Such personal information may include demographic data, location-based data, telephone numbers, email addresses, Twitter IDs, home addresses, data or records related to a user's health or fitness level (e.g., vital sign measurements, medication information, exercise information), date of birth, or any other identifying information or personal information. This disclosure recognizes that the use of such personal information in this technology can be used to benefit users.

[0171] This disclosure assumes that entities responsible for collecting, analyzing, disclosing, transmitting, storing, or otherwise using such personal information data will comply with established privacy policies and / or privacy practices. Specifically, such entities should implement and adhere to privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining the privacy and security of personal information data. Such policies should be easily accessible to users and should be updated as data collection and / or use change. Personal information from users should be collected for the entity's lawful and reasonable purposes and not shared or sold outside of these lawful uses. Furthermore, such collection / sharing should only occur upon receipt of the user's informed consent. In addition, such entities should consider taking any necessary steps to protect and safeguard access to such personal information data and ensure that others with access to such personal information data comply with their privacy policies and processes. Additionally, such entities may be subject to third-party evaluations to demonstrate their compliance with widely accepted privacy policies and practices. Furthermore, policies and practices should be adapted to the specific types of personal information data collected and / or accessed, and to applicable laws and standards, including specific considerations regarding jurisdiction. For example, in the United States, the collection or access to certain health data may be governed by federal and / or state laws, such as the Health Insurance Transfer and Accountability Act (HIPAA); while in other countries, health data may be subject to other regulations and policies and should be handled accordingly. Therefore, different privacy practices should be maintained for different types of personal data in each country.

[0172] Regardless of the foregoing, this disclosure also anticipates implementation schemes for users to selectively block the use or access to personal information data. That is, this disclosure anticipates providing hardware and / or software components to prevent or block access to such personal information data. For example, the technology can be configured to allow users to selectively participate in the collection of personal information data at any time during or after service registration via an "opt-in" or "opt-out" option. In addition to providing "opt-in" and "opt-out" options, this disclosure envisions providing notifications related to access to or use of personal information. For example, users may be notified when downloading an application that their personal information data will be accessed, and then reminded again just before the application accesses the personal information data.

[0173] Furthermore, the purpose of this disclosure is to manage and process personal information data to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use. Once data is no longer needed, this risk can be minimized by limiting data collection and deleting data. Additionally, and where applicable, including in certain health-related applications, data deidentification can be used to protect user privacy. Deidentification can be facilitated, where appropriate, by removing specific identifiers (e.g., date of birth, etc.), controlling the amount or specificity of stored data (e.g., collecting location data at the city level rather than the address level), controlling how data is stored (e.g., aggregating data among users), and / or other methods.

[0174] Therefore, while this disclosure broadly covers the use of personal information data to implement one or more of the various disclosed embodiments, it is also contemplated that various embodiments can be implemented without access to such personal information data. That is, various embodiments of the present invention will not be rendered inoperable due to the absence of all or part of such personal information data.

Claims

1. An access point multi-link device (AP MLD), comprising: transceiver; as well as A processor, coupled to the transceiver and configured to: The transceiver is used to communicate with the site, which associates the first AP instance of the AP MLD with the first address of the first access point (AP) instance of the AP MLD; Determine a second address of a second AP instance of the AP MLD, wherein the second address is different from the first address; The first AP instance is used to transmit a frame to the site indicating the transition to the second AP instance; Start the second AP instance of the AP MLD; Terminate the first AP instance of the AP MLD; and The second AP instance using the AP MLD communicates with the site using the second address.

2. The AP MLD of claim 1, wherein the frame includes a Basic Service Set (BSS) Transition Management (BTM) request frame, and the processor is further configured to: The second AP instance is used to transmit a beacon to the site, wherein the beacon includes the second address; and Before terminating the first AP instance of the AP MLD, the second AP instance is used to execute the association program using the second address.

3. The AP MLD of claim 2, wherein the BTM request frame includes at least one of the following: a notification that the APMLD is transitioning to the second AP instance, a request to modify the address and one or more parameters of the site, or information associated with the time when the first AP instance terminates.

4. The AP MLD of claim 1, wherein the frame includes a Basic Service Set (BSS) Transition Management (BTM) request frame, and the processor is further configured to: The second AP instance is used to transmit a beacon to the site, wherein the beacon includes the second address; and After terminating the first AP instance of the AP MLD, the second AP instance is used, and the second address association procedure is used.

5. The AP MLD of claim 4, wherein the BTM request frame includes at least one of the following: a notification that the APMLD is transitioning to the second AP instance, information associated with the time when the second AP instance starts, a request to modify the address and one or more parameters of the site, or information associated with the time when the first AP instance terminates.

6. The AP MLD according to claim 1, wherein: The frame includes the second address and the second channel. Before determining the second address, the processor is configured to communicate with the site using the first AP instance operating at the first channel, and The processor is further configured to: Select a second channel, different from the first channel, to operate the second AP instance; Switch to the second AP instance on the second channel; as well as Using the second AP instance operating at the second channel, the site's association procedure is executed using the second address.

7. The AP MLD according to claim 1, wherein: The frame includes the second address and the second channel. Before determining the second address, the processor is configured to communicate with the site using the first AP instance operating at the first channel, and The processor is further configured to: Select a second channel, different from the first channel, to operate the second AP instance; The first AP instance operating at the first channel receives a response frame from the site, wherein the response frame includes the modified address of the site; Switch to the second AP instance on the second channel; as well as The second address is used to communicate with the site using the second AP instance operating at the second channel.

8. A method for wireless communication, comprising: The site communicates with the first access point (AP) instance of the access point multi-link device (AP MLD), and the site associates the first address of the first AP instance with the AP MLD. The second address of the second AP instance of the AP MLD is determined by the AP MLD, wherein the second address is different from the first address; The first AP instance is used to transmit a frame to the site indicating the transition to the second AP instance; The second AP instance that enables the AP MLD; Terminate the first AP instance of the AP MLD; and The second AP instance using the AP MLD communicates with the site using the second address.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the frame comprises a Basic Service Set (BSS) Transformation Management (BTM) request frame, and the method further comprises: The second AP instance is used to transmit a beacon to the site, wherein the beacon includes the second address; as well as Before terminating the first AP instance of the AP MLD, the second AP instance is used to execute the association program using the second address.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the BTM request frame includes at least one of the following: a notification that the APMLD is transitioning to the second AP instance, a request to modify the address and one or more parameters of the site, or information associated with the time when the first AP instance terminates.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein the frame comprises a Basic Service Set (BSS) Transformation Management (BTM) request frame, and the method further comprises: The second AP instance is used to transmit a beacon to the site, wherein the beacon includes the second address; as well as After terminating the first AP instance of the AP MLD, the second AP instance is used to execute the associated program using the second address.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the BTM request frame includes at least one of the following: a notification that the APMLD is transitioning to the second AP instance, information associated with the time when the second AP instance starts, a request to modify the address and one or more parameters of the site, and information associated with the time when the first AP instance terminates.

13. The method of claim 8, wherein the frame includes the second address and the second channel, and the method further comprises: Before determining the second address, the first AP instance of the AP MLD operating at the first channel communicates with the site; Select a second channel, different from the first channel, to operate the second AP instance; Switch to the second AP instance on the second channel; as well as Using the second AP instance operating at the second channel, the site's association procedure is executed using the second address.

14. The method of claim 8, wherein the frame includes the second address and the second channel, and the method further comprises: Before determining the second address, the first AP instance of the AP MLD operating at the first channel communicates with the site; Select a second channel, different from the first channel, to operate the second AP instance; The first AP instance operating at the first channel receives a response frame from the site, wherein the response frame includes the modified address of the site; Switch to the second AP instance on the second channel; as well as The second address is used to communicate with the site using the second AP instance operating at the second channel.

15. The method of claim 8, wherein determining the second address of the second AP instance of the AP MLD includes modifying the first address.

16. A site, comprising: transceiver; as well as A processor, coupled to the transceiver and configured to: The transceiver communicates with the first AP instance of the first access point (AP) instance of the access point multi-link device access point (AP MLD) using the first address of the first access point (AP) instance of the AP MLD, wherein the site is associated with the first AP instance of the AP MLD; Receive a second address associated with a second AP instance of the AP MLD from the AP MLD, wherein the second address is different from the first address; Receive a frame from the AP MLD indicating the conversion of the second AP instance to the AP MLD; as well as After the first AP instance is terminated, the second AP instance of the AP MLD is used to communicate with the AP MLD using the second address of the second AP instance of the AP MLD.

17. The site of claim 16, wherein the frame comprises a Basic Service Set (BSS) Transformation Management (BTM) request frame, and the processor is further configured to: Receive a beacon from the second AP instance of the AP MLD, wherein the beacon includes the second address; and The association procedure of the second AP instance of the AP MLD is executed using the second address of the second AP instance of the AP MLD.

18. The site according to claim 16, wherein: Before receiving the second address associated with the second AP instance of the AP MLD, the processor is configured to communicate with the first AP instance of the AP MLD operating at the first channel. The frame includes the second address and a second channel different from the first channel, wherein the second AP instance of the AP MLD will operate on the second channel, and The processor is further configured to: The association process is performed using the second AP instance of the AP MLD operating at the second channel, and the second address of the second AP instance of the AP MLD.

19. The site according to claim 16, wherein: Before receiving the second address associated with the second AP instance of the AP MLD, the processor is configured to communicate with the first AP instance of the AP MLD operating at the first channel. The frame includes the second address and a second channel different from the first channel, wherein the second AP instance of the AP MLD will operate on the second channel, and The processor is further configured to: Communicate with the second AP instance of the AP MLD that operates at the second channel and uses the second address of the second AP instance.

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