Method and device for communication and computer readable medium

Abstract

Example embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods, devices, and computer readable media for synchronizing changes in identifiers for device identification. In an example method, a first device determines a parameter set for identification information generation of the first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and a second device. The first device generates first identification information and second identification information of the first device based on the parameter set. The first device sends a first transmission including the first identification information to the second device. The first device detects a second transmission from the second device using the first identification information and the second identification information. In this manner, the first device may be prevented from being tracked, and signaling overhead may be reduced. Meanwhile, compared with a traditional solution, lower implementation complexity and storage can be realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Example embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to the field of telecommunications, and in particular, to methods, devices, and computer-readable media for communication to enhance privacy for IEEE 802.11 in an Extended Service Set (ESS) network. Background Art

[0002] In the traditional IEEE 802.11 standard, a Station (STA) uses a fixed unencrypted Media Access Control (MAC) address in the frame header, which causes security problems because others are allowed to track the STA based on its MAC address. Here, a "station" refers to a device as a terminal, rather than an Access Point (AP) as a network device in a wireless network (e.g., in an ESS network). To prevent the STA from being tracked and improve the privacy of IEEE 802.11, the IEEE 802.11bh and 802.11bi groups focus on using a Random MAC Address (RMA) to identify the STA without reducing user privacy. IEEE 802.11bh and 802.11bi focus on STA privacy protection through RMA in the pre-association phase, while the STA still does not change its MAC address after association (i.e., in the post-association phase). Summary of the Invention

[0003] Generally, example embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods, devices, and computer-readable media for communication, e.g., to enhance the privacy of IEEE 802.11bi and 802.11bh in an ESS network, in particular, to enhance the randomized and changed MAC address (RCM) of the STA device identifier.

[0004] In a first aspect, a first device is provided. The first device includes at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first device to: determine a parameter set for generating identification information for the first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and a second device; generate first identification information and second identification information for the first device based on the parameter set; send a first transmission including the first identification information to the second device; and use the first identification information and the second identification information to detect a second transmission from the second device. The first device can be a STA device or an AP device in an ESS network.

[0005] In a second aspect, a second device is provided. The second device includes at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the second device to: determine a parameter set for generating identification information for a first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and the second device; generate third identification information and fourth identification information of the first device based on the parameter set; use the third identification information and the fourth identification information to detect a first transmission from the first device; and send a second transmission including the third identification information to the first device. The second device may be an AP device or a STA device in an ESS network.

[0006] In a third aspect, a method implemented in a first device according to the first aspect is provided. The method includes: at the first device, determining a parameter set for generating identification information for the first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and the second device; generating first identification information and second identification information of the first device based on the parameter set; sending a first transmission including the first identification information to the second device; and using the first identification information and the second identification information to detect a second transmission from the second device.

[0007] In a fourth aspect, a method implemented at a second device according to the second aspect is provided. The method includes: at the second device, determining a parameter set for generating identification information for the first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and the second device; generating third identification information and fourth identification information of the first device based on the parameter set; using the third identification information and the fourth identification information to detect a first transmission from the first device; and sending a second transmission including the third identification information to the first device.

[0008] In a fifth aspect, an apparatus implemented in a first device according to the first aspect is provided. The apparatus includes: means for determining, at the first device, a parameter set for generating identification information for the first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and the second device; means for generating first identification information and second identification information of the first device based on the parameter set; means for sending a first transmission including the first identification information to the second device; and means for using the first identification information and the second identification information to detect a second transmission from the second device.

[0009] In a sixth aspect, there is provided an apparatus implemented in a second device according to the second aspect. The apparatus includes: means for determining, at the second device, a parameter set for generating identification information for a first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and the second device; means for generating third identification information and fourth identification information for the first device based on the parameter set; means for detecting a first transmission from the first device using the third identification information and the fourth identification information; and means for sending a second transmission including the third identification information to the first device.

[0010] In a seventh aspect, there is provided a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon. The instructions, when executed on at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform the method of any one of the third aspect or the fourth aspect.

[0011] In an eighth aspect, there is provided a computer program including instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to at least: determine a parameter set for generating identification information for a first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and a second device; generate first identification information and second identification information for the first device based on the parameter set; send a first transmission including the first identification information to the second device; and detect a second transmission from the second device using the first identification information and the second identification information.

[0012] In a ninth aspect, there is provided a computer program including instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to at least: determine a parameter set for generating identification information for a first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and a second device; generate third identification information and fourth identification information for the first device based on the parameter set; detect a first transmission from the first device using the third identification information and the fourth identification information; and send a second transmission including the third identification information to the first device.

[0013] In a tenth aspect, there is provided a first device according to the first aspect. The first device includes: a determination circuit system configured to determine a parameter set for generating identification information for the first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and a second device; a generation circuit system configured to generate third identification information and fourth identification information for the first device based on the parameter set; a detection circuit system configured to detect a first transmission from the first device using the third identification information and the fourth identification information; and a sending circuit system configured to send a second transmission including the third identification information to the first device. The first device may be a STA device or an AP device in an ESS network.

[0014] In an eleventh aspect, a second device according to the second aspect is provided. The second device includes: a determination circuit system configured to determine a parameter set for generating identification information for a first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and the second device; a generation circuit system configured to generate third identification information and fourth identification information for the first device based on the parameter set; a detection circuit system configured to detect a first transmission from the first device using the third identification information and the fourth identification information; and a transmission circuit system configured to send a second transmission including the third identification information to the first device. The second device may be an AP device or an STA device in an ESS network.

[0015] It should be understood that the Summary of the Invention section is not intended to identify key or essential features of embodiments of the present disclosure, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Through the following description, other features of the present disclosure will become readily understood. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Some example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0017] Figure 1 An example of a network environment in which some example embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented is illustrated;

[0018] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a communication process according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0019] Figure 3A Another flowchart illustrating another communication process according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0020] Figure 3B Another flowchart illustrating another communication process according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0021] Figure 4 An example process of frame transmission according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0022] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an example method implemented at a first device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0023] Figure 6 Another flowchart illustrating an example method implemented at a second device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated; and

[0024] Figure 7 A simplified block diagram of a device suitable for implementing some example embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated; and

[0025] Figure 8The block diagram illustrates an example of a computer-readable medium according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Throughout the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements.

[0027] Throughout this document, the following terms defined below may be referenced.

[0028] ACKA: Acknowledgment

[0029] AP: Access Point

[0030] ESS: Extended Service Set

[0031] EAPOL: Extensible Authentication Protocol over LAN

[0032] ID: Identifier

[0033] IoT: Internet of Things

[0034] MAC: Media Access Control

[0035] RCM: Randomized and Changed MAC Address

[0036] RMA: Random MAC Address

[0037] STA: Station Detailed Description

[0038] The principles of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to some example embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are described for illustrative purposes only and help those skilled in the art understand and implement the present disclosure, and do not represent any limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. The disclosure described herein can be implemented in various other ways than those described below.

[0039] In the following description and claims, unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0040] In the present disclosure, references to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", and "example embodiments" etc. indicate that the described embodiments may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, but not every embodiment must include the specific features, structures, or characteristics. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Further, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, those skilled in the art will recognize that, whether or not explicitly described, combining such features, structures, or characteristics with other embodiments is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0041] It should be understood that although terms such as "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the exemplary embodiments, the first element may be referred to as the second element, and similarly, the second element may be referred to as the first element. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed terms.

[0042] The terms used herein are only for describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. The singular forms "a", "an", and "the" as used herein also include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Further understood, the terms "comprises", "comprising", "has", "having", "includes", and / or "including" when used herein specify the presence of the stated features, elements, and / or components, etc., but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0043] As used in this application, the term "circuitry" may refer to one or more or all of the following:

[0044] (a) A pure hardware circuit implementation (such as an implementation using only analog and / or digital circuitry), and

[0045] (b) A combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as (if applicable):

[0046] (i) A combination of (multiple) analog and / or digital hardware circuitry and software / firmware, and

[0047] (ii) Any portion of (multiple) hardware processors (including (multiple) digital signal processors), software, and (multiple) memories with software that work together to cause a device (such as a mobile phone or a server) to perform various functions), and (c) (multiple) hardware circuits and / or (multiple) processors, such as (multiple) microprocessors or a portion of (multiple) microprocessors, which require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but the software may not be present when not needed for operation.

[0048] The definition of circuitry is suitable for all uses of the term in this application, including in any claims. As another example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also encompasses implementations of only hardware circuits or processors (or multiple processors) or a portion of a hardware circuit or processor and their (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, if applicable to a particular claim element, the term circuitry also encompasses a baseband integrated circuit or a processor integrated circuit for a mobile device, or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0049] As used herein, the term "communication network" refers to a network that complies with any suitable communication standard, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), High Speed Packet Access (HSPA), NarrowBand Internet of Things (NB-IoT), Wireless Fidelity (WiFi), etc. In addition, the communication between the terminal device and the network device in the communication network can be performed according to any suitable generation of communication protocols, including but not limited to the fourth generation (4G), 4.5G, future fifth generation (5G), IEEE 802.11 communication protocols, and / or any other protocols known currently or to be developed in the future. Embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to various communication systems. Considering the rapid development of communication, of course, there will also be future types of communication technologies and systems that can be used to embody the present disclosure. It should not be regarded as limiting the scope of the present disclosure to the above systems.

[0050] As used herein, the term "network device" refers to a node in a communication network through which a terminal device accesses the network and receives services from the network. Depending on the terms and technologies applied, the network device can refer to a base station (BS) or an access point (AP), such as Node B (NodeB or NB), evolved Node B (eNodeB or eNB), NR NB (also known as gNB), remote radio unit (RRU), radio header (RH), remote radio head (RRH), WiFi device, relay, low-power node (such as femto, pico), etc. In the following description, the terms "network device", "AP device", "AP", and "access point" can be used interchangeably.

[0051] The term "terminal device" refers to any terminal device capable of wireless communication. By way of example and not limitation, a terminal device may also be referred to as a communication device, user equipment (UE), subscriber station (SS), portable subscriber station, mobile station (MS), station (STA) or station device or access terminal (AT). Terminal devices may include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, cellular phones, smart phones, IP voice (VoIP) phones, wireless local loop phones, tablets, wearable terminal devices, personal digital assistants (PDA), portable computers, desktop computers, image capture terminal devices (such as digital cameras), game terminal devices, music storage and playback devices, in-vehicle wireless terminal devices, wireless endpoints, mobile stations, laptop embedded devices (LEE), laptop mounted devices (LME), USB dongles, smart devices, wireless customer premise equipment (CPE), Internet of Things (IoT) devices, watches or other wearable devices, head-mounted displays (HMD), vehicles, drones, medical devices and applications (e.g., remote surgery), industrial devices and applications (e.g., robots and / or other wireless devices operating in an industrial and / or automated processing chain environment), consumer electronic devices, devices operating on commercial and / or industrial wireless networks, etc. In the following description, the terms "station", "station device", "STA", "terminal device", "communication device", "terminal", "user equipment" and "UE" may be used interchangeably.

[0052] As described above, in the traditional IEEE 802.11 standard, the STA uses a fixed unencrypted MAC address in the frame header, which causes security problems because others are allowed to track the STA based on its MAC address. To prevent the STA from being tracked and to improve (or enhance) the privacy of 802.11, the IEEE 802.11bh and 802.11bi groups focus on using RMA to identify the STA. IEEE 802.11bh and 802.11bi focus on protecting STA privacy through RMA in the pre-association phase, while the STA still does not change its MAC address after association (i.e., in the post-association phase).

[0053] Specifically, IEEE 802.11bh proposes to allocate one or more device identification information (e.g., ID or RMA) for communication between an STA and an AP in an association (e.g., the first association), and use at least one of the device identification information in a (multiple) subsequent association (e.g., the second association). However, when the STA is allocated a small amount of device identification information, the STA needs to frequently change the device identification information to prevent itself from being tracked. The frequent change of the device identification information will result in additional power consumption and communication overhead, which is not beneficial to low-cost / power or / and uncertified terminal devices (e.g., IoT devices). On the other hand, when the STA is allocated a large amount of device identification information, both the AP and the STA must process / store a large amount of information and detect transmissions from the other side for device identification. Therefore, the implementation complexity and power consumption at the AP and the STA will increase as the amount of device identification information increases.

[0054] IEEE 802.11bi proposes a MAC address rotation solution for the STA in the air to solve this problem. However, MAC address rotation may require the non-AP STA to frequently disassociate / reassociate to change its MAC, and these frequent attempts to change the MAC address may lead to a degraded user experience and an increase in management frame overhead. Here, the mention of IEEE 802.11bh / bi is only for illustrative purposes; the communication protocols to which the solution proposed in this document can be applied are not limited to IEEE 802.11bh / bi. On the contrary, any other communication protocol to which the solution proposed in this document can be applied falls within the scope of this disclosure.

[0055] In this disclosure, a solution is introduced for synchronizing the change of the STA identifier at both the AP and the STA based on the frame transmission acknowledgment (ACK) mechanism in the pre-association phase or / and the post-association phase, which is beneficial to the privacy protection of the STA and has low implementation complexity and signaling overhead. In addition, the proposed solution can be applied to pre-association and / or post-association. Therefore, even in the post-association phase, the identifier of the STA can be changed with low implementation complexity and signaling overhead, thereby reducing the risk of the STA being tracked and protecting privacy.

[0056] This disclosure aims to randomize and change the identifier of the STA. The basic idea of this disclosure is that the AP and the STA can negotiate and determine the shared rules for at least the generation / change of identifiers (e.g., RMA or ID), keys, and counters. After that, the AP and the STA will respectively determine and maintain at least two identifiers for the device identification of the STA in subsequent frame transmissions and receptions, and change the identifiers based on the acknowledgment (ACK). Regarding the determination of the identifiers, in one example, either the AP or the STA can determine the first STA / AP decision identifier based at least on the shared rules, keys, and local counters. In another example, the AP can generate the second AP decision identifier based at least on the shared rules, keys, and local counters minus 1. In another example, the STA generates the second STA decision identifier based at least on the shared rules, keys, and local counters plus 1.

[0057] In addition, the AP and the STA respectively send new frames using their first identifiers, and receive frame transmissions using at least their first identifier and second identifier for the device identification of the STA. For example, the identifier information can be the RMA carried in the MAC header of the frame transmission. Another example is that the identifier information can be any information for device identification other than the RMA (e.g., device ID). In this case, either the AP or the STA needs to indicate the identifier information in the frame transmission, such as through the MAC header of the frame transmission or a new IE in the frame transmission.

[0058] The STA and the AP can change the identifier of the STA based on the acknowledgment status of a certain type of frame transmission initiated by the STA. In one example, the AP can respond to the STA with an ACK and increment its counter by 1 only when it correctly receives a certain type of frame transmission with the same identifier as the local first identifier. In another example, the STA can increment the counter maintained locally only when the STA correctly receives an ACK for a certain type of frame transmission from the AP and at least one of the following conditions is met: (a) there are no outstanding frames for retransmission; (b) the time interval between two changes of the local counter is greater than a threshold; or (c) the frame transmission is the transmission of a request frame such as a probe request, authentication request, association request, or re-association request. In another example, if the AP or the STA changes its counter, it should update the local identifier accordingly.

[0059] In this way, the identifier of the STA (e.g., RMA or device ID) can be randomized and changed according to a certain frame transmission state, thereby preventing the terminal device from being tracked. In addition, according to the transmission confirmation mechanism, the STA identifiers at the AP and the STA can be implicitly and synchronously changed locally, which means that there is less signaling overhead and specification work. At the same time, in order to synchronize the changes of the identifiers for frame transmission and reception, only two identifiers need to be reserved at the STA and the AP respectively. Therefore, compared with the traditional solutions, lower implementation complexity and storage can be achieved.

[0060] Figure 1 FIG. illustrates an example communication system 100 in which some embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented. The communication system 100, which is part of a communication network, includes a first device 120 and a second device 110. For example, the second device 110 can be an access point in an ESS network (e.g., a WiFi device), and the first device 120 can be a STA in the ESS network. Although Figure 1 only one second device 120 and one second device 110 are shown, the number of the first device 120 and the second device 110 is not limited. In other words, there can be one or more first devices 120 and one or more second devices 110 in the network.

[0061] The second device 110 can provide services to the first device 120, and the second device 110 and the first device 120 can communicate data and control information with each other. In some embodiments, the second device 110 and the first device 120 can communicate via a direct link / channel.

[0062] In the system 100, the link from the second device 110 to the first device 120 is referred to as the downlink (DL), and the link from the first device 120 to the second device 110 is referred to as the uplink (UL). In the downlink, the second device 110 is the transmitting (TX) device (or transmitter), and the first device 120 is the receiving (RX) device (or receiver). In the uplink, the first device 120 is the TX device (or transmitter), and the second device 110 is the RX device (or receiver). It should be understood that the second device 110 can provide one or more serving cells. As Figure 1 shown, the second device 110 provides one serving cell 102, and the first device 120 camps on the serving cell 102. In some embodiments, the second device 110 can provide multiple serving cells. It should be understood that Figure 1 the number of the (multiple) serving cells shown is for illustrative purposes only and does not represent any limitation.

[0063] The communication in the communication system 100 can comply with any suitable standards, including but not limited to Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE Evolution, Advanced LTE (LTE-A), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), and Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Wireless Fidelity (WiFi), etc. Additionally, the communication can be performed according to any generation of communication protocols known currently or to be developed in the future. Examples of communication protocols include but are not limited to the first generation (1G), second generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), 4.5G, fifth generation (5G), 5.5G, 5G Advanced Network, sixth generation (6G), or IEEE 802.11 communication protocol.

[0064] It should be understood that Figure 1 the number of devices shown, their connection relationships and types are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent any limitation. The communication system 100 can include any suitable number of devices adapted to implement the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0065] Figure 2 A signaling diagram illustrating a communication process 200 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For discussion purposes only, reference will be made to Figure 1 describe the communication process 200. The communication process 200 can involve a first device 120 and a second device 110.

[0066] In some example embodiments, a first device 120 determines (210) a set of parameters generated for identification information of the first device 120. The set of parameters is common to the first device 120 and a second device 110. Meanwhile, on the other side of the communication, the second device 110 also determines (240) a set of parameters generated for identification information of the first device 120. From the perspective of the first device 120, the set of parameters may be determined by the first device 120 through negotiation with the second device 110 during the association of the first device 120 and the second device 110. From the perspective of the second device 110, the set of parameters may be determined by the second device 110 through negotiation with the first device 120 during the association of the first device 120 and the second device 110. The negotiation may be initiated by the first device 120 or the second device 110. In one example, the set of parameters may include at least one of the following: rules for generating first identification information and second identification information, or a counter for providing a count as an input parameter to the rules. Additionally, the set of parameters further includes at least one of the following: a key that serves as an input parameter to the rules and is used to distinguish the first device 120 from a third device associated with the second device 110, an identification information pool from which the first identification information and the second identification information are generated based on the rules, or an activation / deactivation indication for activating or deactivating the solution provided in the present disclosure. Specifically, the activation / deactivation indication for activation or deactivation may indicate the activation or deactivation of the first identification information and the second identification information. The rules may be random functions, and the counter may be a random seed of the random function. Additionally, the first device 120 may send the count of a local counter (the counter at the first device 120) encrypted with the key to the second device 110. Alternatively, the second device 110 may send the count of a local counter (the counter at the second device 110) encrypted with the key to the first device 120.

[0067] Furthermore, in some example embodiments, the first device 120 generates (220) first identification information and second identification information of the first device 120 based on the set of parameters. On the other side of the communication, the second device 110 generates (250) third identification information and fourth identification information of the first device 120 based on the set of parameters. For example, each of the first identification information, the second identification information, the third identification information, and the fourth identification information may be or include at least one of the following: an identifier of the first device 120, or a random media access control (MAC) address of the first device 120.

[0068] At the first device 120, when generating (220) the first identification information and the second identification information, the first device 120 may generate the first identification information based on the rule and the count provided by the local counter, and generate the second identification information based on the rule and the count plus a numerical value. The numerical value may be predefined or configured during negotiation of the parameter set with the second device 110. For example, to generate the first identification information and the second identification information, the first device 120 may adopt the rule, where the input parameters of the rule are at least one of the key, the count of the counter, or the identification information pool.

[0069] At the second device 110, when generating (250) the third identification information and the fourth identification information, the second device 110 may generate the third identification information based on the rule and the count provided by the local counter, and generate the fourth identification information based on the rule and the count minus a numerical value, which is the same as the numerical value used by the first device 120 to generate the second identification information. For example, to generate the third identification information and the fourth identification information, the second device 110 may adopt the same manner as the first device 120 to generate the first identification information and the second identification information. In other words, to generate the third identification information and the fourth identification information, the second device 110 may adopt the rule, where the input parameters of the rule are at least one of the key, the count of the counter, and the identification information pool.

[0070] Continuing to refer to Figure 2 , the first device 120 also sends (230) a first transmission 201 to the second device 110. The first transmission 201 includes the first identification information generated by the first device 120. On the other side of the communication, the second device 110 uses the third identification information and the fourth identification information to detect (232) the first transmission 201 from the first device 120. For example, the first transmission 201 may be of a predefined type or a preconfigured type. The predefined type may be predefined in the (multiple) specifications. The preconfigured type may be determined during the negotiation between the first device 120 and the second device 110. The predefined type or the preconfigured type may include at least one of the following: unicast frame transmission, frame transmission during the pre-association phase related to the first device 120 and the second device 110, frame transmission during the association between the first device 120 and the second device 110, management frame transmission, control frame transmission, or data frame transmission.

[0071] For example, at the second device 110, upon detecting the first transmission 201, the second device 110 may compare the first identification information of the first device 120 in the first transmission 201 with the third identification information and the fourth identification information, and based on determining that the first identification information matches the third identification information and the fourth identification information, determine that the first transmission 201 is a valid transmission from the first device 120. In this case, based on determining that the first transmission 201 is a valid transmission from the first device 120, the second device 110 may also send an ACK for the first transmission 201 to the first device 120. Specifically, in one example, based on determining that the first identification information matches the third identification information, the second device 110 may update the parameter set by updating at least one parameter in the parameter set, and update the third identification information and the fourth identification information based on the updated parameter set. When updating at least one parameter in the parameter set, the second device 110 may update at least one parameter based on receiving the first transmission 201. Additionally or alternatively, when updating at least one parameter in the parameter set, the second device 110 may increment the count of a local counter. In another example, based on determining that the first identification information matches the fourth identification information, the second device 110 may keep the third identification information and the fourth identification information unchanged.

[0072] On the other side of the communication, at the first device 120, the second device 120 may receive an ACK for the first transmission 201 from the second device 110. After receiving the ACK for the first transmission 201, the first device 120 may update the parameter set by updating at least one parameter in the parameter set, and update the first identification information and the second identification information based on the updated parameter set. When updating at least one parameter in the parameter set, the first device 120 may update at least one parameter based on receiving the ACK for the first transmission 201. Additionally or alternatively, when updating at least one parameter in the parameter set, the first device 120 may increment the count of a local counter. In some examples, the update of at least one parameter may also be based on at least one of the following: there is no outstanding retransmission at the first device 120, the time elapsed since the counter at the first device 120 was last initialized or incremented exceeds a threshold, or the first transmission 201 is at least one of a probe request, an authentication request, an association request, or a re-association request. The threshold may be negotiated during initialization or determined by the first device 120.

[0073] Sometimes, due to strong interference, the reception of the ACK for the first transmission 201 may fail. In this case, based on determining that the ACK for the first transmission 201 has not been received from the second device 110, the first device 120 may send a retransmission of the first transmission 201 to the second device 110. The retransmission includes the first identification information that has not changed compared to the previous first transmission 201.

[0074] Continue to refer to Figure 2 , the second device 110 sends (260) a second transmission 202 to the first device 120. The second transmission 202 includes third identification information. The second transmission 202 can also be of a predefined type or a preconfigured type. On the other side of the communication, the first device 120 uses the first identification information and the second identification information to detect (262) the second transmission 202 from the second device 110.

[0075] At the first device 120, when the second transmission 202 is detected, the first device 120 can compare the third identification information of the first device 120 in the second transmission 202 with the first identification information and the second identification information. Based on determining that the third identification information matches the first identification information or the second identification information, the first device 120 can determine that the second transmission 202 is a valid transmission for the first device 120. Based on determining that the second transmission 202 is a valid transmission for the first device 120, the first device 120 can send an ACK for the second transmission 202 to the second device 110. In one example, after receiving the second transmission 202 from the second device 110, the first device 120 can keep the first identification information and the second identification information unchanged. In another example, after receiving the second transmission 202 from the second device 110, the first device 120 can update the parameter set by updating at least one parameter in the parameter set, and update the first identification information and the second identification information based on the updated parameter set.

[0076] Similarly, at the first device 120, the count of the local counter is the first count of the first counter at the first device 120, and the first device 120 can receive the second count of the second counter at the second device 110 in the second transmission 202, and synchronize the first count of the first counter with the received second count of the second counter. In other words, the first device 120 can set the first count of the first counter to the received second count of the second counter.

[0077] On the other side of the communication, at the second device 110, the second device 110 can determine whether the ACK of the second transmission 202 is received. Due to strong interference, the reception of the ACK of the second transmission 202 may fail. In this case, based on determining that the ACK for the second transmission 202 is not received from the first device 120, the second device 110 can send a retransmission for the second transmission 202 to the first device 120. The retransmission includes the third identification information that has not changed compared to the previous second transmission 202.

[0078] In some example embodiments, in an ESS, the first device 120 may be a non-access point station, and the second device 110 may be an access point. Alternatively, in an ESS, the first device 120 may be an access point, and the second device 110 may be a non-access point station. In the case where the first device 120 is an access point, based on determining that the count of a local counter is updated, the first device 120 may send the updated count to another access point in the ESS. In the case where the second device 110 is an access point, based on determining that the count of a local counter is updated, the second device 110 may send the updated count to another access point in the ESS.

[0079] Figure 3A FIG. illustrates another signaling diagram illustrating another communication process 300 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of discussion only, reference will be made to Figure 1 and Figure 2 to describe the communication process 300. The communication process 300 may involve the STA 120 and the AP 110. "STA 120" may also be referred to as "the first device 120" or "the terminal device 120" or "the non-access point 120" or simply "non-AP 120", and "AP 110" may also be referred to as "the second device 120" or "the network device 110".

[0080] As Figure 3A shown, the initialization phase involves the operations shown in reference boxes 305, 310, and 315.

[0081] At block 305, the STA 120 and the AP 110 negotiate and initiate (determine) a parameter set (e.g., a sharing rule, a key, and a counter) for changing the identifier of the STA 120. For example, the "identifier" may include at least one of the identifier of the STA 120 or the random MAC address of the STA 120.

[0082] In some example embodiments, the negotiation may be initiated by the terminal device 120 or the network device 110 during association, e.g., via a management frame, a control frame, or a special action frame. For example, the parameter set may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following:

[0083] ● Sharing rule: The sharing rule may be predefined during specification or configured during negotiation, and the sharing rule is used to generate an identifier for the STA 120.

[0084] ● Key: The key may be an input parameter of the sharing rule for generating the identifier, and the key is used to distinguish different STA 120s.

[0085] ●Counter: The counter can be an input parameter of a shared rule for generating an identifier, and this counter serves as a random seed for identifier generation.

[0086] ● Identifier resource pool: The identifier resource pool can include one or more identifiers. If configured, AP110 and STA 120 can generate identifiers from the identifier resource pool at least based on a shared rule.

[0087] ● Activation / deactivation indication: This indication can be used to activate or deactivate the proposed solution for changing the STA 120 identifier for transmission and reception between STA 120 and AP 110.

[0088] At block 310, STA 120 determines two identifiers for itself to be identified for communication with AP 110 and keeps these two identifiers locally, i.e., at STA 120. The two identifiers determined and kept by STA 120 can be referred to as the "first identifier" and the "second identifier" hereinafter.

[0089] In some example embodiments, STA 120 and AP 110 can generate identifiers based on a shared rule that takes at least one of the key, counter, and identifier resource pool as an input parameter of the shared rule, as follows:

[0090] Identifier = rule(key, counter, identifier resource pool, other parameters)(1)

[0091] STA 120 can determine and keep at least two identifiers (i.e., the first identifier and the second identifier, also referred to as STA-determined identifiers) at least based on the configured parameter set. In one example, STA 120 can determine the first identifier based on a shared rule that takes the local counter as an input parameter of the shared rule. In another example, STA120 can determine the second identifier based on a shared rule that takes the local counter plus a given value (e.g., 1) as an input parameter of the shared rule. Here, the given value can be an integer and can be predefined or configured during negotiation of the parameter set with AP 110.

[0092] At block 315, AP 110 determines two identifiers for STA 120 to be identified for communication with STA120 and keeps these two identifiers locally, i.e., at AP 110. The two identifiers determined and kept by AP 110 can be referred to as the "third identifier" and the "fourth identifier" hereinafter.

[0093] In some example embodiments, the AP 110 also determines and maintains at least two identifiers (i.e., a third identifier and a fourth identifier, also referred to as AP-determined identifiers) based at least on a configured set of parameters. In one example, the AP 110 may determine the third identifier based on a sharing rule that takes a local counter as an input parameter of the sharing rule. In another example, the AP 110 may determine the third identifier based on a sharing rule that takes the local counter minus a given value (e.g., 1) as an input parameter of the sharing rule. For example, the above equation (1) may also be used by the AP 110 to generate the third identifier and the fourth identifier.

[0094] Continuing to refer Figure 3A , the transmission initiated by the STA 120 (i.e., frame transmission 301) involves operations shown with reference to frames 320, 322, 325, 330, 335, 337, and 340.

[0095] The STA 120 sends (320) the frame transmission 301, which is initiated by the STA 120 and corresponds to the first transmission 201 in Figure 2 , to the AP 110 using one of the identifiers determined by the STA 120. On the other side of the communication, the AP 110 receives (322) the frame transmission 301. Additionally, the STA 120 may send the count of the local counter (i.e., the counter at the STA 120) encrypted with the key to the AP 110. After receiving the count of the counter, the AP 110 may synchronize its local counter with the received counter and update the third identifier and the fourth identifier based on the synchronized local counter. Alternatively, the AP 110 may send the count of the local counter (i.e., the counter at the AP 110) encrypted with the key to the STA 120. After receiving the count of the counter, the STA 120 may synchronize its local counter with the received counter and update the first identifier and the second identifier based on the synchronized local counter.

[0096] In some example embodiments, the STA 120 may send the frame transmission 301 to the AP 110 and indicate the first identifier or the second identifier in the frame transmission 301. In one example, the STA 120 may always use the first identifier of the frame transmission 301 regardless of whether the frame transmission 301 is a first / new transmission. In another example, in the case where the frame transmission 301 is a retransmission, the STA 120 may not change the identifier in the frame transmission 301 during the retransmission; otherwise, the STA 120 may indicate the first identifier in the frame transmission 301.

[0097] In some example embodiments, the frame transmission 301 may be limited to unicast frame transmissions for which there is always a corresponding acknowledgment.

[0098] At block 325, AP 110 uses identifiers (i.e., the third identifier and the fourth identifier) determined by AP 110 to detect frame transmission 301.

[0099] In some example embodiments, AP 110 may use the third identifier and the fourth identifier associated with STA 120 to detect frame transmission 301. For example, AP 110 may compare the identifier received in frame transmission 301 (in this case, the first identifier) with the third identifier and the fourth identifier to identify STA 120. If the identifier is equal to either the third identifier or the fourth identifier, AP 110 may determine that frame transmission 301 is a valid frame from STA 120. Additionally, based on determining that the first transmission 201 is a valid transmission from the first device 120, AP 110 may send (335) ACK information (e.g., ACK) 302 corresponding to the first transmission 301 to the first device 120, which will be described later.

[0100] At block 330, if frame transmission 301 is a certain type of frame and is successfully detected using the identifiers (i.e., the third identifier and the fourth identifier) determined by AP 110, AP 110 increments a local counter and updates the identifiers determined by AP 110 accordingly. In other words, after AP 110 increments the local counter, AP 110 further updates the third identifier and the fourth identifier based on the incremented local counter.

[0101] In some example embodiments, if frame transmission 301 is a certain type of frame and has been successfully detected using the third identifier, AP 110 may increment its local counter by a given value (e.g., 1) and update the third identifier and the fourth identifier.

[0102] In one example, a certain type of frame transmission may be limited to any combination of the following:

[0103] ● Unicast frame transmission

[0104] ● Frame transmission during pre - association

[0105] ● Frame transmission during association

[0106] ● One or more types of management frame transmission

[0107] ● One or more types of control frame transmission, or

[0108] ●Data frame transmission

[0109] In another example, a certain type of frame transmission may be limited to unicast frame transmission. In another example, a certain type of frame transmission may be limited to the pre - association phase for certain management frames (such as probe request / response). In another example, a certain type of frame transmission may be limited to the association phase for data or / and management frame transmission.

[0110] Then, after successfully detecting the frame transmission 301, the AP 110 sends (335) ACK information 302 corresponding to the frame transmission 301 to the STA 120. The ACK information 302 confirms the successful reception of the frame transmission 301 by the AP 110. On the other side of the communication, the STA 120 receives (337) the ACK information 302. After receiving the ACK information 302, at block 340, the STA 120 increments the local (i.e., at the STA 120) counter and then conditionally updates the identifiers (i.e., the first identifier and the second identifier) determined by the STA 120.

[0111] In some example embodiments, if the AP 110 successfully detects the frame transmission 301, it may send the ACK information 302 to the STA 120 as a response to the frame transmission 301. After successfully receiving the ACK information 302 associated with the frame transmission 301, the STA 120 may conditionally increment the local counter by a given value (e.g., 1) to synchronize the change of the identifier with the AP 110. For example, the conditions for triggering the counter change may be at least one of the following: (a) there is no pending frame for re - transmission, (b) the time interval between two changes of the local counter is greater than a threshold, or (c) the frame transmission 301 is at least one of a probe request, an authentication request, an association request, or a re - association request. For example, the above - mentioned threshold may be negotiated during initialization or determined by the STA 120 as needed. If the STA 120 changes its counter locally, it may update the first identifier and the second identifier based on the locally changed counter.

[0112] Figure 3B Another signaling diagram illustrating another communication process 380 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 3B is Figure 3A a continuation of. For discussion purposes only, reference will be made to Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3A to describe the communication process 380. Similar to the communication process 300, the communication process 380 may also involve the STA 120 and the AP 110 described with reference to Figure 3A above.

[0113] As Figure 3BAs shown, the transmission initiated by AP 110 (i.e., frame transmission 303) involves the operations shown in reference frames 355, 357, 360, 365, and 367. It should be noted that the transmission initiated by AP 110 (i.e., frame transmission 303) does not necessarily occur after the transmission initiated by STA120 (i.e., frame transmission 301), nor does it depend on the transmission initiated by STA 120. The order of the two transmissions (i.e., frame transmission 301 and frame transmission 303) is irrelevant, and Figure 3A and Figure 3B the order of the two transmissions shown is for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered limiting. In other words, after the initialization phase is completed, the transmission initiated by AP 110 can also occur before the transmission initiated by STA 120, or the two transmissions can overlap with each other in the time domain.

[0114] AP 110 sends (355) frame transmission 303, which is initiated by AP 110 and corresponds to Figure 2 the second transmission 202 in, to STA 120 using one of the identifiers determined by AP 110. The second transmission 303 can include the count of the counter of AP110. On the other side of the communication, STA 120 receives (357) frame transmission 303.

[0115] In some example embodiments, AP 110 can initiate a unicast frame transmission to STA 120 and indicate a third identifier or a fourth identifier in frame transmission 303, just like frame transmission 301 at STA 120.

[0116] At block 360, STA 120 detects frame transmission 303 using the third identifier and the fourth identifier.

[0117] In some example embodiments, STA 120 can use the first identifier and the second identifier to detect frame transmission 303, just like detecting frame transmission 301 at AP 110, as shown in Figure 3A block 325 in. After successfully receiving frame transmission 303, STA 120 synchronizes the count of its local counter with the received count of the counter of AP 110. In addition, STA120 sends ACK information (e.g., ACK) 304 corresponding to frame transmission 303 to AP 110. For example, if STA 120 successfully detects frame transmission 303, it can send ACK information 304 to AP 110 as a response to frame transmission 303.

[0118] In some example embodiments related to multiple APs 110 in the same ESS, after updating the count of a local counter, an AP 110 may send the updated count to another AP in the ESS. For example, if a STA 120 has had some identifiable frame exchanges with an AP 110, the AP 110 may synchronize the counter related to the STA 120 with other APs 110 in the same ESS. For example, after the AP 110 updates its local counter, it may inform other APs 110 in the entire ESS of the counter value, even if the other APs 110 may not have communicated with the STA 120.

[0119] For the given embodiments above, the frame transmission 303 initiated by the AP 110 does not trigger a change in the identifiers at the AP 110 and the STA 120.

[0120] In some example embodiments, by reusing the same mechanism as the frame transmission 301 initiated by the STA 120, the solutions described herein can be extended to change the identifier related to the STA 120 according to the frame transmission 303 initiated by the AP 110. Alternatively, for example, the solutions described herein can also be extended to change the identifier of the STA 120 by exchanging roles between the AP 110 and the STA 120.

[0121] Figure 4 An example process 400 of frame transmission according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. The example process 400 may involve the STA 120 and the AP 110. In this example process 400, the STA 120 plays the role of the first device (or non-AP station) as shown in Figure 1 - FIG. 3, and the AP 120 plays the role of the second device (or access point) as shown in Figure 1 - FIG. 3. It should be noted that the roles of the STA 120 and the AP 110 can also be exchanged. In the example shown in Figure 4 it is assumed that all frames are of a certain type defined or configured previously. For example, a certain type of frame can be predefined in a (plural) specification or can be preconfigured during the negotiation between the STA 120 and the AP 110 in the pre-association phase. Specifically, based on the acknowledgment of the frame transmission, the AP 110 may synchronize the change of the RMA of the STA (which corresponds to the first identification information and the second identification information of the second device 120 as described above) with the STA 120. For discussion purposes only, the example process 400 will be described with reference to Figure 1 - FIG. 3.

[0122] As shown in Figure 4 in the initialization phase, the STA 120 (e.g., the terminal device 120 as shown in Figures 1 - 2 and as shown inFigure 3A and Figure 3B the STA 120) and the AP 110 shown (e.g., as Figures 1 - 2 the network device 110 shown and as Figure 3A and Figure 3B the AP 110 shown) both will negotiate and configure at least shared rules, keys, and counters (with a value of n). The STA 120 can generate two RMAs (corresponding to the first identification information and the second identification information of the first device 120 as described above) based at least on the local counter n (which corresponds to the counter at the first device 120 described above), namely, the first RMA, also known as RMA(n) (which corresponds to the first identification information of the first device); and the second RMA, namely, RMA(n + 1) (which corresponds to the second identification information of the first device). Similarly, the AP 110 can generate two RMAs (corresponding to the third identification information and the fourth identification information of the first device 120 as described above) based at least on the local counter n (which corresponds to the counter at the second device 110 described above), namely, the first AP - determined RMA, also known as RMA(n) (which corresponds to the third identification information described above); and the second RMA, namely, RMA(n - 1) (which corresponds to the fourth identification information described above).

[0123] As Figure 4 shown, the transmission of frame 1 is initiated by the STA 120. The STA 120 carries RMA(n) (i.e., the first RMA) in frame 1, and the AP 110 will use RMA(n - 1) and RMA(n) to detect the transmission of frame 1. If the AP 110 detects that frame 1 is a certain type of frame (e.g., a unicast frame) and the RMA carried in frame 1 is equal to the local first RMA, then the AP 110 will increment the local counter to (n + 1) and send an ACK to the STA 120. After the change of the local counter, the AP 110 updates its local RMAs to RMA(n) and RMA(n + 1). On the other side of the communication, after receiving the ACK for the transmission of frame 1, the STA 120 also increments the local counter to (n + 1). After the change of the local counter, the STA 120 updates its local RMAs to RMA(n + 1) and RMA(n + 2).

[0124] The transmission of the subsequent frame (i.e., Frame 2) is also initiated by STA 120. STA 120 carries RMA(n+1) (i.e., the first RMA) in Frame 2, and AP 110 can use RMA(n) and RMA(n+1) to detect the transmission of Frame 2. If the frame transmission fails, e.g., due to strong interference, STA 120 cannot receive the ACK for the transmission of Frame 2. Then, STA 120 will retransmit Frame 2 without changing the RMA in Frame 2. AP 110 will still use RMA(n) and RMA(n+1) to detect the transmission of Frame 2. If AP 110 detects that Frame 2 is a certain type of frame (e.g., a unicast frame), and the RMA carried in Frame 2 is equal to the local first RMA, it will increment the counter to (n+2) and send an ACK to STA 120. After the change of the local counter, AP 110 updates its local RMA to RMA(n+1) and RMA(n+2). On the other side of the communication, after receiving the ACK for the retransmission of Frame 2, STA 120 increments the local counter to (n+2). After the change of the local counter, STA 120 updates its local RMA to RMA(n+2) and RMA(n+3).

[0125] The transmission of the subsequent frame (i.e., Frame 3) is also initiated by STA 120. STA 120 carries RMA(n+2) (i.e., the first RMA) in the frame, and AP 110 will use RMA(n+1) and RMA(n+2) to detect the transmission of Frame 3. If the transmission of Frame 3 is successful and the RMA carried in Frame 3 is equal to the local first RMA, i.e., RMA(n+2), then AP will increment the counter to (n+3) and send an ACK to STA120. Alternatively, based on determining that the first identification information matches the fourth identification information, AP 110 can keep the third identification information and the fourth identification information unchanged. After the change of the local counter, AP 110 updates its local RMA to RMA(n+2) and RMA(n+3). However, due to strong interference, STA 120 cannot successfully decode the ACK of Frame 3, so it will retransmit Frame 3 without changing the RMA in Frame 3.

[0126] AP 110 will use RMA(n+2) and RMA(n+3) to detect the transmission of Frame 3. Even if the reception of Frame 3 is successful, AP110 will not increment the counter because the RMA carried in Frame 3 is not equal to the local first RMA, i.e., RMA(n+3), and then it will send an ACK to STA for the retransmission of Frame 3. On the other side of the communication, after receiving the ACK for the retransmission of Frame 3, STA120 increments the local counter to (n+3). After the change of the local counter, STA 120 updates its local RMA to RMA(n+3) and RMA(n+4).

[0127] The transmission of the subsequent frame (i.e., Frame 4) is initiated by AP 110. AP 110 carries RMA(n+3) (i.e., the first RMA) in Frame 4, and STA 120 will locally use RMA(n+3) and RMA(n+4) to detect the transmission of Frame 4. In the transmission of Frame 4, the local count of AP 110 may also be included. If the transmission of Frame 4 fails due to strong interference, AP 110 will not receive an ACK for the transmission of Frame 4.

[0128] AP 110 will retransmit Frame 4 without changing the RMA in Frame 4. STA 120 will still use RMA(n+3) and RMA(n+4) to detect the transmission of Frame 4. If the transmission of Frame 4 is successful, STA 120 will synchronize the local count of its local counter with the received count of the counter of AP 110 and send an ACK to AP 110. However, due to strong interference, AP 110 cannot successfully decode the ACK of Frame 4, and it will retransmit Frame 4 without changing the RMA in Frame 4. On the other side of the communication, STA 120 will use RMA(n+3) and RMA(n+4) to detect the transmission of Frame 4 again. If the reception of Frame 4 is successful, STA 120 will send an ACK to AP 110.

[0129] Figure 5 FIG. illustrates a flowchart of an example method 500 implemented at a first device 120 according to some other embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of discussion, method 500 will be described from the perspective of the first device 120 (i.e., STA 120). Figures 1 - 4 From the perspective of the first device 120 (i.e., STA 120).

[0130] At block 510, the first device 120 (e.g., STA 120 shown in FIG. 3 - Figure 4 determines a parameter set generated for the identification information of the first device 120. The parameter set is common to the first device 120 and the second device 110. At block 520, the first device 120 generates first identification information and second identification information of the first device 120 based on the parameter set. At block 530, the first device 120 sends a first transmission (e.g., the first transmission 201 shown in FIG. - Figure 2 or the frame transmission 301 shown in FIG. - Figure 3A including the first identification information) to the second device 110. At block 540, the first device 120 uses the first identification information and the second identification information to detect a second transmission from the second device 110 (e.g., the second transmission 202 shown in FIG. - Figure 2 or the frame transmission 303 shown in FIG. - Figure 3B ).

[0131] In some example embodiments, the parameter set is determined through negotiation with the second device 120 during the association of the first device 110 and the second device 120. This negotiation can be initiated by the first device 120 or the second device 110.

[0132] In some example embodiments, the first transmission and the second transmission are of a predefined type or a preconfigured type.

[0133] In some example embodiments, the predefined type can be defined in the (one or more) specifications, and the preconfigured type can be determined during the negotiation between the first device 120 and the second device 110. The predefined type or the preconfigured type includes at least one of the following: unicast frame transmission, frame transmission during a pre-association phase related to the first device 120 and the second device 110, frame transmission during the association of the first device 120 and the second device 110, management frame transmission, control frame transmission, or data frame transmission.

[0134] In some example embodiments, method 500 further includes: receiving an ACK for the first transmission from the second device 110; updating the parameter set by updating at least one parameter in the parameter set; and updating the first identification information and the second identification information based on the updated parameter set.

[0135] In some example embodiments, the first device 120 detects the second transmission by: comparing the third identification information of the first device 120 in the second transmission with the first identification information and the second identification information; and determining that the second transmission is a valid transmission of the first device 120 based on determining that the third identification information matches the first identification information or the second identification information.

[0136] In some example embodiments, method 500 further includes: based on determining that the second transmission is a valid transmission of the first device 120, sending an ACK for the second transmission to the second device 110 (e.g., the ACK information 304 as Figure 3B shown).

[0137] In some example embodiments, the parameter set includes at least one of the following: a rule for generating the first identification information and the second identification information; or a counter for providing a count as an input parameter to the rule.

[0138] In some example embodiments, the parameter set further includes at least one of the following: a key used as an input parameter to the rule and for distinguishing the first device 120 from a third device associated with the second device 110, an identification information pool from which the first identification information and the second identification information are generated based on the rule, or an activation / deactivation indication for activating or deactivating the first identification information and the second identification information.

[0139] In some example embodiments, method 500 further includes: sending the count of the counter encrypted with the key to the second device 110.

[0140] In some example embodiments, the first device 120 generates the first identification information and the second identification information by: generating the first identification information based on the rule and the count provided by the counter; and generating the second identification information based on the rule and the count plus a numerical value.

[0141] In some example embodiments, the numerical value is predefined or configured during negotiation of the parameter set with the second device 110.

[0142] In some example embodiments, the first device 120 generates the first identification information and the second identification information by: employing the rule, where the input parameters of the rule are at least one of the key, the count of the counter, or the identification information pool.

[0143] In some example embodiments, the rule is a random function and the counter is the random seed of the random function.

[0144] In some example embodiments, the first device 120 updates at least one parameter in the parameter set by: updating at least one parameter based on receiving an ACK for the first transmission.

[0145] In some example embodiments, the update of at least one parameter is further based on at least one of the following: there is no outstanding retransmission at the first device 120, the time elapsed since the counter was initialized or incremented exceeds a threshold, or the first transmission is at least one of a probe request, an authentication request, an association request, or a re-association request.

[0146] In some example embodiments, the threshold is negotiated during initialization or determined by the first device 120.

[0147] In some example embodiments, the first device 120 updates at least one parameter in the parameter set by: incrementing the count of the counter.

[0148] In some example embodiments, method 500 further includes: keeping the first identification information and the second identification information unchanged after receiving a second transmission from the second device 110.

[0149] In some example embodiments, method 500 further includes: after receiving a second transmission from the second device 110, updating the parameter set by updating at least one parameter in the parameter set; and updating the first identification information and the second identification information based on the updated parameter set.

[0150] In some example embodiments, the count of the counter is the first count of a first counter at the first device 120, and method 500 further includes: receiving a second count of a second counter at the second device 110 in a second transmission; and synchronizing the first count of the first counter with the received second count of the second counter.

[0151] In some example embodiments, method 500 further includes: based on determining that an ACK for a first transmission has not been received from the second device 110, sending a retransmission of the first transmission to the second device 110. The retransmission includes first identification information.

[0152] In some example embodiments, the first identification information or the second identification information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the first device 120, or a random media access control (MAC) address of the first device 120.

[0153] In some example embodiments, in an ESS, the first device 120 is a non-access point station and the second device 110 is an access point, or in an ESS, the first device 120 is an access point and the second device 110 is a non-access point station.

[0154] In some example embodiments, the first device 120 is an access point, and method 500 further includes: based on determining that the count of the counter has been updated, sending the updated count to another access point in the ESS.

[0155] Figure 6 Another flowchart of an example method 600 implemented at a second device according to some other embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. For purposes of discussion, method 600 will be described from the perspective of the second device 110 (i.e., AP 110). Figures 1 - 4 From the perspective of the second device 110 (i.e., AP 110), method 600 is described.

[0156] At block 610, the second device 110 determines a parameter set for generating identification information for the first device 120. The parameter set is common to the first device 120 and the second device 110. At block 620, the second device 110 generates third identification information and fourth identification information for the first device 120 based on the parameter set. At block 630, the second device 110 uses the third identification information and the fourth identification information to detect a first transmission from the first device 120 (e.g., the first transmission 201 as shown or the frame transmission 301 as shown). At block 640, the second device 110 sends a second transmission including the third identification information to the first device 120 (e.g., the second transmission 202 as shown or the frame transmission 303 as shown). Figure 2 as shown Figure 3A as shown Figure 2 as shown Figure 3B as shown

[0157] In some example embodiments, the parameter set is determined through negotiation with the first device 120 during the association of the first device 120 and the second device 110. The negotiation can be initiated by the first device 120 or the second device 110.

[0158] In some example embodiments, the first transmission and the second transmission are of a predefined type or a preconfigured type.

[0159] In some example embodiments, the predefined type can be defined in the specification(s), and the preconfigured type can be determined during the negotiation between the first device 120 and the second device 110. The predefined type or the preconfigured type includes at least one of the following: unicast frame transmission, frame transmission during a pre-association phase related to the first device 120 and the second device 110, frame transmission during the association of the first device 120 and the second device 110, management frame transmission, control frame transmission, or data frame transmission.

[0160] In some example embodiments, the second device 110 detects the first transmission by comparing the first identification information of the first device 120 in the first transmission with the third identification information and the fourth identification information; and determining that the first transmission is a valid transmission from the first device 120 based on determining that the first identification information matches the third identification information or the fourth identification information.

[0161] In some example embodiments, method 600 further includes: sending an ACK for the first transmission to the first device 120 based on determining that the first transmission is a valid transmission from the first device 120.

[0162] In some example embodiments, method 600 further includes: updating the parameter set by updating at least one parameter in the parameter set based on determining that the first identification information matches the third identification information; and updating the third identification information and the fourth identification information based on the updated parameter set.

[0163] In some exemplary embodiments, method 600 further includes: keeping the third identification information and the fourth identification information unchanged based on determining that the first identification information matches the fourth identification information.

[0164] In some example embodiments, the parameter set includes at least one of the following: a rule for generating the third identification information and the fourth identification information; or a counter for providing a count as an input parameter to the rule.

[0165] In some example embodiments, the parameter set further includes at least one of the following: a key that serves as an input parameter for the rule and is used to distinguish the first device 120 from a third device associated with the second device 110; a pool of identification information from which third identification information and fourth identification information are generated based on the rule; or an activation / deactivation indication for activating or deactivating the third identification information and the fourth identification information.

[0166] In some example embodiments, method 600 further includes: sending the count of a counter encrypted with the key to the first device 120.

[0167] In some example embodiments, the second device 110 generates the third identification information and the fourth identification information by: generating the third identification information based on the rule and the count provided by the counter; and generating the fourth identification information based on the rule and the count minus a numerical value.

[0168] In some example embodiments, the numerical value is predefined or configured during negotiation of the parameter set with the first device 120.

[0169] In some example embodiments, the second device 110 generates the third identification information and the fourth identification information by: adopting the rule, where the input parameter of the rule is at least one of the key, the count of the counter, or the pool of identification information.

[0170] In some example embodiments, the rule is a random function and the counter is the random seed of the random function.

[0171] In some example embodiments, the second device 110 updates at least one parameter in the parameter set by: updating at least one parameter based on receiving a first transmission.

[0172] In some example embodiments, the second device 110 updates at least one parameter in the parameter set by: incrementing the count of the counter.

[0173] In some example embodiments, method 600 further includes: based on determining that an ACK for a second transmission (e.g., ACK information 304 as Figure 3B shown) has not been received from the first device 120, sending a retransmission of the second transmission to the first device 120. The retransmission includes the third identification information.

[0174] In some example embodiments, the third identification information or the fourth identification information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the first device 120, or a random media access control (MAC) address of the first device 120.

[0175] In some example embodiments, in an ESS, the first device 120 is a non-access point station and the second device 110 is an access point, or in an ESS, the first device 120 is an access point and the second device 110 is a non-access point station.

[0176] In some example embodiments, the second device 110 is an access point, and method 600 further includes: sending an updated count to another access point in the ESS based on determining that the count of a counter is updated.

[0177] In some embodiments, a device (e.g., the first device 120) capable of performing method 500 may include components for performing the corresponding steps of method 500. The components may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the components may be implemented in a circuit system or a software module.

[0178] In some example embodiments, the device includes: components for determining, at the first device 120, a parameter set generated for the identification information of the first device 120, the parameter set being common to the first device 120 and the second device 110; components for generating first identification information and second identification information of the first device 120 based on the parameter set; components for sending a first transmission including the first identification information to the second device 110; and components for detecting a second transmission from the second device using the first identification information and the second identification information.

[0179] In some example embodiments, the parameter set is determined through negotiation with the second device 120 during the association of the first device 110 and the second device 120. The negotiation may be initiated by the first device 120 or the second device 110.

[0180] In some example embodiments, the first transmission and the second transmission are of a predefined type or a preconfigured type.

[0181] In some example embodiments, the predefined type may be defined in a (plural) specification, and the preconfigured type may be determined during the negotiation between the first device 120 and the second device 110. The predefined type or the preconfigured type includes at least one of the following: unicast frame transmission, frame transmission in a pre-association phase related to the first device 120 and the second device 110, frame transmission during the association of the first device 120 and the second device 110, management frame transmission, control frame transmission, or data frame transmission.

[0182] In some example embodiments, the device further includes: components for receiving an ACK for the first transmission from the second device 110; the components for updating the parameter set include components for updating at least one parameter in the parameter set; and components for updating the first identification information and the second identification information based on the updated parameter set.

[0183] In some example embodiments, the component for detecting a second transmission from a second device using first identification information and second identification information includes: a component for comparing third identification information of a first device 120 in the second transmission with the first identification information and the second identification information; and a component for determining that the second transmission is a valid transmission of the first device 120 based on determining that the third identification information matches the first identification information or the second identification information.

[0184] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further includes: a component for sending an ACK for the second transmission to the second device 110 (e.g., ACK information 304 as shown) based on determining that the second transmission is a valid transmission of the first device 120. Figure 3B shown

[0185] In some example embodiments, the parameter set includes at least one of the following: a rule for generating the first identification information and the second identification information; or a counter for providing a count as an input parameter to the rule.

[0186] In some example embodiments, the parameter set further includes at least one of the following: a key used as an input parameter to the rule and for distinguishing the first device 120 from a third device associated with the second device 110, an identification information pool from which the first identification information and the second identification information are generated based on the rule, or an activation / deactivation indication for activating or deactivating the first identification information and the second identification information.

[0187] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further includes: a component for sending the count of the counter encrypted with the key to the second device 110.

[0188] In some example embodiments, the component for generating the first identification information and the second identification information of the first device 120 based on the parameter set includes: a component for generating the first identification information based on the rule and the count provided by the counter; and a component for generating the second identification information based on the rule and the count plus a numerical value.

[0189] In some example embodiments, the numerical value is predefined or configured during negotiation of the parameter set with the second device 110.

[0190] In some example embodiments, the component for generating the first identification information and the second identification information of the first device 120 based on the parameter set includes: a component for adopting the rule, where the rule has as input parameters at least one of the key, the count of the counter, or the identification information pool.

[0191] In some example embodiments, the rule is a random function and the counter is a random seed for the random function.

[0192] In some example embodiments, the component for updating at least one parameter in the parameter set includes: a component for updating at least one parameter based on receiving an ACK for a first transmission.

[0193] In some example embodiments, the component for updating at least one parameter in the parameter set further includes: a component for updating at least one parameter based on at least one of the following: there is no outstanding retransmission at the first device 120, the time elapsed since the counter was initialized or incremented exceeds a threshold, or the first transmission is at least one of a probe request, an authentication request, an association request, or a re-association request.

[0194] In some example embodiments, the threshold is negotiated during initialization or determined by the first device 120.

[0195] In some example embodiments, the component for updating at least one parameter in the parameter set includes: a component for incrementing the count of a counter.

[0196] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further includes: a component for keeping the first identification information and the second identification information unchanged after receiving a second transmission from the second device 110.

[0197] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further includes: a component for updating the parameter set by updating at least one parameter in the parameter set after receiving a second transmission from the second device 110; and a component for updating the first identification information and the second identification information based on the updated parameter set.

[0198] In some example embodiments, the count of the counter is the first count of a first counter at the first device 120, and the apparatus further includes: a component for receiving a second count of a second counter at the second device 110 in the second transmission; and a component for synchronizing the first count of the first counter with the received second count of the second counter.

[0199] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further includes: a component for transmitting a retransmission of the first transmission to the second device 110 based on determining that an ACK for the first transmission has not been received from the second device 110. The retransmission includes the first identification information.

[0200] In some example embodiments, the first identification information or the second identification information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the first device 120, or a random media access control (MAC) address of the first device 120.

[0201] In some example embodiments, in an ESS, the first device 120 is a non-access point station and the second device 110 is an access point, or in an ESS, the first device 120 is an access point and the second device 110 is a non-access point station.

[0202] In some example embodiments, the first device 120 is an access point, and the apparatus further includes: means for sending an updated count to another access point in the ESS based on determining that the count of a counter is updated.

[0203] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes means for performing other steps in some embodiments of method 500. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code being configured to, with the at least one processor, implement the performance of the apparatus.

[0204] In some embodiments, an apparatus (e.g., the second device 110) capable of performing method 600 may include means for performing the corresponding steps of method 600. The means may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the means may be implemented in a circuit system or a software module.

[0205] In some example embodiments, the apparatus includes: means for determining, at the second device 110, a parameter set generated for the identification information of the first device 120, the parameter set being common to the first device 120 and the second device 110; means for generating third identification information and fourth identification information of the first device 120 based on the parameter set; means for detecting a first transmission from the first device 120 using the third identification information and the fourth identification information; and means for sending a second transmission including the third identification information to the first device 120.

[0206] In some example embodiments, the parameter set is determined through negotiation with the first device 120 during the association of the first device 120 and the second device 110. The negotiation may be initiated by the first device 120 or the second device 110.

[0207] In some example embodiments, the first transmission and the second transmission are of a predefined type or a preconfigured type.

[0208] In some example embodiments, the predefined type may be defined in the (multiple) specifications, and the preconfigured type may be determined during the negotiation between the first device 120 and the second device 110. The predefined type or the preconfigured type includes at least one of the following: unicast frame transmission, frame transmission during a pre-association phase related to the first device 120 and the second device 110, frame transmission during the association of the first device 120 and the second device 110, management frame transmission, control frame transmission, or data frame transmission.

[0209] In some example embodiments, the component for detecting the first transmission from the first device 120 includes: a component for comparing the first identification information of the first device 120 in the first transmission with the third identification information and the fourth identification information; and a component for determining that the first transmission is a valid transmission from the first device 120 based on determining that the first identification information matches the third identification information or the fourth identification information.

[0210] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further includes: a component for sending an ACK for the first transmission to the first device 120 based on determining that the first transmission is a valid transmission from the first device 120.

[0211] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus further includes: a component for updating the parameter set based on determining that the first identification information matches the third identification information, the component for updating the parameter set includes a component for updating at least one parameter in the parameter set; and a component for updating the third identification information and the fourth identification information based on the updated parameter set.

[0212] In some exemplary embodiments, the apparatus further includes: a component for keeping the third identification information and the fourth identification information unchanged based on determining that the first identification information matches the fourth identification information.

[0213] In some example embodiments, the parameter set includes at least one of the following: a rule for generating the third identification information and the fourth identification information; or a counter for providing a count as an input parameter to the rule.

[0214] In some example embodiments, the parameter set further includes at least one of the following: a key that serves as an input parameter to the rule and is used to distinguish the first device 120 from a third device associated with the second device 110; a pool of identification information, from which the third identification information and the fourth identification information are generated based on the rule; or an activation / deactivation indication for activating or deactivating the third identification information and the fourth identification information.

[0215] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further includes: a component for sending the count of the counter encrypted with the key to the first device 120.

[0216] In some exemplary embodiments, the component for generating third identification information and fourth identification information of the first device 120 based on the parameter set includes: a component for generating the third identification information based on the rule and a count provided by a counter; and a component for generating the fourth identification information based on the rule and the count minus a numerical value.

[0217] In some example embodiments, the value is predefined or configured during negotiation of the parameter set with the first device 120 .

[0218] In some example embodiments, the component for generating third identification information and fourth identification information of the first device 120 based on the parameter set includes: a component for adopting the rule, wherein the input parameter of the rule is at least one of the key, the count of the counter, or the identification information pool.

[0219] In some example embodiments, the rule is a random function and the counter is a random seed for the random function.

[0220] In some example embodiments, means for updating at least one parameter in the parameter set comprises means for updating at least one parameter based on receiving the first transmission.

[0221] In some example embodiments, means for updating at least one parameter in the parameter set comprises means for incrementing a count of a counter.

[0222] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises: Figure 3B ACK information 304 is shown not being received from the first device 120 to send a retransmission of the second transmission to the first device 120. The retransmission includes third identification information.

[0223] In some example embodiments, the third identification information or the fourth identification information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the first device 120 , or a random medium access control (MAC) address of the first device 120 .

[0224] In some example embodiments, in an ESS, the first device 120 is a non-access point station and the second device 110 is an access point, or in an ESS, the first device 120 is an access point and the second device 110 is a non-access point station.

[0225] In some example embodiments, the second device 110 is an access point, and the apparatus further comprises means for sending an updated count to another access point in the ESS based on determining that the count of the counter is updated.

[0226] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes components for performing other steps in some embodiments of method 600. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code being configured to, with the at least one processor, implement the performance of the apparatus.

[0227] Figure 7 FIG. shows a simplified block diagram of a device 700 suitable for implementing some example embodiments of the present disclosure. The device 700 may be provided to implement a communication device, for example, such as Figure 1 the AP device 110 or the STA device 120 as shown. As shown, the device 700 includes one or more processors 710, one or more memories 720 coupled to the processor 710, and one or more communication modules 740 coupled to the processor 710.

[0228] The communication module 740 is for two-way communication. The communication module 740 has at least one antenna to facilitate communication. The communication interface may represent any interface required for communication with other network elements.

[0229] The processor 710 may be of any type suitable for a local technical network and, by way of non-limiting example, may include one or more of the following: general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), and a processor based on a multi-core processor architecture. The device 700 may have multiple processors, such as an application-specific integrated circuit chip that is subordinate in time to a clock synchronized with the main processor.

[0230] The memory 720 may include one or more non-volatile memories and one or more volatile memories. Examples of non-volatile memories include, but are not limited to, read-only memory (ROM) 724, electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, hard disk, compact disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), and other magnetic storage and / or optical storage. Examples of volatile memories include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM) 722 and other volatile memories that do not persist during a power outage.

[0231] The computer program 730 includes computer-executable instructions executed by the associated processor 710. The program 730 may be stored in the ROM 724. The processor 710 may execute any suitable actions and processes by loading the program 730 into the RAM 722.

[0232] Embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented by the program 730, causing the device 700 to be able to execute any process of the present disclosure discussed with reference to Figure 2 FIG. 3. Embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented by hardware or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0233] In some example embodiments, program 730 may be tangibly embodied in a computer-readable medium, which may be included in device 700 (such as in memory 720) or in other storage devices accessible by device 700. Device 700 may load program 730 from the computer-readable medium into RAM 722 for execution. The computer-readable medium may include any type of tangible non-volatile memory, such as ROM, EPROM, flash memory, hard disk, CD, DVD, etc.

[0234] Figure 8 A block diagram of an example of a computer-readable medium 1000 in accordance with some example embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. Program 730 is stored on computer-readable medium 800. It should be noted that although computer-readable medium 800 is depicted in FIG. 10 in the form of a CD or DVD, computer-readable medium 800 may be any other form suitable for carrying or storing program 730.

[0235] Generally, the various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented using hardware or a dedicated circuit, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects may be implemented using hardware, while other aspects may be implemented using firmware or software that may be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device. Although the various aspects of the embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated and described as block diagrams, flowcharts, or using some other graphical representation, it should be understood that, by way of non-limiting example, the blocks, devices, systems, techniques, or methods described herein may be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, a dedicated circuit or logic, general hardware or a controller or other computing device, or some combination thereof.

[0236] The present disclosure also provides at least one computer program product tangibly stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The computer program product includes computer-executable instructions, such as the instructions included in program modules, which are executed in a device on a target real or virtual processor to perform the methods 500 or 600 referred to above Figure 5 or Figure 6 described. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, libraries, objects, classes, components, data structures, etc. that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. In various embodiments, the functions of program modules may be combined or split as needed among program modules. The machine-executable instructions of program modules may be executed within local or distributed devices. In a distributed device, program modules may be located in both local and remote storage media.

[0237] The program code for implementing the methods of the present disclosure can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. These program codes can be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing devices, causing the functions / operations specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram to be implemented when the program codes are executed by the processor or controller. The program codes can be executed entirely on the machine, partially on the machine, as a stand-alone software package, partially on the machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0238] In the context of the present disclosure, the computer program code or related data can be carried by any suitable carrier to cause a device, apparatus, or processor to be capable of performing the various processes and operations described above. Examples of carriers include signals, computer-readable media, etc.

[0239] The computer-readable media can be a computer-readable signal medium or a computer-readable storage medium. The computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, devices, or apparatuses, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples of the computer-readable storage media will include electrical connections with one or more wires, portable computer floppy disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fibers, portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0240] Furthermore, although the operations are described in a specific order, this should not be construed as requiring that the operations be performed in the specific order shown or in sequential order, or that all of the shown operations be performed to obtain the desired result. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Similarly, although several specific implementation details are included in the above discussion, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the present disclosure, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular embodiments. Certain features described in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented separately or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments.

[0241] Although the present disclosure has been described in language specific to structural features and / or method acts, it should be understood that the present disclosure defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the above specific features or acts. Rather, the above specific features or acts are disclosed as example forms for implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A first device, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first device to: determine a parameter set for generating identification information for the first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and a second device; generate first identification information and second identification information for the first device based on the parameter set; send a first transmission including the first identification information to the second device; and use the first identification information and the second identification information to detect a second transmission from the second device.

2. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the parameter set is determined through negotiation with the second device during the association between the first device and the second device, and the negotiation is initiated by the first device or the second device.

3. The first device according to claim 2, wherein the first transmission and the second transmission are of a predefined type or a preconfigured type.

4. The first device according to claim 3, wherein the preconfigured type is determined during the negotiation between the first device and the second device, and the predefined type or the preconfigured type includes at least one of the following: unicast frame transmission, frame transmission during a pre - association phase related to the first device and the second device, frame transmission during the association between the first device and the second device, management frame transmission, control frame transmission, or data frame transmission.

5. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first device is further caused to: receive an acknowledgement (ACK) for the first transmission from the second device; update the parameter set by updating at least one parameter in the parameter set; and update the first identification information and the second identification information based on the updated parameter set.

6. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first device is caused to detect the second transmission by: comparing a third identification information of the first device in the second transmission with the first identification information and the second identification information; and based on determining that the third identification information matches the first identification information or the second identification information, determining that the second transmission is a valid transmission for the first device.

7. The first device according to claim 6, wherein the first device is further caused to: send an acknowledgement (ACK) for the second transmission to the second device based on determining that the second transmission is a valid transmission for the first device.

8. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the parameter set includes at least one of the following: rules for generating the first identification information and the second identification information; or a counter for providing a count as an input parameter to the rules.

9. The first device according to claim 8, wherein the parameter set further includes at least one of the following: A secret key, used as an input parameter of the rule and for differentiating the first device from a third device associated with the second device. An identification information pool, where the first identification information and the second identification information are generated from the identification information pool based on the rule, or An activation / deactivation indication for activating or deactivating the first identification information and the second identification information.

10. The first device according to claim 9, wherein the first device is further configured to: Send the count of the counter encrypted with the secret key to the second device.

11. The first device according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the first device is configured to generate the first identification information and the second identification information by: Generating the first identification information based on the rule and the count provided by the counter; and Generating the second identification information based on the rule and the count plus a numerical value.

12. The first device according to claim 11, wherein the numerical value is predefined or configured during negotiation of the parameter set with the second device.

13. The first device according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the first device is configured to generate the first identification information and the second identification information by: Adopting the rule, where the input parameters of the rule are at least one of the secret key, the count of the counter, or the identification information pool.

14. The first device according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the rule is a random function and the counter is the random seed of the random function.

15. The first device according to any one of claims 3 to 14, wherein the first device is configured to update the at least one parameter in the parameter set by: Updating the at least one parameter based on receiving the ACK for the first transmission.

16. The first device according to claim 15, wherein the update of the at least one parameter is further based on at least one of the following: There is no outstanding retransmission at the first device, The time elapsed since the counter was initialized or incremented exceeds a threshold, or The first transmission is at least one of a probe request, an authentication request, an association request, or a re-association request.

17. The first device according to claim 16, wherein the threshold is negotiated during initialization or determined by the first device.

18. The first device according to any one of claims 5 to 17, wherein the first device is configured to update the at least one parameter in the parameter set by: Incrementing the count of the counter.

19. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the first device is further configured to: Keep the first identification information and the second identification information unchanged after receiving the second transmission from the second device.

20. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the first device is further configured to: After receiving the second transmission from the second device, update the parameter set by updating at least one parameter in the parameter set; and Update the first identification information and the second identification information based on the updated parameter set.

21. The first device according to any one of claims 8 to 18, wherein the counting of the counter is the first counting of a first counter at the first device, and the first device is further configured to:[[]] Receive, in the second transmission, a second counting of a second counter at the second device; and Synchronize the first counting of the first counter with the received second counting of the second counter.

22. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first device is further configured to:[[]] Based on determining that an ACK for the first transmission has not been received from the second device, send a retransmission of the first transmission to the second device, the retransmission including the first identification information.

23. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the first identification information or the second identification information includes at least one of the following:[[]] An identifier of the first device, or A random media access control (MAC) address of the first device.

24. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 23,[[]] wherein:[[]] In an extended service set (ESS), the first device is a non-access point station and the second device is an access point, or In the ESS, the first device is an access point and the second device is a non-access point station.

25. The first device according to claim 24, wherein the first device is the access point, and is further configured to:[[]] Based on determining that the counting of the counter is updated, send the updated counting to another access point in the ESS.

26. A second device,[[]] comprising:[[]] At least one processor; and At least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the second device to:[[]] Determine a parameter set for generating identification information for a first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and the second device; Generate third identification information and fourth identification information for the first device based on the parameter set; Use the third identification information and the fourth identification information to detect a first transmission from the first device; and Send a second transmission including the third identification information to the first device.

27. The second device according to claim 26, wherein the parameter set is determined through negotiation with the second device during the association of the second device with the first device, the negotiation being initiated by the first device or the second device.

28. The second device according to claim 27, wherein the first transmission and the second transmission are of a predefined type or a preconfigured type.

29. The second device according to claim 28, wherein the preconfigured type is determined during the negotiation between the first device and the second device, and the predefined type or preconfigured type includes at least one of the following: unicast frame transmission, frame transmission during a pre-association phase related to the first device and the second device, frame transmission during the association between the first device and the second device, management frame transmission, control frame transmission, or data frame transmission.

30. The second device according to any one of claims 26 to 29, wherein the second device is caused to detect the first transmission by: comparing first identification information of the first device in the first transmission with the third identification information and the fourth identification information; and determining that the first transmission is a valid transmission from the first device based on determining that the first identification information matches the third identification information or the fourth identification information.

31. The second device according to claim 30, wherein the second device is further caused to: send an acknowledgment (ACK) for the first transmission to the first device based on determining that the first transmission is a valid transmission from the first device.

32. The second device according to claim 30, wherein the second device is further caused to: update the parameter set by updating at least one parameter in the parameter set based on determining that the first identification information matches the third identification information; and update the third identification information and the fourth identification information based on the updated parameter set.

33. The second device according to claim 30, wherein the second device is further caused to: keep the third identification information and the fourth identification information unchanged based on determining that the first identification information matches the fourth identification information.

34. The second device according to any one of claims 26 to 33, wherein the parameter set includes at least one of the following: a rule for generating the third identification information and the fourth identification information; or a counter for providing a count as an input parameter to the rule.

35. The second device according to claim 34, wherein the parameter set further includes at least one of the following: a key, used as an input parameter to the rule and for distinguishing the first device from a third device associated with the second device, a pool of identification information from which the third identification information and the fourth identification information are generated based on the rule, or an activation / deactivation indication for activating or deactivating the third identification information and the fourth identification information.

36. The second device according to claim 35, wherein the second device is further caused to: send the count of the counter encrypted with the key to the first device.

37. The second device according to any one of claims 34 to 36, wherein the second device is caused to generate the third identification information and the fourth identification information by: generating the third identification information based on the rules and the count provided by the counter; and generating the fourth identification information based on the rules and the count minus a numerical value.

38. The second device according to claim 37, wherein the numerical value is predefined or configured during negotiation of the parameter set with the first device.

39. The second device according to any one of claims 35 to 38, wherein the second device is caused to generate the third identification information and the fourth identification information by: adopting the rules, wherein the input parameters of the rules are at least one of the key, the count of the counter, or the identification information pool.

40. The second device according to any one of claims 34 to 39, wherein the rule is a random function and the counter is the random seed of the random function.

41. The second device according to any one of claims 32 to 40, wherein the second device is caused to update the at least one parameter in the parameter set by: updating the at least one parameter based on receiving the first transmission.

42. The second device according to any one of claims 32 to 40, wherein the second device is caused to update the at least one parameter in the parameter set by: incrementing the count of the counter.

43. The second device according to any one of claims 26 to 42, wherein the second device is further caused to: based on determining that an ACK for the second transmission has not been received from the first device, send a retransmission of the second transmission to the first device, the retransmission including the third identification information.

44. The second device according to any one of claims 26 to 43, wherein the third identification information or the fourth identification information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the first device, or a random media access control (MAC) address of the first device.

45. The second device according to any one of claims 26 to 44, wherein: in an extended service set (ESS), the first device is a non-access point station and the second device is an access point, or in the ESS, the first device is an access point and the second device is a non-access point station.

46. The second device according to claim 45, wherein the second device is the access point and is further caused to: based on determining that the count of the counter is updated, send the updated count to another access point in the ESS.

47. A method, comprising: at a first device, determining a parameter set for generating identification information for the first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and a second device; generating first identification information and second identification information for the first device based on the parameter set; sending a first transmission including the first identification information to the second device; and using the first identification information and the second identification information to detect a second transmission from the second device.

48. A method, comprising: At a second device, a parameter set for generating identification information of a first device is determined, the parameter set being common to the first device and the second device; Based on the parameter set, third identification information and fourth identification information of the first device are generated; The third identification information and the fourth identification information are used to detect a first transmission from the first device; And A second transmission including the third identification information is sent to the first device.

49. An apparatus, Comprising: Means for determining, at a first device, a parameter set for generating identification information of the first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and a second device; Means for generating, based on the parameter set, first identification information and second identification information of the first device; Means for sending a first transmission including the first identification information to the second device; And Means for using the first identification information and the second identification information to detect a second transmission from the second device.

50. An apparatus, Comprising: Means for determining, at a second device, a parameter set for generating identification information of a first device, the parameter set being common to the first device and the second device; Means for generating, based on the parameter set, third identification information and fourth identification information of the first device; Means for using the third identification information and the fourth identification information to detect a first transmission from the first device; And Means for sending a second transmission including the third identification information to the first device.

51. A non-transitory computer-readable medium, comprising program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions for at least performing the method according to any one of claims 47 or 48.

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