Communication device, control method, and program

Abstract

The objective is to enable a control device that manages a network composed of multiple base stations to be aware of the establishment of multiple links between base stations. [Solution] When a communication device 103, which operates as a base station with the function of building a network, establishes multiple links for communication with other base stations 102, it notifies a control device that controls the network composed of multiple base stations that the links have been established.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the establishment of a link used for communication.

Background Art

[0002] There is a technique of treating a network including networks respectively constructed by a plurality of access points (APs) operating as base stations for constructing a network as one network. Such a network including networks constructed by a plurality of APs is called a Multi-AP network (MAP network). The MAP network includes a control device that controls the APs belonging to the network. Such a control device is called a Multi-AP Controller (controller). Also, an AP belonging to the MAP network and controlled by the controller is called a Multi-AP Agent (agent).

[0003] The controller, the agent, and the agent establish a communication link called a backhaul link to perform backhaul communication. The controller can realize efficient network control between the agents belonging to the MAP network by using the information acquired via backhaul communication from the agents belonging to the MAP network.

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses controlling a network composed of a plurality of agents connected via backhaul communication.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005] [[ID=3,0]]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] An AP (Access Point) acting as an agent in a MAP (Mapped Area Network) may have multiple wireless interfaces (I / F) to simultaneously build wireless networks in multiple frequency bands. An AP capable of simultaneously building wireless networks in multiple frequency bands may be able to establish multiple backhaul links for backhaul communication with the same AP via the multiple networks it has built. In such cases, since the controller in the MAP network is the device that controls the entire MAP network, it is preferable for it to be aware of the backhaul links established within the MAP network.

[0007] In view of the above, the present invention aims to enable a control device that controls a network composed of multiple base stations to be aware of the establishment of multiple links between base stations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objective, the communication device of the present invention is a communication device that operates as a base station having the function of constructing a network, and comprises: communication means for communicating with a control device that controls a network composed of a plurality of base stations; establishment means for establishing links with other base stations belonging to the network for use in communication with those other base stations; and notification means for notifying the control device via the communication means that a plurality of links have been established with the other base stations. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, when multiple links are established between base stations, a control device that controls a network composed of multiple base stations can be made aware of the establishment of the links. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This diagram shows the network configuration in which AP101, AP102, and AP103 participate. [Figure 2] This diagram shows the hardware configuration of AP103. [Figure 3] This sequence diagram shows an example of the process that AP102 and AP103 perform when establishing multiple backhaul links. [Figure 4] This flowchart shows an example of the process performed when AP103 establishes multiple backhaul links with AP102. [Figure 5] This flowchart shows an example of the process that AP103 performs when determining whether to establish multiple backhaul links with AP102. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of the process that AP101 performs when multiple backhaul links are established between AP102 and AP103. [Figure 7] This flowchart shows an example of the process that AP103 performs when it stops a specific backhaul link among the multiple backhaul links established between AP102 and AP102. [Figure 8] This sequence diagram shows another example of the process that AP102 and AP103 perform when establishing multiple backhaul links. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Note that the configurations shown in the following embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the illustrated configurations.

[0012] Figure 1 shows the network configuration to which the access point (AP) 101 according to this embodiment participates. APs 101, 102, and 103 are access points that each have the function of constructing a network (BSS, Basic Service Set). AP 101 constructs network 106, AP 102 constructs networks 107 and 108, and AP 103 constructs network 109. STAs 104 and 105 are stations that have the function of participating in the network. STA 104 participates in network 106, and STA 105 participates in network 109. AP 101 is connected to a WAN (Wide Area Network) 110 and can communicate with external networks such as the Internet.

[0013] In this embodiment, networks 106, 107, 108, and 109 are wireless LAN networks compliant with the IEEE 802.11 series standards. Specifically, each network corresponds to at least one of the IEEE 802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ax / be standards. IEEE stands for Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

[0014] Alternatively, each network may support other communication standards in addition to the IEEE 802.11 series standards, such as Bluetooth®, NFC, UWB, ZigBee, and MBOA. UWB stands for Ultra Wide Band, and MBOA stands for Multi Band OFDM Alliance. NFC stands for Near Field Communication. UWB includes wireless USB, wireless 1394, and WiNET. Furthermore, in addition to the IEEE 802.11 series standards, it may also support standards such as the Wi-Fi Direct standard developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance. It may also support wired communication standards such as wired LAN.

[0015] Furthermore, in this embodiment, AP102 has multiple wireless interfaces and can simultaneously establish multiple networks (networks 107 and 108). In this case, networks 107 and 108 use different frequency bands. For example, if network 107 uses the 2.4GHz band, network 108 uses the 5GHz band. Alternatively, even if networks 107 and 108 use the same frequency band, they should use frequency channels that have less interference. For example, if network 107 uses a channel belonging to W52 in the 5GHz band, network 108 should use a channel belonging to W53. In this way, AP102 can maintain multiple networks simultaneously.

[0016] In this embodiment, APs 101, 102, and 103 are compatible with the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard. In this case, the network encompassing networks 106, 107, 108, and 109 is referred to as the MAP (Multi-AP) network 111. The MAP network 111 is a network that includes APs 101, 102, and 103. AP 101 operates as a Multi-AP controller (controller) that controls the entire MAP network 111. APs 102 and 103 operate as Multi-AP agents (agents) that operate in the MAP network 111 based on control instructions from the controller. Note that AP 101 may have not only controller functionality but also agent functionality. In this case, control processing is performed through internal data exchange between the controller and agents of AP 101. Note that in this embodiment, the controller of the MAP network 111 also has AP functionality, but this is not limited to this, and it does not have to have AP functionality.

[0017] AP101, which is a controller, and agents AP102 and AP103 can communicate via the MAP network 111. Specifically, agent AP102 has a backhaul STA function for participating as a STA in the network 106 constructed by controller AP101. By agent AP102 participating in the network 106 constructed by controller AP101 through the backhaul STA function, AP101 and AP102 can communicate with each other. The function for AP102 to connect to a STA as an AP is called the front - hole AP function. By AP103 participating as a STA in the network 107 constructed by AP102, AP103 can communicate with AP101 via AP102. Thus, agents AP102 and AP103 can participate in the MAP network 111 by constructing a network as an AP and at the same time participating as a STA in a network constructed by another AP. The network constructed by another AP in which agent AP102 or 103 participates as a STA is called a backhaul BSS when viewed from AP102 or 103. On the other hand, the network in which AP102 or 103 allows a STA or another AP to participate as an AP is called a front - hole BSS when viewed from AP102 or 103. That is, for the same network, it is called a front - hole BSS when viewed from the AP that constructed the network, but it is called a backhaul BSS when viewed from the AP that participated in the network.

[0018] Note that the link established when an agent AP participates in a network constructed by another AP and used for communication with that other AP is called a backhaul link. In this case, depending on the AP that established a backhaul link with the AP that participated in the network constructed by the self - device, the backhaul link is established via the front - hole BSS. On the other hand, for the AP that participated in the network constructed by another AP and established a backhaul link with that other AP, the backhaul link is established via the backhaul BSS.

[0019] Note that the controller and the agent may distinguish between the network in which ordinary STAs participate and the network in which the agent participates, or may use the same network.

[0020] Also, the link established between the agent or the controller and the STA is called a front hole link.

[0021] The AP101, which is a controller, manages and controls agents and STAs within the MAP network 111. For example, the AP101, which is a controller, can control the frequency channel and transmission power of the network constructed by the agents AP102 and AP103 by transmitting a predetermined control message via the backhaul link. In addition to this, or alternatively, the AP101, which is a controller, may move the agent AP102 or AP103 to a different network. Or, in addition to or instead of these, the AP101 can control the steering of the STA. For example, the AP101 can perform roaming to move the connection destination of the STA105 participating in the network 109 constructed by the AP103 belonging to the MAP network 111 to the network 106 constructed by the AP101. Or, in addition to or instead of these, the AP1 can control data traffic between the AP and the STA or between the APs, perform diagnosis of each network, etc. Also, in addition to or instead of these, the AP101 can obtain information about the network from the agents AP102 and 103 via the backhaul link.

[0022] Agents AP102 and 103 can notify the controller AP101 of network information via the backhaul link. Network information notified by AP102 and 103 includes, for example, the agent's own capability information (such as HTCapability and VHT Capability) and the capability information of STAs and APs connected to the agent. Alternatively, the agent may notify the controller of information about its own wireless interface (wireless I / F) as part of its capability information. Information about the wireless I / F includes, for example, the MAC address of the wireless I / F the agent has and the wireless LAN communication method the agent supports. If the agent has multiple wireless I / Fs, it may notify the controller of information about each wireless I / F, or it may notify information about only some of the wireless I / Fs. Furthermore, if the agent has a wired interface (wired I / F) in addition to the wireless I / F, the capability information of the wired I / F may also be included. Information about the wired I / F includes, for example, the MAC address of the wired I / F and information about the physical link rate in the wired connection.

[0023] Control instructions from the controller AP101 are transmitted to and received from each agent (AP102 and AP103) via a backhaul link. In this embodiment, backhaul links are established between AP101 and AP102, and between AP102 and AP103, and communication takes place. Specifically, AP102 can build networks 107 and 108 while connecting to network 106 built by AP101 as a backhaul STA. In this case, network 106 as seen from AP101 is called the fronthaul BSS, and network 106 as seen from AP102 is called the backhaul BSS. A backhaul link is established between AP101 and AP102 via network 106. Similarly, AP103 can build network 109 while connecting to at least one of networks 107 and 108 built by AP102 as a backhaul STA. In this case, networks 107 and 108 as seen from AP102 are called fronthaul BSS, while networks 107 and 108 as seen from AP103 are called backhaul BSS. This establishes a backhaul link between AP102 and AP103. In this embodiment, backhaul links may be established between AP102 and AP103 via networks 107 and 108, respectively. In other words, multiple backhaul links may be established between AP102 and AP103. In this case, networks 107 and 108 are assumed to be networks that utilize frequency bands with low interference. For example, one frequency band may be the 2.4GHz band and the other frequency band may be the 5GHz band.

[0024] In this embodiment, an AP (Application Platform) is used as an example of a device that functions as a controller, but it is not limited to this, and may also be a communication device such as a PC, tablet, smartphone, mobile phone, or television. The same applies to a device that functions as an agent. Any device that satisfies the hardware configuration shown in Figure 2 is acceptable and is not limited to these.

[0025] Figure 2 shows the hardware configuration of AP103. AP101 comprises a power supply unit 201, an input unit 202, an output unit 203, a communication unit 204, an antenna 205, a memory unit 206, and a control unit 207.

[0026] The power supply unit 201 is a power supply unit that supplies power to each of the hardware components described later. The power supply unit 201 obtains power from, for example, an AC (Alternating Current) power supply or a battery.

[0027] The input unit 202 receives various operations from the user. For example, it includes modules such as buttons and a keyboard. The output unit 203 provides various outputs to the user. Here, the output from the output unit 203 includes at least one of the following: display on an LED, display on a screen, audio output from a speaker, vibration output, etc. Note that both the input unit 202 and the output unit 203 may be implemented in a single module, such as a touch panel. Furthermore, the input unit 202 and the output unit 203 may be integrated with AP103 or may be separate components.

[0028] The communication unit 204 controls wireless communication in accordance with the IEEE 802.11 series standard. In addition to this, or instead, the communication unit 204 may also control wired communication such as wired LAN as defined by IEEE 802.3 compliance, or control IP communication. The communication unit 204 transmits and receives wireless signals via the antenna 205. If AP101 can build multiple networks simultaneously, AP101 may have multiple communication units 204 and antennas.

[0029] Furthermore, the communication unit 204 includes a wireless interface. The wireless interface includes an RF (Radio Frequency) circuit, a wireless LAN chip, etc. The communication unit 204 may include multiple wireless interfaces; for example, it may be configured to include a wireless interface compatible with the 2.4GHz band and a wireless interface compatible with the 5GHz band. In this embodiment, AP101 has one wireless interface, and AP102 and AP103 each have two wireless interfaces.

[0030] The memory unit 206 is composed of one or more memories such as ROM and RAM, and stores various information such as computer programs for performing various operations described later, and communication parameters for wireless communication. ROM is an abbreviation for Read Only Memory, and RAM is an abbreviation for Random Access Memory. In addition to memories such as ROM and RAM, the memory unit 206 may also use storage media such as flexible disks, hard disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, CD-Rs, magnetic tapes, non-volatile memory cards, and DVDs. Furthermore, the memory unit 206 may have multiple memories.

[0031] The control unit 207 is composed of one or more processors, such as a CPU and an MPU, and controls the entire AP103 by executing a computer program stored in the memory unit 206. Alternatively, the control unit 207 may control the entire AP103 in cooperation with the computer program stored in the memory unit 206 and the OS (Operating System). The control unit 207 also generates data and signals to be transmitted in communication with other communication devices. Note that CPU stands for Central Processing Unit, and MPU stands for Micro Processing Unit. Furthermore, the control unit 207 may comprise multiple processors, such as a multi-core processor, and control the entire AP103 using these multiple processors.

[0032] Furthermore, the control unit 207 executes a program that causes the control unit 207 to function as the MAP (Multi-AP) controller unit 208 and the MAP agent unit 209 stored in the memory unit 206. The MAP controller unit 208 is a program that causes AP103 to operate as the controller of the MAP network 111. The MAP agent unit 209 is a program that causes AP103 to operate as the agent of the MAP network 111. When AP103 simultaneously assumes both the controller and agent roles, both functions of the MAP controller unit 208 and the MAP agent unit 209 are executed. When AP103 assumes only the controller role, that is, does not assume the agent role, only the functions of the MAP controller unit 208 are executed. In this case, the functions of the MAP agent unit 209 may be disabled. Similarly, when AP103 assumes only the agent role, that is, does not assume the controller role, only the functions of the MAP agent unit 209 are executed. In this case, the functions of the MAP controller unit 208 may be disabled.

[0033] Furthermore, the control unit 207 executes a program stored in the memory unit 206 to perform WPS-compliant wireless LAN parameter setting processing in order to establish a backhaul link. WPS is a Wi-Fi Protected Setup standard developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance. AP101 can share communication parameters for establishing a backhaul link with other APs by performing WPS-compliant parameter setting processing. The communication parameters include at least one of the following: SSID (Service Set Identifier), encryption method, encryption key, authentication method, and authentication key. In addition to communication parameters, information such as the frequency band to be used may also be included. Furthermore, the control unit 207 may, in addition to or instead of WPS, perform communication parameter setting processing compliant with the more secure DPP standard by executing a program stored in the memory unit 206. DPP is an abbreviation for Device Provisioning Protocol standard developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance.

[0034] AP101 and 102 have the same hardware configuration as AP103. Note that AP102 and 103 do not necessarily have controller functionality. In this case, the control unit 207 does not necessarily have the functionality of the MAP controller unit 208. Also, AP101 does not necessarily have agent functionality. In this case, the control unit 207 does not necessarily have the functionality of the MAP agent unit 209. Alternatively, AP102 may have both the MAP controller unit 208 and the MAP agent unit 209.

[0035] Figure 3 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the process that AP102 and AP103 perform when establishing multiple backhaul links.

[0036] In this embodiment, first, AP102 connects to network 106, which is constructed by AP101, as a backhaul STA, establishes a backhaul link, and is registered as an agent with AP101. This creates a MAP network 111 that includes AP101 and AP102. Next, AP103 connects to network 107, which is constructed by AP102, in order to participate in the MAP network 111, and establishes a backhaul link with AP102. Once AP103 has established a backhaul link with AP102, it is registered as an agent with AP101 via AP102. Subsequently, a second backhaul link is established between AP102 and AP103 via network 108. The above process will be explained in accordance with the sequence diagram shown in Figure 3.

[0037] This sequence begins with AP102 participating as a backhaul STA in network 106, which was established by AP101. Upon joining network 106, AP102 sends an IEEE 1905.1 AP-Autoconfiguration Search message via multicast (F301) as a search signal (search message) to find the controller.

[0038] When AP101 receives a search signal from AP102, if it is operating as a controller, it sends an AP-Autoconfiguration Response message to AP102 as a response signal (F302).

[0039] Upon receiving a response signal, AP102 sends an AP-Autoconfiguration WSC message to AP101, the controller, as a registration request signal to register itself (F303). This message contains information equivalent to an M1 message compliant with the WSC (Wi-Fi Simple Configuration) standard. Specifically, this message includes information such as AP102's MAC address and device name. In addition, the registration request signal includes information on AP102's wireless communication capabilities. Specifically, this wireless communication capability information includes information on the frequency bands (at least one of 2.4GHz and 5GHz) and available frequency channels that AP102 can use. In addition to or instead of this information, an identifier for uniquely identifying the network 106 to which AP102 is participating within the MAP network 111 may also be included.

[0040] Furthermore, this registration request signal may be extended to include information about the wireless interface (I / F) included in AP102 that can operate as a backhaul STA. Specifically, the information about the wireless interface is the MAC address of the wireless interface. Additionally, the registration request signal may be extended to include information about fronthaul BSSs that other APs can join, among the fronthaul BSSs that AP102 can construct. Specifically, the information about BSSs that other APs can join is the BSSID of the BSS. The information about BSSs that other APs can join may also include information on whether the BSS in question has already been constructed or not. Furthermore, the registration request signal may be extended to include information about AP102's capability to establish multiple backhaul links simultaneously.

[0041] When AP101 receives a registration request signal, it sends an AP-Autoconfiguration WSC message to AP102 as a registration response signal (F304). If AP101 successfully registers as an agent, the registration response signal includes a message equivalent to the WSC M2 message. In this case, the registration response signal includes the device name of AP101 and information indicating that no errors occurred. The registration response signal also includes an identifier to uniquely identify network 106 within the MAP network 111. The identifier included in the registration response signal may be the same as the identifier included in the registration request signal. If AP101 fails to register AP102 due to some error, a registration response signal indicating that an error occurred is sent.

[0042] AP102 may also provide notifications to the user in response to the registration response signal received from AP101 via F304. For example, if AP102 receives a registration response signal containing information indicating that no errors occurred, it may notify the user that registration was successful. Alternatively, AP102 may notify the user that it has joined the MAP network 111. On the other hand, if AP102 receives a registration response signal containing information indicating that an error occurred, it may notify the user that registration failed. Alternatively, it may notify the user that it was unable to join the MAP network 111. Furthermore, if the registration response signal contains information indicating the cause of the error, the cause of the error may be notified to the user.

[0043] In this embodiment, information regarding the wireless interface of AP102 and information regarding BSSs that other APs can join are included in the registration request signal transmitted from AP102, but this is not limited to this. AP101 may obtain this information from AP102 by sending a query message to AP102 to inquire about this information after completing the processing up to F304 and receiving a response message. Similarly, AP102 may also obtain information regarding its ability to establish multiple backhaul links simultaneously by sending a query message and receiving a response message.

[0044] Alternatively, if there is a version of the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard that supports the establishment of multiple backhaul links, AP102 may query the version of the standard it supports. In this case, AP101 can determine whether AP102 can establish multiple backhaul links based on the version information of the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard that AP102 supports.

[0045] By performing the above process, AP102 is registered with the controller AP101 as an agent of the MAP network 111. In addition, AP101 can obtain information about AP102's wireless interface and BSS that other APs can join, as well as AP102's capability to establish multiple backhaul links.

[0046] Next, a backhaul link is established between AP102 and AP103. In this case, the process of establishing a Layer 2 (data link layer) link of the OSI reference model between agents is called onboarding. Here, AP103 can be added to the MAP network 111 by performing the onboarding process between AP102 and 103. In the flow shown in Figure 3, the onboarding process is performed using a method compliant with the WPS standard.

[0047] First, to begin the onboarding process on AP102 and AP103, the user presses the button provided on each device. This button may be used in conjunction with the button used for setting communication parameters using the PBC (Push Button Configuration) method compliant with the WPS standard.

[0048] When a button is pressed on AP102 or AP103, the onboarding process is initiated in accordance with the WPS standard. First, AP102 sends a Beacon containing information indicating that the WPS process has started. AP103 detects AP102 as the AP performing WPS by receiving the Beacon sent by AP102. Alternatively, AP103 may detect AP102 by sending a Probe Request and receiving a Probe Response from AP102.

[0049] When AP103 detects AP102 as an AP performing WPS, it sends an Association Request to AP102 (F305). At that time, it sends an Association Request with a MAP IE (Multi-AP Information Element) attached. The MAP IE is an information element compliant with the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard and contains information indicating that AP103 is sending the Association Request as a backhaul STA.

[0050] When AP102 receives an Association Request, it sends an Association Response to AP103 in response (F306). The Association Response also includes a MAP IE. The MAP IE sent from AP102 contains information indicating that the target network 107 is a BSS that other APs can connect to.

[0051] AP102 and AP103 may also include information indicating whether their device is capable of establishing multiple backhaul links in their Association Request and Association Response, respectively.

[0052] When AP103 receives an Association Response, it performs WPS processing with AP102 and shares the communication parameters of AP102's fronthaul BSS that AP103 can join (F307). In this embodiment, AP102 provides AP103 with the communication parameters of network 107 and network 108 as the communication parameters of AP102's fronthaul BSS that AP103 can join. Note that the wireless LAN frames transmitted and received during WPS processing include MAP IE. Also, from AP103's perspective, network 107 is called the backhaul BSS.

[0053] When AP103 shares communication parameters with AP102 via WPS processing, the communication link between AP102 and AP103 is temporarily disconnected. Subsequently, AP103 uses the communication parameters of AP102's fronthaul BSS obtained via WPS processing to send an Association Request (F308) to AP102.

[0054] In this case, AP103 decides which network, network 107 or network 108, to join based on the results of the scan process. Specifically, AP103 performs a scan on at least the frequency channels used by network 107 and network 108 to determine which network has already been established. Based on the scan results, AP103 joins the network that has already been established. If a network has already been established, AP103 joins the network that was detected first. Alternatively, it joins the network selected by the user. Alternatively, it is determined based on the frequency band used by the network. In this case, the user may decide whether to prioritize the 2.4GHz network or the 5GHz network, or this may be pre-configured in AP103. In this embodiment, AP103 joins network 107.

[0055] Upon receiving an Association Request, AP102 sends an Association Response to AP103 as a response (F309). Both the Association Request and the Association Response are sent with a MAP IE appended. Through this process, a backhaul link is established between AP102 and AP103. Subsequently, the backhaul link is encrypted using a 4way-Handhake as needed.

[0056] Next, agent AP103 is registered with controller AP101. Specifically, AP103 searches for the controller and sends a registration request. The processing of F310~F313 is the same as the processing of F301~F304 described above, so the explanation is omitted. Also, AP101 obtains information about AP103's wireless interface and BSS that other APs can join, as well as AP103's capability to establish multiple backhaul links, just as with AP102.

[0057] Next, AP103 performs a determination process to determine whether to establish multiple backhaul links with AP102 by establishing a new backhaul link (F314). The details of this determination process will be explained in Figure 5 below. Here, we assume that AP103 has determined to establish multiple backhaul links with AP102.

[0058] When AP103 establishes a new backhaul link with AP102, it sends an Association Request (F315) to join AP102's network 108. The communication parameters used here are those obtained from AP102 during the WPS process in F307, which are the communication parameters for joining network 108. AP103 may also send an Association Request that includes information indicating the request to establish multiple backhaul links.

[0059] When AP102 receives an Association Request, it sends an Association Response to AP103 as a response (F316). If AP102 receives an Association Request from AP103 that includes information requesting the establishment of multiple backhaul links, it may decide whether or not to establish multiple backhaul links with AP103. In this case, if AP102 decides to establish multiple backhaul links with AP103, it sends an Association Response. On the other hand, if AP102 decides not to establish multiple backhaul links with AP103, it does not send an Association Response. Alternatively, AP102 sends an Association Response or response message that includes information indicating connection failure, error, or failure.

[0060] AP102 sends an Association Request, allowing AP103 to join AP102's network 108 and establish a second backhaul link with AP102.

[0061] AP102 and AP103 send backhaul establishment messages to AP101 (F317, F319) because the establishment of the new backhaul link is complete. The backhaul link establishment message indicates that the establishment of the new backhaul link is complete. The backhaul establishment message includes information about the newly established backhaul link. Specifically, the information about the newly established backhaul link includes information about the network on which the backhaul link was established. In this case, information about network 108 is included. Information about network 108 may include, for example, the BSSID of network 108, or the frequency band and frequency channel of network 108. Also, information about network 108 may include the SSID of AP102 which is building network 108. In addition to, or instead of, information about the network may include information about the backhaul STA as information about the backhaul link. Information about the backhaul STA may include, for example, the MAC address of the wireless I / F of AP103's backhaul STA. Alternatively, in addition to or instead of this information, the information regarding the backhaul link may include an identifier that uniquely identifies the backhaul link within the MAP network 111. The backhaul establishment messages transmitted by AP102 and AP103 may contain the same information, or they may contain this information in a distributed manner.

[0062] When AP101 receives a backhaul establishment message, it sends backhaul establishment confirmation messages to AP102 and AP103 respectively (F318, F320). The backhaul establishment confirmation message may include the identifier of the backhaul link that was included in the backhaul establishment message. AP101 can use this identifier to identify and control the target backhaul link.

[0063] In this embodiment, AP102 and AP103 each sent a backhaul establishment message, but this is not limited to this configuration; either AP may send the message. In this case, AP101 only needs to send a backhaul establishment confirmation message to the AP that sent the backhaul establishment message. Note that if at least one of AP102 and AP103 is operating as a controller, it is not necessary to send a backhaul establishment message. In this case, since one of the devices that established multiple backhaul links is operating as a controller, there is no need to notify the controller again of the establishment of multiple backhaul links.

[0064] In this embodiment, messages F317 to F320 are transmitted in a format compliant with the IEEE 1905.1 standard. However, they are not limited to this and may be transmitted in a format compliant with another standard.

[0065] As shown in Figure 3, the sequence notifies the controller when multiple backhaul links are established between agents. This allows the controller to understand the backhaul links established between agents within the MAP network and to control the MAP network, including these backhaul links.

[0066] In Figure 3, AP102 and AP103 shared communication parameters using the WPS method only the first time they established the backhaul link, but this is not limited to that. AP102 and AP103 may share communication parameters using the WPS method each time they establish a backhaul link.

[0067] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the process that is executed when AP103 establishes multiple backhaul links with AP102, by the control unit 207 reading and executing a computer program stored in the memory unit 206.

[0068] AP103 initiates processing of this flow based on a button being pressed by the user. The button is the one pressed by the user before F305 in Figure 3. Alternatively, AP103 may initiate processing of this flow if the user instructs AP103 to establish a backhaul link via another input instead of a button. Alternatively, AP103 may initiate processing of this flow based on a request from an application running on AP103.

[0069] AP103 first performs onboarding and registration processes (S401). The onboarding process is performed with AP102 and is shown in F305-F309 of Figure 3. By performing the onboarding process, the first backhaul link is established between AP103 and AP102. The registration process is performed with the controller AP101 and is shown in F310-F313 of Figure 3. By performing the registration process, AP103 is registered with the controller AP101 as an agent in the MAP network 111.

[0070] Next, AP103 obtains capability information of the target agent (AP102) (S402). The capability information obtained here indicates whether AP102 can establish multiple backhaul links simultaneously. In addition to or instead of this capability information, capability information related to wireless communication may be obtained. The capability information related to wireless communication includes information on the frequency bands (at least one of 2.4GHz and 5GHz) and available frequency channels that AP102 can use. In addition to or instead of this capability information, AP103 may also obtain information on wireless interfaces that can operate as backhaul STAs included in AP102, and information on BSSs that AP102 can build and that other APs can join. AP103 may obtain this information from the signal received from AP102 in S401, or it may obtain it by receiving a signal containing this information from AP102 in this step. Alternatively, AP103 may send a query message to AP102 to inquire about this information and obtain it from the response message. The query message and response message are transmitted and received via the backhaul link established between AP102 and AP103. This information may also be indicated in the MAP IE included in the signal (message) transmitted from AP102.

[0071] Alternatively, AP103 may obtain this information about AP102 from AP101, which is the controller. Since AP101, acting as the controller, manages the information about AP102, which is an agent in the MAP network 111, AP103 can obtain AP102's information from AP101.

[0072] Furthermore, in this embodiment, although S401 is described as obtaining multiple communication parameters from AP102 for connecting to a BSS that other APs can join, the process is not limited to this, and the parameters may be obtained in this step as well. Specifically, AP103 may obtain communication parameters for joining network 107 in S401, and then obtain communication parameters for joining network 108 via the established backhaul link. In this case, AP103 sends a request message to AP102 via the backhaul link established with AP102 to request communication parameters, and obtains communication parameters for joining network 108 in response. Note that AP102 may simply send the communication parameters for joining network 108 to AP103 via the backhaul link, not limited to requests from AP103. The above-described process for obtaining communication parameters may be performed before S406 is executed if Yes is determined in S405, rather than in S402.

[0073] Next, AP103 determines whether the connected agent (AP103) has the capability to establish multiple backhaul links (S403). In this step, AP103 makes the determination based on the information of AP102 obtained in S402. If AP103 obtains information in S402 that AP102 cannot establish multiple backhaul links, it determines No in this step. On the other hand, if AP103 obtains information in S402 that AP102 can establish multiple backhaul links, it determines Yes in this step. Alternatively, if AP103 obtains information in S402 regarding a BSS that AP102 can build and other APs can join, it may make the determination in this step based on whether a BSS different from the BSS to which its own device has already joined has been built. In this embodiment, AP103 determines whether AP102 has already built network 108. Specifically, AP103 performs a scan process and determines Yes in this step if it detects the BSS, and No if it does not detect it. In this case, AP103 performs the scan using a different wireless interface than the one with which it has already established a backhaul link with AP102. Also, if AP103 has obtained information on frequency channels used by BSS that AP102 can build and other APs can join, it may perform the scan only on the relevant frequency channel or on all channels.

[0074] AP103 may make the determination in this step based not only on the connected agent's information but also on its own device's information. If AP103 does not have the capability to establish multiple backhaul links, or if the user has set it not to establish multiple backhaul links, AP103 will determine No in this determination. Alternatively, in such a case, AP103 may terminate this flow without performing the processing from S402 onwards.

[0075] If AP103 determines that S403 is No, it terminates this flow. On the other hand, if it determines that S403 is Yes, AP103 proceeds to process S404.

[0076] AP103 performs a determination process to determine whether multiple backhaul links with AP102 are necessary (S404). This determination process is shown in Figure 5.

[0077] AP103 acquires the communication status of the backhaul link with the connected agent (AP102) (S501). In this embodiment, AP103 acquires link metrics for the backhaul link with AP102. Specifically, AP103 acquires capability information regarding the throughput of at least one of AP102 and AP103, as well as information regarding the physical rate and communication volume of the target backhaul link as link metrics. In this embodiment, AP103 acquires the link utilization rate, which is information regarding the communication volume of the backhaul link, as a link metric. AP103 determines that the communication volume of the backhaul link is high if the link utilization rate of the backhaul link is high, and determines that the communication volume of the backhaul link is low if the link utilization rate is low. In this step, AP103 may also acquire the radio wave conditions, which are indicated by the RSSI of at least one of AP102 and AP103, and the status of the frequency channel. RSSI stands for Received Signal Strength Indicator and indicates the received signal strength.

[0078] AP101 determines whether the traffic volume (link utilization) of the target backhaul link is above a predetermined threshold (S502). In this step, AP101 determines whether it is necessary to establish multiple backhaul links between agents based on the communication status between agents obtained in S501. In this embodiment, AP103 obtained the traffic volume (link utilization) of the backhaul link with AP102 as the communication status, and therefore makes the determination in this step based on this traffic volume (link utilization). If the traffic volume (link utilization) obtained in S501 is above a predetermined threshold, AP103 determines Yes in this step and proceeds to process S503. On the other hand, if the traffic volume (link utilization) obtained in S501 is below a predetermined threshold, AP103 determines No in this step and proceeds to process S504. The threshold used in this determination may be pre-set in AP103, or it may be set by AP101 calculated from link metrics of the entire MAP network 111, or it may be set by the user.

[0079] AP103 determines that multiple backhaul links are required (S503). Specifically, AP103 stores information that multiple backhaul links are required between it and AP102. On the other hand, in S504, AP103 determines that multiple backhaul links are not required. Specifically, it stores information that multiple backhaul links are not required between it and AP102. After performing the process in S503 or S504, AP103 terminates this flow.

[0080] In this embodiment, AP101 makes a determination in S502 based on the amount of data transmitted, but this is not limited to this. If AP101 has obtained the physical rate of the target backhaul link as a communication status in S501, AP101 may make a determination in S502 based on the physical rate. In this case, AP101 determines in S502 whether the physical rate is below a predetermined threshold. Alternatively, if AP101 has obtained capability information regarding the throughput of at least one of AP102 and AP103 as a communication status in S501, AP101 may make a determination in S502 based on throughput. In this case, AP101 determines in S502 whether the throughput is below a predetermined threshold.

[0081] Note that the determination process shown in Figure 5 is just one example and is not limited to this. In this embodiment, the determination was made based on the communication status between the target agents and the communication status of the entire MAP network, but it is not limited to this, and the necessity of multiple backhaul links may be determined based on user selection. In this case, the processes of S501 and S502 may be omitted. For example, if the user has configured the system to allow the establishment of multiple backhaul links in the MAP network 111, AP103 performs the process of S503. On the other hand, if the user has configured the system not to allow the establishment of multiple backhaul links in the MAP network 111, AP103 performs the process of S504. Alternatively, the user may configure whether or not to allow the establishment of multiple backhaul links between specific agents. User configuration may be performed via an STA connected to AP103 by a wired LAN or wireless LAN, or via the input section of AP103. Alternatively, it may be performed via another device connected via the external network to which AP101 is connected, or via an STA participating in the network within the MAP network 111.

[0082] Alternatively, AP103 may perform the determination shown in Figure 5 based on the radio wave conditions of the existing backhaul link. Specifically, if at least one of the RSSI of AP102 or AP103 is lower than a predetermined threshold, AP103 performs the process in S503 to establish multiple backhaul links between AP102 and AP103. If the RSSI is higher than the predetermined threshold, AP103 performs the process in S504. In this way, if the RSSI of the existing backhaul link between AP102 and AP103 is low, a backup backhaul link can be established by establishing multiple backhaul links.

[0083] Returning to the explanation of Figure 4, AP103 determines whether it is necessary to establish multiple backhaul links with AP102 (S405). AP103 makes this determination based on the result of the determination in S404. Specifically, if AP103 has performed the process in S503 in Figure 5, it determines Yes in this determination, and if it has performed the process in S504 in Figure 5, it determines No in this determination. If it determines No in this determination, AP103 returns to the process in S404. Alternatively, a timer may be set so that, for example, if it does not determine Yes in S405 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the initial determination of No in S405, AP103 terminates this flow. Or, if it determines No a predetermined number of times in a row in S405, AP103 terminates this flow. If it determines Yes in S405, AP103 performs the process in S406.

[0084] AP103 performs the process of establishing a backhaul link with the target agent (AP102) (S406). In this step, AP103 performs the processes shown in F315 and F316 of Figure 3. By performing this process, AP103 establishes a second backhaul link with AP102. Note that in this step, if AP103 fails to establish a wireless LAN connection with the target BSS (network 108), it may terminate the backhaul link establishment process. In this case, AP103 terminates the processing of this flow. AP103 also notifies the user that it has failed to establish multiple backhaul links with AP102. In such a case, AP102 may, or in addition to AP103, notify the user of the failure to establish multiple backhaul links. Once a backhaul link is established with AP102, AP103 performs the process in S407.

[0085] AP103 sends a backhaul establishment message to the controller AP101 to notify it that a new backhaul link has been established (S407). In this step, AP103 performs the process corresponding to F319 in Figure 3.

[0086] Next, AP103 determines whether it has received a backhaul establishment confirmation message from the controller, AP101 (S408). The backhaul establishment confirmation message received by AP103 in this step is the message shown at F320 in Figure 3. The backhaul establishment confirmation message may also include an identifier for identifying the backhaul link established in S406. If AP103 has not received a backhaul establishment confirmation message, it determines No in this step and repeats the process in S408. On the other hand, if AP103 has received a backhaul establishment confirmation message, it determines Yes in this step and terminates this flow. If AP103 has not received a backhaul establishment confirmation message within a predetermined time after sending the backhaul establishment message in S407, AP103 may terminate this flow. S408 may also be omitted.

[0087] Figure 4 illustrates the process that AP103 performs when establishing multiple backhaul links with AP102. When AP103 establishes a second backhaul link with AP102, it notifies the controller AP101 of the establishment of the new backhaul link, enabling AP101 to control that backhaul link.

[0088] Furthermore, the processes executed on the AP102 side when AP102 and AP103 establish multiple backhaul links will also be explained using Figure 4.

[0089] AP102 performs onboarding (S401). In this step, AP102 provides AP103 with communication parameters for joining networks 107 and 108. AP102 also establishes a backhaul link with AP103 on network 107. Note that AP102 is already registered as an agent with AP101, so registration is not required in this step.

[0090] AP102 obtains capability information of the connected agent (AP103) (S402). AP102 obtains capability information of AP103 by performing the same processing as AP103. Note that this step may be omitted. Also, AP102 skips the processing in S403 and proceeds to the processing in S406.

[0091] AP102 establishes a backhaul link with the destination agent (AP103) (S406). The processing in this step is shown in F315 and F316 of Figure 3.

[0092] When AP102 establishes a backhaul link with AP103, it sends a backhaul establishment message (S407). The message sent in this step is the message shown at F317 in Figure 3. The processing in this step is the same as the processing in S407 on the AP103 side.

[0093] Next, AP102 checks whether it has received a backhaul establishment confirmation message from AP101 (S408). The message sent in this step is the message shown at F318 in Figure 3. The processing in this step is the same as the processing in S408 on the AP103 side.

[0094] AP102 may have already established network 108, which is used to establish a new backhaul link, before this flow starts, or it may have already established it in a predetermined step up to S406.

[0095] In this embodiment, AP103 determines whether or not multiple backhaul links need to be established, but this is not limited to AP103, and AP102 may also make the determination. In that case, AP102 will perform the process in S402, but AP103 does not need to perform the process in S402. If AP102 determines that multiple backhaul links need to be established, AP102 will send a message to AP103 instructing it to send an Association Request. Alternatively, AP102 may send a request message requesting the establishment of multiple backhaul links. Upon receiving the request message, AP103 will send an Association Request to AP102.

[0096] Alternatively, both AP102 and AP103 may determine whether multiple backhaul links need to be established. If AP102 makes the determination first, and determines that multiple backhaul links need to be established, AP102 sends a message instructing AP102 to send an Association Request. Alternatively, AP102 sends a request message requesting the establishment of multiple backhaul links. Upon receiving these messages, AP103 may determine whether multiple backhaul links need to be established and perform processing according to the result of that determination. That is, if AP103 also determines that multiple backhaul links need to be established, AP103 sends an Association Request to AP102. Alternatively, in addition to the Association Request, AP102 may send a response message to AP103 to the request message before the Association Request. In this case, AP103 may include information indicating OK or information indicating that multiple backhaul links will be established in the response message. On the other hand, if AP103 determines that it is not necessary to establish multiple backhaul links, AP103 may choose not to send an Association Request or response message to AP102. Alternatively, AP103 may send AP102 a response message containing information indicating NG or information indicating that multiple backhaul links will not be established. Note that AP103 may make the determination first, rather than AP102.

[0097] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the process that is executed when multiple backhaul links are established between AP102 and AP103, by the control unit 207 reading and executing a computer program stored in the storage unit 206 of AP101.

[0098] AP101 initiates this flow when a new agent is registered within the MAP network 111. Alternatively, it may be initiated by user action.

[0099] AP101 determines whether it has received a backhaul establishment message from the agent (at least one of AP102 and AP103) (S601). The messages received in this step are those shown in F317 and F319 in Figure 3. If AP101 does not receive a backhaul establishment message, it repeats the process in S601. If a backhaul establishment message is not received within a predetermined time elapsed since the start of this flow, AP101 may terminate this flow. On the other hand, if a backhaul establishment message is received, AP101 performs the process in S602.

[0100] AP101 performs a registration process to register a new backhaul link (S602). Specifically, based on the information contained in the backhaul establishment message received in S601, AP101 registers information about the newly established backhaul link between AP102 and AP103 in its own device. The information registered here is at least a part of the information contained in the received backhaul establishment message. If the received backhaul establishment message contains an identifier for uniquely identifying the newly established backhaul link within the MAP network 111, that identifier is stored. If the identifier is not included in the backhaul establishment message, or if it overlaps with the identifier of another backhaul link, AP101 generates and stores an identifier for the relevant backhaul link. The identifier generated here may also be included in the backhaul establishment confirmation message sent in S603, described below.

[0101] Next, AP101 sends a backhaul establishment confirmation message (S603). The messages sent in this step are those shown as F318 and F320 in Figure 3. AP101 may also send the backhaul establishment confirmation message only to the agent that sent the backhaul establishment message received in S601. This step may also be omitted. After processing S603, AP101 terminates this flow.

[0102] Figure 6 illustrates the process that AP101 executes when AP102 and AP103 establish a new backhaul link. AP101 can also recognize a second backhaul link when AP102 and AP103, which are already registered as agents in the MAP network 111, are established, by receiving a notification. This allows AP101 to control the MAP network 111, including the new backhaul link established between AP102 and AP103. Furthermore, AP101 can send control instructions for the relevant backhaul link.

[0103] Examples of control instructions that AP101 can send as a controller include query messages to obtain the traffic volume of the target backhaul link. Alternatively, AP101 can instruct changes to the frequency channel or frequency band used for the target backhaul link. AP101 can also instruct the termination of the backhaul link in question. Furthermore, AP101 can instruct control of data traffic through the backhaul link in question, or to diagnose the network of the target backhaul link. As data traffic control, AP101 may instruct distributed control, which distributes data communication across multiple backhaul links, including the backhaul link in question. AP101 may also perform switching control, which switches which backhaul link to use for data communication depending on the state of the backhaul link between AP102 and AP103.

[0104] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the process that occurs when AP103 stops a predetermined backhaul link established between it and AP102, by having the control unit 207 read and execute a computer program stored in the memory unit 206. Note that the process shown in this flowchart may also be performed by AP102 instead of AP103.

[0105] This flow is initiated based on the establishment of multiple backhaul links with AP102. Alternatively, it may be initiated by user instruction.

[0106] AP103 performs a determination process to determine whether multiple backhaul links with AP102 are necessary (S701). The process in this step is the same as in Figure 5. In this case, the process in S501 in Figure 5 may be omitted. Also, in S502, AP103 determines whether the communication volume (link utilization) of each of the multiple backhaul links established with AP102 is below a predetermined threshold. The threshold in this step is smaller than the threshold for determination in S404 in Figure 4. If the communication volume (link utilization) of any one of the backhaul links is below the predetermined threshold, AP103 determines that multiple backhaul links are unnecessary. On the other hand, if the communication volume (link utilization) of any of the backhaul links is higher than the predetermined threshold, AP103 determines that multiple backhaul links are necessary.

[0107] Alternatively, if multiple backhaul links are established between agents for the purpose of backing up the backhaul link, the determination may be made based on the radio wave conditions of the backhaul link used for the primary purpose. Specifically, if the RSSI of the backhaul link used for the primary purpose is above a predetermined threshold, AP103 will determine that multiple backhaul links with AP102 are unnecessary. On the other hand, if the RSSI of the backhaul link used for the primary purpose is below a predetermined threshold, AP103 will determine that multiple backhaul links with AP102 are necessary.

[0108] Next, AP103 determines whether multiple backhaul links are necessary with the connected agent (AP102) based on the result of the determination process in S701 (S702). If it is determined that multiple backhaul links are necessary, AP103 terminates the processing of this flow and maintains the multiple backhaul links. On the other hand, if it is determined that multiple backhaul links are not necessary, AP103 performs the processing in S703.

[0109] AP103 stops the target backhaul link (S703). The backhaul link to be stopped here is the one that was determined in S701 to have a communication volume (link utilization) below a predetermined threshold. If the communication volume (link utilization) of both backhaul links is below the predetermined threshold, AP103 may be pre-configured to determine which backhaul link to stop. In this case, AP103 may decide based on the frequency band (2.4GHz or 5GHz) in which the backhaul link is established, or it may decide to keep the one with the higher communication volume (link utilization). Alternatively, the user may choose which backhaul link to keep. In this embodiment, AP103 stops the backhaul link with AP102 established on network 108. Specifically, AP103 disconnects the wireless LAN connection with network 108. If AP102 performs this process, AP102 stops network 108.

[0110] Next, AP103 sends a target backhaul stop message to AP101, the controller, to notify AP101 that the backhaul link has stopped (S704). The stop message sent in this step includes an identifier to identify the target backhaul link. The stop message may also include information indicating the reason for stopping the backhaul link. The reason for the stop may be indicated by an error code or the like. After processing S704, AP103 terminates this flow.

[0111] When AP101 receives a backhaul stop message, it deletes information about the corresponding backhaul link from its own device based on the identifier contained in the stop message. Alternatively, AP101 remembers that the corresponding backhaul link is unavailable or has been stopped.

[0112] Figure 7 illustrates the process that AP103 executes when stopping the backhaul link with AP102. By performing this process, AP103 can notify the controller, AP101, of the termination of one of the multiple backhaul links established with AP102. This allows AP101 to be aware of the terminated backhaul link and to control the entire MAP network 111 more appropriately.

[0113] In this embodiment, the WPS method is used when establishing the backhaul link, but it is not limited to this, and the DPP method may also be used. In the DPP method, communication parameters are shared in a manner compliant with the Wi-Fi DPP standard. In the communication parameter sharing process compliant with the Wi-Fi DPP standard, the device that provides the communication parameters is called the Configurator, and the device that acquires the communication parameters is called the Enrollee. The Enrollee can join the network using the communication parameters acquired from the Configurator. The Configurator can provide communication parameters not only to the STA but also to the AP, allowing the AP to build a network that utilizes the provided communication parameters.

[0114] Figure 8 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the process executed when AP102 and AP103 establish multiple backhaul links using the DPP method. In this embodiment, AP101 acts as the Configurator, and AP102 and AP103 act as Enrollees. Furthermore, at the start of the sequence in Figure 8, AP101 has already shared communication parameters with AP102 using the DPP method, and AP102 is participating in the network 106 constructed by AP101.

[0115] First, AP102 sends an AP-Autoconfiguration Search message (F801) to search for controllers within the MAP network 111. This process is the same as F301 in Figure 3.

[0116] First, AP102 sends an AP-Autoconfiguration Search message (F801) to search for controllers within the MAP network 111. This process is the same as F301 in Figure 3.

[0117] When AP101 receives a search signal from AP102, it acts as a controller and sends an AP-Autoconfiguration Response message to AP102 (F802). This process is the same as F302 in Figure 3.

[0118] In Figure 3, the WPS method was used, so AP-Autoconfiguration WSC messages were sent and received between AP101 and AP102, and between AP101 and AP103 (F303, F304, F312, F313 in Figure 3). However, when using the DPP method, sending and receiving these messages is unnecessary. Therefore, in this process, a message containing information about the wireless communication capabilities of AP102 and AP103, as well as information about the wireless interface and BSSs that other APs can participate in, is sent instead of the WSC message. Alternatively, this information may be included in the AP-Autoconfiguration Search message sent from AP102 or AP103. Alternatively, AP101 may send a query message to request the acquisition of this information, and AP102 and AP103 may include the relevant information in their response message to the query message.

[0119] Next, in order for AP103 to establish a new backhaul link with AP102, DPP sharing processing is first performed between AP101 and AP103 (F803). DPP sharing processing includes bootstrapping, authentication, and configuration processing.

[0120] First, AP101 and AP103 perform bootstrapping. During bootstrapping, public key information is shared between the Configurator and the Enrollee. Specifically, the Configurator uses its camera function to capture and share the public key information contained in the QR code (registered trademark) associated with the Enrollee. However, the public key information may also be shared via Bluetooth communication or NFC communication. Alternatively, it may be shared using the PKEX method, which uses a common string to share the public key information between the Configurator and the Enrollee.

[0121] Next, AP101 and AP103 perform authentication processing. Authentication processing is the authentication process performed between the Configurator and the Enrollee. In this process, the Configurator and the Enrollee exchange authentication request, authentication response, and authentication confirmation frames to authenticate the other device.

[0122] Next, AP101 and AP103 perform a configuration process. In the configuration process, the Configurator provides the Enrollee with a communication parameter called a Connector. A Connector is various information used in the authentication protocol and key exchange algorithm defined by the Wi-Fi DPP standard. In this embodiment, the Connector is information for joining network 107, which is constructed by AP102. In the configuration process, the information provided by AP101 may include information for identifying the connection destination using communication parameters, such as the SSID of the AP to connect to. In this embodiment, AP103 obtains both a Connector for joining network 107 and a Connector for joining network 108.

[0123] AP103 performs DPP connection processing using the Connector acquired from AP101 (F804). Specifically, AP103 uses the acquired Connector to join network 107 established by AP102 and establish a backhaul link.

[0124] AP103 sends an AP-Autoconfiguration Search message to AP101 (F805). In response, AP101 sends an AP-Autoconfiguration Response message to AP103 (F806). These processes are the same as F310 and F311 in Figure 3. Also, as with the processes in F801 and F802, information about AP103's wireless communication capabilities and information about the wireless interface and BSSs that other APs can join may be sent in F805 or sent using a separate message.

[0125] AP103 determines whether to establish multiple backhaul links with AP102 (F807). This process is the same as F314 in Figure 3. In this embodiment, it is assumed that AP103 has determined to establish multiple backhaul links with AP102.

[0126] AP103 performs connection processing to connect to network 108 using the network 108 connector acquired by F803 (F808). As a result, AP103 can join AP102's network 108 and establish a second backhaul link with AP102.

[0127] The processing of F809 to F812 in Figure 8 is the same as the processing of F317 to F320 in Figure 3.

[0128] As shown in Figure 8, AP102 and AP103 can perform onboarding processing using the DPP method. Note that in Figure 8, AP103 acquires connectors for networks 107 and 108 during the initial DPP sharing process, but this is not limited to this. AP103 may perform DPP sharing processing each time it establishes a backhaul link with AP102.

[0129] As shown in Figures 3 and 8, AP102 and 103 send different signals to the controller AP101 when they establish the first backhaul link and when they establish a second or subsequent backhaul link. Specifically, when AP102 and AP103 establish the first backhaul link, AP103 communicates with AP101 the signals shown in F310-F313 in Figure 3 and F805-F806 in Figure 8. This allows AP101 to understand that AP103, a new agent, has joined the MAP network 111, and that the first backhaul link has been established between AP102 and AP103. When a second or subsequent backhaul link is established between AP102 and 103, at least one of AP102 and 103 communicates with AP101 the signals shown in F317-F320 in Figure 3 and F809-F812 in Figure 8. By communicating these signals, AP101 can determine that multiple backhaul links have been established between AP102 and AP103.

[0130] In this embodiment, AP102 and 103 do not communicate with AP101 via the signals shown F317-F320 in Figure 3 and F809-F812 in Figure 8 when the first backhaul link is established, but this is not limited to this. At least one of AP102 and 103 may communicate with AP101 via the signals shown F317-F320 in Figure 3 and F809-F812 in Figure 8 after the signals shown F310-F313 in Figure 3 and F805-F806 in Figure 8. In this case, AP102 may include information in the backhaul establishment message indicating how many backhaul links have been established with AP103. The same applies to AP103.

[0131] Furthermore, in this embodiment, AP102 and 103 notify AP101 of the establishment of a new backhaul link by sending a backhaul establishment message to AP101, but this is not limited to this. AP102 may send a backhaul count notification message indicating the number of backhaul links established with AP103, instead of or in addition to the backhaul establishment message. The same applies to AP103.

[0132] In this embodiment, we have described a case where multiple APs are connected via a wireless network and perform wireless communication. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and at least some APs may be connected via a wired network and perform wired communication. Furthermore, when establishing multiple backhaul links, one may be established via wired communication and the other via wireless communication.

[0133] Furthermore, in this embodiment, AP102 may perform the processing that AP103 would normally perform. In this case, AP103 will perform the processing that AP102 would normally perform.

[0134] Furthermore, AP101, AP102, and AP103 may select the more secure DPP method if the device sharing communication parameters supports both WPS and DPP methods. Alternatively, the user may choose which sharing process to perform. Or, if the device only supports one method, that method will be selected.

[0135] Furthermore, at least part or all of the flowcharts for AP101 and AP103 shown in Figures 4, 5, 6, and 7 may be implemented in hardware. When implemented in hardware, for example, a dedicated circuit can be generated on an FPGA from a computer program to implement each step using a predetermined compiler, and this can then be utilized. FPGA stands for Field Programmable Gate Array. Alternatively, a Gate Array circuit can be formed in a similar manner to an FPGA and implemented as hardware. It may also be implemented using an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). Additionally, each step in the flowcharts shown in Figures 4, 5, 6, and 7 may be distributed and performed by multiple CPUs or devices (not shown). The same applies to the sequences in Figures 3 and 8.

[0136] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0137] 101 AP 102 AP 103 AP 104 STA 105 STA 106 Network 107 Network 108 Network 109 Network 110 WAN 111 MAP Network

Claims

1. A communication device that operates as a base station having the function of building a network, A control device that controls a network consisting of multiple base stations, and communication means for communicating with a control device, and establishing means for establishing a link with other base stations belonging to the network for communication with those other base stations, When multiple links are established with the aforementioned other base stations, a notification means is provided to notify the control device via the communication means that the links have been established. A communication device characterized by having the following features.

2. The aforementioned other base station further includes a first determination means for determining whether it can establish multiple links for communication, The communication device according to claim 1, characterized in that the establishment means does not establish multiple links with the other base station if the first determination means determines that it is not possible to establish multiple links with the other base station for communication.

3. The communication device according to claim 2, further comprising a second determination means for determining whether to establish multiple links with the other base station when the first determination means determines that the other base station can establish multiple links, wherein the establishment means establishes multiple links with the other base station when the second determination means determines that multiple links can be established with the other base station.

4. The system further includes a first acquisition means for acquiring information about a first link used for communication that has been established between the system and the other base stations, The communication device according to claim 3, characterized in that the second determination means makes a determination based on information regarding the first link.

5. The first acquisition means acquires information regarding the communication volume of the first link, The communication device according to claim 4, characterized in that the second determination means determines that if the amount of communication of the first link is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, it will establish a plurality of links for communication with the other base stations.

6. A third determination means for determining whether multiple links are necessary with the other base station when multiple links have been established with the other base station, The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a stopping means for stopping one of the plurality of links when the third determination means determines that the plurality of links are not necessary.

7. The system further includes a third acquisition means for acquiring information regarding the communication volume of the aforementioned multiple links, The third determination means determines that if the communication volume of at least one of the plurality of links is lower than a predetermined threshold, the plurality of links are not necessary. The communication device according to claim 6, characterized in that the stopping means stops one of the plurality of links whose communication volume is lower than a predetermined threshold.

8. The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the link with the other base station is a backhaul link compliant with the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard, and is established by performing communication parameter sharing processing using the WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) method compliant with the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard.

9. The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the link with the other base station is a backhaul link compliant with the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard, and is established by performing communication parameter sharing processing using a DPP (Device Provisioning Protocol) method compliant with the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard.

10. The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the control device has the role of a controller in the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard, and the communication device and the other base station have the role of agents in the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard.

11. The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, when the communication device is participating in a first wireless network constructed by the control device, the notification means transmits a notification message to the control device indicating that the link has been established via wireless communication over the first wireless network.

12. The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, when the communication device is connected to the control device via a wired network, the notification means transmits a notification message indicating that the link has been established via wired communication.

13. The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein if the communication device is participating in a first wireless network established by the other communication device, and the other communication device is participating in a second wireless network established by the control device, the notification means transmits a notification message to the other communication device via wireless communication over the first wireless network indicating that the link has been established, and the other communication device transmits the notification message to the control device via wireless communication over the second wireless network.

14. The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the communication device is connected to the other communication device via a wired network, and the other communication device is connected to the control device via a wired network, the notification means transmits a notification message to the other communication device via wired communication indicating that the link has been established, and the other communication device transmits the notification message to the control device via wired communication.

15. The communication device according to any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the notification means transmits a backhaul establishment message as the notification message, which is a message indicating that the establishment of a new backhaul link has been completed.

16. The communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising a search means for searching for the control device in the network by transmitting a search message different from the notification message, based on the fact that the link has been established with the other base station by the establishment means when the link has not been established with the other base station.

17. The communication device according to claim 16, characterized in that the search message is an AP-Autoconfiguration Search message compliant with the Wi-Fi EasyMesh standard.

18. A control method for a communication device that operates as a base station having the function of building a network, A communication process for communicating with a control device that controls a network consisting of multiple base stations, and an establishment process for establishing a link with other base stations belonging to the network for use in communication with those other base stations, When multiple links are established with the aforementioned other base stations, a notification step is performed to notify the control device that the links have been established. A control process characterized by having the following:

19. A program for operating a computer as a communication device according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

Images