PVB information synchronization method and apparatus, device, and system

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of communications, and provides a PVB information synchronization method and apparatus, a device, and a system. The method is applied to a communication system. The communication system comprises a first access point and other access points. The first access point has the same BSSID as the other access points. The first access point is connected to the other access points, and acquires PVB information of actual associated stations from the other access points. The first access point aggregates the PVB information and then issues same to all access points. Thus, the PVB information of all access points is synchronized, thereby reducing the possibility of station sleep disorder. Moreover, because the access point can acquire the PVB information of all stations, seamless roaming of the stations is enabled during roaming.

Description

Methods, apparatus, equipment and systems for PVB information synchronization

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application filed on November 4, 2024, with application number 202411570018.5, entitled "Method, Apparatus, Device and System for PVB Information Synchronization", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of optical communication technology, and in particular to a method, apparatus, device and system for PVB information synchronization. Background Technology

[0003] Wireless local area networks (WLANs) are becoming increasingly popular. A WLAN includes stations (STAs) and access points (APs). To reduce station power consumption, access points periodically broadcast beacon frames. These beacon frames include a partial virtual bitmap (PVB) information field, which indicates whether the station has its own downlink data. Stations periodically wake up at the beacon frame time point, receive the beacon frame, and determine if downlink data exists. If it does, they enter the working state; otherwise, they remain in sleep mode.

[0004] As WLAN networking becomes increasingly complex, multiple access points will send Beacon frames. Sites will receive Beacon frames sent by other access points, which in turn will cause sites to receive PVB information sent by different access points. This PVB information may cause the site to experience sleep disorder and miss downlink data. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a method, apparatus, device, and system for synchronizing PVB information, which can synchronize PVB information in a WLAN, thereby reducing the possibility of sleep disorder. The technical solution adopted is as follows:

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a method for synchronizing PVB information. This method is applied to a first access point in a communication system, where all access points in the system share the same Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID). The first access point is connected to other access points in the communication system. The method includes: receiving PVB information of real associated sites sent by the other access points; and sending PVB summary information to the other access points, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system.

[0007] In the scheme shown in this application, the communication system includes a first access point and other access points. The first access point has the same BSSID as the other access points and is connected to them. The other access points report the PVB information of the actual associated sites to the first access point. The first access point summarizes the PVB information and distributes it to all access points. In this way, the PVB information of all access points is synchronized, thereby reducing the possibility of site hibernation chaos. Moreover, since the access points can obtain the PVB information of all sites, site roaming is seamless during roaming.

[0008] When summarizing PVB information, the PVB information of the first access point is also included in the summarization.

[0009] The aforementioned communication system is a fiber-to-the-room (FTTR) system or an FTTR network.

[0010] In one alternative approach, the first access point receives PVB information of the real associated site periodically sent by the other access point, thus enabling the first access point to acquire PVB information at regular intervals; and / or, the first access point receives PVB information sent by the other access point after the PVB information of the real associated site changes. In this way, the first access point can promptly acquire the changed PVB information and synchronize it with all access points in the WLAN, allowing each site to obtain its own PVB value in a timely manner and perform corresponding operations.

[0011] In one alternative approach, the other access point sends the PVB information of the actual associated site after broadcasting the first Beacon frame. The first access point sends the PVB information earlier than the other access point broadcasts the second Beacon frame, which is the first Beacon frame broadcast by the other access point after the first Beacon frame. This second Beacon frame includes the PVB summary information. This ensures that the Beacon frame broadcast by the second access point includes the latest PVB summary information, allowing sites to obtain their own PVB information in a timely manner.

[0012] In one alternative approach, there are several ways to indicate the PVB value of the actual associated site. Two possible methods are provided below: First, the PVB information includes the PVB value of the actual associated site, allowing the first access point to directly obtain the site's PVB value. Second, the PVB information includes a first identifier and a second identifier of the actual associated site, where the first identifier indicates whether the actual associated site is in a dormant state, and the second identifier indicates whether the actual associated site is receiving data. In this way, the first access point can determine the site's PVB value based on the first and second identifiers.

[0013] In one alternative approach, when the PVB information includes a first identifier and a second identifier of the actual associated site, the first access point can determine whether each site is in a dormant state and whether data is being received, and decide whether to wake up the site, i.e., determine the site's PVB value. Thus, the PVB value can be determined even when sending the first and second identifiers.

[0014] In one optional approach, the PVB information also includes the identifier of the access point interface associated with the actual associated site, with a one-to-one correspondence between the PVB summary information and the access point interface. When the first access point sends the PVB summary information, it also carries the identifier of the access point interface, so that after the second access point receives the PVB summary information, it broadcasts the PVB summary information on the access point interface corresponding to the PVB summary information, thereby enabling the site associated with that access point interface to receive it.

[0015] In one alternative approach, when the second access point reports PVB information, it can include it in the synchronous reporting message and send it together with other synchronous reporting messages. This reduces the number of messages exchanged between access points, thereby saving message maintenance resources.

[0016] In one alternative approach, when the first access point sends out PVB summary information, it can include it in the network synchronization message and send it together with other network synchronization information. This reduces the number of messages exchanged between access points, thereby saving message maintenance resources.

[0017] In one alternative approach, both the Beacon frame transmission indication and the PVB summary information are carried in the network synchronization message. Since the Beacon frame transmission indication indicates the transmission of a Beacon frame, and the Beacon frame includes PVB summary information, the access point will transmit the Beacon frame upon receiving the Beacon frame transmission indication, thus ensuring that the PVB summary information is promptly included in the Beacon frame for transmission.

[0018] In one alternative approach, the first access point is the master FTTR device in the FTTR system, and the other access points are slave FTTR devices in the same system. This enables the synchronization of PVB information among the devices in the FTTR system.

[0019] Secondly, this application provides a method for synchronizing PVB information. This method is applied to a second access point in a communication system where all access points share the same BSSID. A first access point in the communication system is connected to other access points, including the second access point. The method includes: sending PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point; receiving PVB summary information sent by the first access point, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system; and broadcasting a Beacon frame, wherein the Beacon frame includes the PVB summary information.

[0020] In the scheme shown in this application, the communication system includes a first access point and other access points. The first access point has the same BSSID as the other access points. The other access points include a second access point. The second access point reports the PVB information of the actual associated sites to the first access point. The first access point summarizes the PVB information and distributes it to all access points. After receiving the summarized PVB information, the second access point broadcasts a Beacon frame containing the summarized PVB information. In this way, the second access point can obtain the summarized PVB information of all sites in the communication system, thereby enabling seamless site roaming.

[0021] In one alternative approach, when reporting PVB information, the second access point periodically sends the PVB information of the actual associated site to the first access point, allowing the first access point to periodically obtain the PVB information; and / or, when the PVB information of the actual associated site changes, the second access point sends the PVB information of the actual associated site to the first access point. This ensures that the first access point can promptly obtain the changed PVB information and synchronize it with all access points in the WLAN, enabling each site to obtain its own PVB value in a timely manner.

[0022] In one alternative approach, the second access point sends the PVB information of the actual associated site after broadcasting the first Beacon frame. The first access point sends the PVB information earlier than the second access point broadcasts the second Beacon frame, which is the first Beacon frame broadcast by the second access point after the first Beacon frame. This second Beacon frame includes the PVB summary information. This ensures that the Beacon frames broadcast by the second access point include the latest PVB summary information, allowing sites to obtain their own PVB information in a timely manner.

[0023] In one optional approach, the PVB information includes the PVB value of the actual associated site, so that after the second access point reports the PVB information, the first access point can directly obtain the site's PVB value; alternatively, the PVB information includes a first identifier and a second identifier of the actual associated site, wherein the first identifier indicates whether the actual associated site is in a dormant state, and the second identifier indicates whether the actual associated site is receiving data. Thus, after the second access point reports the PVB information, the first access point can determine the site's PVB value based on the first and second identifiers.

[0024] In one optional approach, the PVB information also includes the identifier of the access point interface associated with the actual associated site, with a one-to-one correspondence between the PVB summary information and the access point interface. When the first access point sends the PVB summary information, it also carries the identifier of the access point interface, so that after the second access point receives the PVB summary information, it broadcasts the PVB summary information on the access point interface corresponding to the PVB summary information, thereby enabling the site associated with that access point interface to receive it.

[0025] In one alternative approach, when the second access point reports PVB information, it can include it in the synchronous reporting message and send it together with other synchronous reporting messages. This reduces the number of messages exchanged between access points, thereby saving message maintenance resources.

[0026] In one alternative approach, when the first access point sends out PVB summary information, it can include it in the network synchronization message and send it together with other network synchronization information. This reduces the number of messages exchanged between access points, thereby saving message maintenance resources.

[0027] In one alternative approach, both the Beacon frame transmission indication and the PVB summary information are carried in the network synchronization message. Since the Beacon frame transmission indication indicates the transmission of a Beacon frame, and the Beacon frame includes PVB summary information, the access point will transmit the Beacon frame upon receiving the Beacon frame transmission indication, thus ensuring that the PVB summary information is promptly included in the Beacon frame for transmission.

[0028] In one alternative approach, the first access point is the master FTTR device in the FTTR system, and the other access points are slave FTTR devices in the same system. This enables the synchronization of PVB information among the devices in the FTTR system.

[0029] Thirdly, this application provides a PVB information synchronization apparatus, which has the function of implementing the first aspect or any optional method of the first aspect described above. The apparatus includes at least one module for implementing the method provided by the first aspect or any optional method of the first aspect.

[0030] Fourthly, this application provides an apparatus for synchronizing PVB information, which has the function of implementing the second aspect or any optional method of the second aspect described above. The apparatus includes at least one module for implementing the method provided by the second aspect or any optional method of the second aspect.

[0031] Fifthly, this application provides a first access point, which includes a processor, a memory, and a communication interface. The processor is used to execute program instructions in the memory to implement the method provided in the first aspect or any optional manner of the first aspect. The communication interface is used to communicate with other access points and stations.

[0032] In a sixth aspect, this application provides a second access point, the second access point including a processor, a memory and a communication interface; the processor is used to execute program instructions in the memory to implement the method provided in the second aspect or any optional manner of the second aspect, and the communication interface is used to communicate with a station and a first access point.

[0033] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a communication system comprising a first access point and a second access point. The first access point is used to implement the method provided in the first aspect or any optional method thereof, and the second access point is used to implement the method provided in the second aspect or any optional method thereof. The communication system may be an FTTR system or an FTTR network.

[0034] Eighthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing at least one program instruction that is read by a processor to cause a first access point to perform the method provided in the first aspect or any alternative manner of the first aspect.

[0035] Ninthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing at least one program instruction that is read by a processor to cause a second access point T to perform the method provided in the second aspect or any alternative method of the second aspect.

[0036] In a tenth aspect, this application provides a computer program product including program instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium. A processor of a first access point reads the program instructions from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the program instructions, causing the first access point to perform the method provided in the first aspect or any optional method of the first aspect.

[0037] Eleventhly, this application provides a computer program product including program instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium. A processor at a second access point reads the program instructions from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the program instructions, causing the second access point to perform the method provided in the second aspect or any optional method of the second aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of an FTTR system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 3 is a schematic flowchart of a method for synchronizing PVB information provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the PVB information synchronization process in an exemplary embodiment of this application in an FTTR system;

[0042] Figure 5 is another flowchart illustrating a method for synchronizing PVB information provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 6 is a schematic flowchart of another method for synchronizing PVB information provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a PVB information synchronization device provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of another structure of the device for synchronizing PVB information provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a device provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0047] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] A wireless network includes multiple access points (APs), which provide communication system services. A site can be associated with a particular AP. Currently, a site is associated with access point A. After moving, the site may roam from access point A to access point B. To avoid network interruptions caused by roaming from access point A to node B, the BSSIDs of multiple access points are set to the same BSSID, and key site information is synchronized among access points with the same BSSID. This way, even if the site roams, the site will not perceive network interruptions during the roaming process because the new access point contains the site's key information, thus improving the communication system's connection experience. Therefore, information synchronization among multiple access points is crucial. For example, multiple access points may send Beacon frames. A site may receive Beacon frames from other access points, leading to the site receiving PVB information from different access points. This PVB information may cause sleep confusion for the site, resulting in missed downlink data. Therefore, a scheme for PVB information synchronization is needed.

[0049] Based on this, embodiments of this application provide a method for synchronizing PVB information. In this method, the WLAN includes a first access point and other access points. The first access point is connected to the other access points, and the other access points report the PVB information of the actual associated sites to the first access point. The first access point summarizes the PVB information and distributes it to all access points. In this way, the PVB information of all access points is synchronized.

[0050] The system architecture of an embodiment of this application is described below.

[0051] Figure 1 provides a system architecture diagram of a communication system. The communication system includes multiple access points; the number of access points is not limited in this embodiment. The multiple access points include a first access point and other access points, which are all access points other than the first access point. The first access point and the other access points are connected via optical fiber, and the first access point and the other access points have the same BSSID. Each access point provides network services to a site, including devices such as mobile phones, computers, or tablets. Because the communication system uses the same BSSID, it is also called a single BSSID system or a single BSSID network. In Figure 1, the other access points include a second access point and a third access point.

[0052] For example, the system shown in Figure 2 is an FTTR system. In an FTTR system, the master device acts as both an optical network terminal (ONT) in a fiber-to-the-home / office (FTTH / O) network and an upstream device for the FTTR slave devices, managing them. In FTTH / O, the OLT is deployed in a central equipment room, while the ONT is deployed in homes or offices. In FTTR, the slave devices can be deployed in various rooms of a home or office area to provide signals to user terminals (i.e., sites). The slave devices possess the functions of an ONT and can also function as wireless access points.

[0053] In an FTTR network, multiple slave devices can be deployed, each connected to the master device via an optical splitter. The master device can centrally manage and configure all slave devices. The master device can also be called a "master gateway," "master optical modem," "master FTTR unit (MFU)," or "master optical network unit," etc., while slave devices can be called "slave gateways," "slave optical modems," "slave FTTR devices," "sub FTTR units (SFU)," or "slave optical network units," etc.

[0054] The first access point is an MFU, and the other access points are SFUs.

[0055] Optionally, in this FTTR system, when a site is associated with an access point, the MFU assigns a unique identifier to the site. This unique identifier is called the allocation identifier (AID). In this way, in the FTTR system, one AID uniquely corresponds to one site.

[0056] Optionally, in the communication system, the first access point transmits messages with other access points using a Wi-Fi management and control interface (WMCI).

[0057] For example, communication systems have the following application scenarios.

[0058] In application scenario 1, in a centralized FTTR deployment scenario, multiple FTTR systems may be deployed within the same subnet. Each FTTR system includes a master fiber unit (MFU) and a sub fiber unit (SFU). Within each FTTR system, the MFU is connected to the optical line termination (OLT) via optical fiber, and the MFU is also connected to the SFU via optical fiber. Access points include both MFUs and SFUs, which can be either ONTs or optical network units (ONUs). When these multiple FTTR systems are deployed and put into operation, the OLTs are logically configured to belong to the same subnet, and the configuration can be done manually or automatically. For example, FTTR system 1 and FTTR system 2 are deployed in the same subnet and managed by OLT1. FTTR system 1 includes MFU1, SFU1.1, and SFU1.2. MFU1 is connected to SFU1.1 and SFU1.2 via fiber optic cables and is also connected to OLT1. FTTR system 2 includes MFU2, SFU2.1, and SFU2.2. MFU2 is connected to SFU2.1 and SFU2.2 via fiber optic cables and is also connected to OLT1. Sites roam from SFU1.2 to SFU2.1. MFUs can also be called main gateways, and SFUs can be called sub-gateways. An MFU can also be a main FTTR unit; an SFU can also be a sub-FTTR unit. MFUs and SFUs share the same basic service set identifier (BSSID) and / or service set identifier (SSID).

[0059] Application Scenario 2: In a Fiber To The Home (FTTH) deployment scenario, multiple ONTs or ONUs may be deployed in the same area. Taking multiple ONTs as an example, each ONT is connected to the OLT via fiber optic cable. The access point includes the ONT, and when an ONT is deployed and brought online, it is logically configured as a subnet within the OLT. For example, ONT1 and ONT2 are deployed in the same area, both connected to OLT1, and the site roams from ONT1 to ONT2.

[0060] Application Scenario 3: In a hybrid deployment scenario of FTTH and FTTR systems, both FTTH and FTTR systems may be deployed simultaneously in the same area. When the ONT or ONU in the FTTH system and the FTTR system are deployed and put online, they are logically configured to belong to the same subnet on the OLT. This configuration can be done manually or automatically. For example, FTTR system 1, ONT1, and ONT2 may be deployed in the same area. FTTR system 1 includes MFU1, SFU1.1, and SFU1.2. MFU1 is connected to SFU1.1 and SFU1.2 via fiber optic cables and is also connected to OLT1. ONT1 and ONT2 are both connected to OLT1, and sites roam from SFU1.2 to ONT1.

[0061] The execution subject of the embodiments of this application is described below.

[0062] The PVB information synchronization method is executed by a PVB information synchronization device. Optionally, this device is a hardware device, such as an access point. Optionally, this device is a software device, such as a software program running on the access point.

[0063] The following describes the method flow for PVB information synchronization according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 provides the method flow for PVB information synchronization. In Figure 3, the first access point is an MFU in an FTTR system, and the other access points are SFUs, including a second access point.

[0064] Step 301: The second access point sends the PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point.

[0065] In this embodiment, the sites associated with the second access point include real associated sites and virtual associated sites. Real associated sites are those actually associated with the second access point, or sites connected to the second access point. Virtual associated sites refer to sites on the second access point that store key information such as association information and key information but are not actually associated. For example, in a network of access points 1 and 2, sites 1 and 2 are real associated sites on access point 1, while sites 3 and 4 are virtual associated sites on access point 1, but are real associated sites on access point 2. For real associated sites, the second access point can obtain PVB information, while for virtual associated sites, the second access point cannot obtain PVB information, or the obtained PVB information is inaccurate.

[0066] After obtaining the PVB information of the real associated site, the second access point sends the PVB information to the first access point.

[0067] Optionally, when the roaming function of the second access point is enabled, the sites associated with the second access point include real associated sites and virtual associated sites.

[0068] Step 302: The first access point receives the PVB information of the real associated site sent by the other access point.

[0069] Step 303: The first access point sends PVB summary information to the other access points, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system.

[0070] In this embodiment, after receiving PVB information from other access points, the first access point summarizes the PVB information from each access point to obtain the PVB information of the actual associated sites on all access points in the communication system, which is called the PVB summary information. Thus, the PVB summary information includes the PVB values ​​of each site using the communication system, or in other words, the PVB summary information indicates the PVB values ​​of each site using the communication system. For example, the communication system includes a first access point, access point 2, and access point 3. The actual associated sites on access point 1 include site 1 and site 2, and the actual associated sites on access point 2 include site 3 and site 4. The PVB summary information includes the PVB values ​​of site 1, site 2, site 3, and site 4.

[0071] It should be noted that the first access point can also provide communication system services and may also have site associations. When aggregating PVB information, the PVB information of the actual associated sites of the first access point can also be included in the aggregation.

[0072] It should also be noted that "all access points in the communication system" can be understood as all access points that need to perform PVB information synchronization. This may or may not be all access points in the communication system. For example, all access points that need to perform PVB information synchronization include access points that are configured with the same BSSID and have roaming enabled.

[0073] Step 304: The second access point receives the PVB summary information sent by the first access point, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system.

[0074] Step 305: The second access point broadcasts a beacon frame, wherein the beacon frame includes the PVB summary information.

[0075] In this embodiment, after receiving the PVB summary information, the second access point adds the PVB summary information to the Beacon frame to be sent and then broadcasts the Beacon frame. All stations within the coverage area of ​​the second access point can receive the Beacon frame, obtain their own PVB value from it, and determine whether there is data to receive. If not, they continue to sleep; otherwise, they end sleep and begin receiving data.

[0076] In one alternative approach, after the first access point obtains the PVB summary information, it also broadcasts the Beacon frame, which includes the PVB summary information, at the broadcast time of the Beacon frame.

[0077] The process shown in Figure 3 is for the interaction between the first access point and the second access point. To better understand the scheme, the FTTR system including MFU, SFU1 and SFU2 is used as an example for explanation, as shown in steps 401 to 405 of Figure 4.

[0078] Step 401: SFU1 and SFU2 send the PVB information of the real associated site to MFU.

[0079] Step 402: MFU receives PVB information of the real associated site sent by SFU1 and SFU2.

[0080] Step 403: MFU sends PVB summary information to SFU1 and SFU2, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of MFU, SFU1 and SFU2.

[0081] Step 404: SFU1 and SFU2 receive the PVB summary information sent by the MFU.

[0082] Step 405, SFU1 and SFU2 broadcast beacon frames, wherein the beacon frames include the PVB summary information.

[0083] The process shown in Figure 3 will be explained in detail below.

[0084] In step 301, there are several scenarios in which the second access point sends PVB information. The following are four possible scenarios.

[0085] In Method 1, the second access point is configured with a reporting cycle. According to this reporting cycle, the second access point periodically sends PVB information of the actual associated site to the first access point. The first access point receives this PVB information.

[0086] Optionally, the reporting period can be determined through negotiation between the first access point and the second access point, or it can be specified by the first access point.

[0087] Alternatively, the second access point can send PVB information to the first access point after detecting a change in the PVB information of the actual associated site. The first access point then receives this PVB information.

[0088] For example, the second access point records PVB information of real associated sites. When it detects that the PVB information of a real associated site is different from the recorded PVB information, it sends the changed PVB information of the real associated site, or the PVB information of all real associated sites, to the first access point.

[0089] Method three is a combination of methods one and two. That is, it both periodically reports PVB information and sends PVB information after changes occur.

[0090] Method 4: The first access point broadcasts a PVB information reporting notification. Upon receiving this notification, other access points send the PVB information of the real associated sites to the first access point. This PVB information of the real associated sites includes the PVB information of all real associated sites, or the PVB information of real associated sites that have changed.

[0091] In step 301, in order to ensure that the PVB summary information carried each time a Beacon frame is broadcast is up-to-date, the PVB information is reported according to the following process, see steps 501 to 506 in Figure 5.

[0092] Step 501: The second access point broadcasts the first Beacon frame.

[0093] In this embodiment, the second access point broadcasts a first Beacon frame, which includes PVB summary information currently received from the first access point.

[0094] Step 502: The second access point sends the PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point.

[0095] In this embodiment, after broadcasting the first Beacon frame, the second access point collects the PVB information of the real associated site and sends the PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point.

[0096] Step 503: The first access point receives the PVB information of the real associated site sent by the other access point.

[0097] Step 504: The first access point sends PVB summary information to the other access points, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system.

[0098] Step 505: The second access point receives the PVB summary information sent by the first access point, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system.

[0099] For a detailed description of steps 502 to 505, please refer to the flowchart shown in Figure 3, which will not be repeated here.

[0100] Step 506: The second access point broadcasts a second Beacon frame, wherein the second Beacon frame includes the PVB summary information, and the second Beacon frame is the first Beacon frame broadcast by the second access point after broadcasting the first Beacon frame.

[0101] In this embodiment, before the second access point broadcasts the next Beacon frame (which is the second Beacon frame) after the first Beacon frame, the second access point receives the latest PVB summary information. When generating the second Beacon frame, the second access point adds the PVB summary information to the second Beacon frame and then broadcasts the second Beacon frame.

[0102] Thus, using the process shown in Figure 5, the PVB information is synchronized within the transmission interval of the two beacon frames, enabling the second access point to carry the latest PVB summary information when broadcasting the Beacon frame, and to wake up the site in a timely manner when a site needs to be woken up.

[0103] It should be noted that here the second Beacon frame includes the PVB summary information. If the third Beacon frame were to include the PVB summary information, the third Beacon frame would be the Nth Beacon frame after the first Beacon frame, where N is greater than or equal to 2. This would be equivalent to a delay in sending the PVB summary information, delayed by N-1 Beacon frames.

[0104] In an alternative approach, in the process shown in Figure 3, the PVB information is reported to the first access point along with other content, and the summarized PVB information is sent to the second access point along with other content. Figure 6 provides an alternative approach; see steps 601 to 605 in Figure 6.

[0105] Step 601: The second access point sends a synchronization reporting message to the first access point. The synchronization reporting message includes the PVB information of the actual associated site on the second access point.

[0106] In this embodiment, the second access point can periodically send synchronization reporting messages to the first access point. These synchronization reporting messages include PVB information of the actual associated sites on the second access point.

[0107] Optionally, the synchronization reporting message may include some synchronization information that the second access point may report to the first access point. This synchronization information includes, but is not limited to, the multicast key update value and the multicast packet number (PN) reporting content.

[0108] Step 602: The first access point receives the synchronization report message.

[0109] Step 603: The first access point sends a network synchronization message to the other access points. The network synchronization message includes the PVB summary information, which is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system.

[0110] In this embodiment, after receiving synchronization reporting messages from other access points, the first access point obtains PVB information from the synchronization reporting messages. Then, it aggregates the PVB information from each access point to obtain the PVB information of the actual associated sites on all access points in the communication system, referred to as the PVB summary information. This PVB summary information includes the PVB values ​​of each site using the communication system. The PVB summary information is then added to the network synchronization message, which is then sent to the second access point.

[0111] Optionally, the network synchronization message may include some synchronization information that the first access point may send to the second access point. This synchronization information includes, but is not limited to, multicast key update values ​​and multicast PN content.

[0112] Optionally, the network synchronization message may also include a beacon frame transmission indication identifier.

[0113] Step 604: The second access point receives the network synchronization message.

[0114] In this embodiment, after receiving the network synchronization message, the second access point obtains the PVB summary information from it.

[0115] Step 605: The second access point broadcasts a beacon frame, wherein the beacon frame includes the PVB summary information.

[0116] In cases where the network synchronization message also includes a beacon frame transmission indication identifier, after receiving the network synchronization message, the second access point adds the PVB summary information carried in the network synchronization message to the Beacon frame, and then broadcasts the Beacon frame.

[0117] Optionally, when the network synchronization message is received, the Beacon frame may already be assembled. Therefore, the PVB summary information carried in the network synchronization message will be broadcast through the next Beacon frame.

[0118] In this embodiment of the application, when reporting PVB information, it can be incremental reporting or full reporting. Incremental reporting refers to reporting changed PVB information, while full reporting refers to reporting all PVB information.

[0119] In one alternative approach, the PVB information includes the PVB value of the real associated site and the AID of the real associated site. The PVB value indicates whether data needs to be received, and the AID indicates which real associated site it is.

[0120] Optionally, the content carried when sending PVB information is shown in Table 1.

[0121] Table 1

[0122] In Table 1, the identifier of the reported access point can be a media access control (MAC) address or an identifier assigned when the access point goes online.

[0123] The PVB values ​​in the PVB parameters correspond one-to-one with the PVB masks. The PVB mask is used to indicate the AID of the actual associated site on the access point. Specifically, for a dormant site, the PVB value is set to 1 only if the second access point has data to send to the dormant site; otherwise, the PVB value is set to 0. The PVB value for an active terminal is also set to 0.

[0124] For non-incremental reporting, the PVB value of the actual associated site of the second access point will be obtained. For incremental reporting, the PVB value of the second access point that has changed will be obtained.

[0125] When the first access point receives the PVB information sent by the second access point, it performs an AND or OR operation on the AID and PVB mask of all stations in the communication system to obtain the identifier of the real associated station on the second access point. Since the PVB value and the PVB mask correspond one-to-one, the PVB value of the real associated station on the second access point can be obtained.

[0126] In another implementation, PVB information can be sent in the form of a bitmap.

[0127] In another implementation, PVB information can be sent using the form of AID followed by a PVB value. For example, AID1 is followed by the PVB value 1 of AID1, and AID2 is followed by the PVB value of AID2.

[0128] Optionally, an access point may include at least one access point interface, and each access point interface may be associated with multiple sites. For example, the access point may include access point interfaces in the 2.4 GHz band and access point interfaces in the 5 GHz band. As another example, the access point may include high-frequency access point interfaces in the 5 GHz band and low-frequency access point interfaces in the 5 GHz band.

[0129] Because Beacon frames are broadcast through various access point interfaces within an access point, and these broadcast Beacon frames include information about each site on that access point interface, when an access point has multiple access point interfaces, the PVB information also carries the identifier of the access point interface to which the actual associated site belongs. Therefore, adding an item to Table 1 results in Table 2.

[0130] Table 2

[0131] After receiving the PVB information, the first access point aggregates the PVB values ​​of access point interfaces with the same identifier, obtaining the PVB summary information for each access point interface. Then, the first access point sends the PVB summary information and the corresponding access point interface identifier to other access points. Upon receiving this information, the other access points broadcast a Beacon frame on their access point interface, which includes the PVB summary information for that access point interface.

[0132] In another alternative approach, the PVB information includes an identifier of the actual associated site, a first identifier, and a second identifier. The first identifier indicates whether the actual associated site is in a dormant state, and the second identifier indicates whether the actual site is receiving data. Thus, when the first access point receives the PVB information, if the first identifier indicates the actual associated site is in a dormant state and the second identifier indicates data reception, the PVB value of the actual associated site is set to a first value in the PVB summary information. If the first identifier indicates the actual associated site is not in a dormant state (i.e., awake), and the second identifier indicates data reception, the PVB value is set to a second value in the PVB summary information. If the first identifier indicates the actual associated site is in a dormant state and the second identifier indicates no data reception, the PVB value of the actual associated site is set to a second value in the PVB summary information. If the first identifier indicates the actual associated site is not in a dormant state and the second identifier indicates no data reception, the PVB value of the actual associated site is set to a first value in the PVB summary information. The first and second values ​​are not the same; they can be set arbitrarily. For example, the first value can be 0 and the second value can be 1, or the first value can be 1 and the second value can be 0.

[0133] When the PVB value received by the site is the first value, it means that the current state needs to be changed; when the PVB value received by the site is the second value, it means that the current state should be maintained.

[0134] In one alternative approach, the PVB summary information includes the PVB values ​​of all sites in the FTTR system.

[0135] It should be noted that in Tables 1 and 2, if the PVB information contains the identifier of the reporting access point in the message encapsulation, the PVB information may not include the identifier of the reporting access point.

[0136] In one implementation, the content carried when sending PVB summary information is shown in Table 3.

[0137] Table 3

[0138] In Table 3, the PVB parameter implicitly indicates the station order; that is, the order of the PVB values ​​in the PVB parameter is actually arranged according to the station order. For example, if there are 20 stations in total, their PVB values ​​are arranged in a certain order. A station receiving a Beacon frame can obtain its own PVB value based on its position in the PVB parameter.

[0139] In another implementation, PVB summary information can be sent in the form of a bitmap.

[0140] In another implementation, PVB summary information can be expressed as AID followed by a PVB value. For example, AID1 is followed by the PVB value 1 of AID1, and AID2 is followed by the PVB value of AID2.

[0141] In another implementation, PVB summary information can be sent incrementally, meaning only the PVB values ​​of stations that have changed are sent. In this case, the access point needs to store the PVB values ​​of all stations in the communication system. Upon receiving the PVB summary information, it updates the stored PVB values ​​of all stations in the summary information and then broadcasts the result via Beacon frames.

[0142] It should be noted that for non-incremental reporting of PVB information and distribution of PVB summary information, PVB parameters can be distributed directly. For incremental reporting of PVB information and distribution of PVB summary information, the corresponding PVB change bits need to be added.

[0143] It should be noted that the number of sub-sections occupied by various contents in Tables 1 to 3 can be set according to actual needs, and this application embodiment does not limit it.

[0144] Figure 7 is a structural diagram of the PVB information synchronization device provided in an embodiment of this application. This device can be implemented as part or all of the device through software, hardware, or a combination of both. The device is applied to a first access point in a communication system, where all access points in the communication system have the same BSSID, and the first access point is connected to other access points in the communication system. The device provided in this embodiment can implement the process executed by the first access point in this embodiment. The device includes: an interaction module 710 and a determination module 720, wherein:

[0145] The interaction module 710 is used to receive PVB information of the real associated site sent by the other access points;

[0146] Send PVB summary information to the other access points, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system, and can be used to implement the interactive function of the first access point in Figure 3 and its implicit steps.

[0147] In an alternative embodiment, the interaction module 710 is used for:

[0148] Receive PVB information of the real associated site periodically sent by the other access points; and / or,

[0149] Receive PVB information sent by the other access points after the PVB information of the real associated site changes.

[0150] In an alternative embodiment, the interaction module 710 is used for:

[0151] Receive the PVB information of the real associated site sent by the other access points after broadcasting the first beacon frame;

[0152] The PVB summary information is sent earlier than the time when the other access points broadcast the second beacon frame. The second beacon frame is the first beacon frame broadcast after the other access points broadcast the first beacon frame, and the second beacon frame includes the PVB summary information.

[0153] In one alternative approach, the PVB information includes the PVB value of the actual associated site; or,

[0154] The PVB information includes a first identifier and a second identifier of the real associated site, wherein the first identifier indicates whether the real associated site is in a dormant state, and the second identifier indicates whether the real associated site is receiving data.

[0155] In one alternative approach, the determining module 720 is configured to, for each access point in the communication system, determine the PVB value of the real associated site on the access point based on the first identifier and the second identifier of the real associated site on the access point, before sending the PVB summary information to the other access points, wherein the PVB summary information includes the PVB values ​​of the real associated sites on all access points.

[0156] In one alternative approach, the PVB information may also include the identifier of the access point interface associated with the real associated site;

[0157] The interaction module 710 is used to send PVB summary information and the identifier of the access point interface to the other access points.

[0158] In one alternative embodiment, the interaction module 710 is configured to receive a synchronization reporting message sent by the other access point, wherein the synchronization reporting message includes the PVB information.

[0159] In one alternative approach, the interaction module 710 is configured to send a network synchronization message to the other access points, wherein the network synchronization message includes the PVB summary information.

[0160] In an alternative approach, the network synchronization message may also include a beacon frame transmission indication identifier.

[0161] In one alternative approach, the first access point is the master FTTR device in the FTTR system, and the other access points are slave FTTR devices in the FTTR system.

[0162] Figure 8 is a structural diagram of the PVB information synchronization device provided in an embodiment of this application. This device can be implemented as part or all of the device through software, hardware, or a combination of both. The device is applied to a second access point in a communication system where all access points have the same BSSID. The first access point in the communication system is connected to other access points, including the second access point. The device provided in this embodiment can implement the process executed by the second access point in this embodiment. The device includes: an interaction module 810 and a broadcast module 820, wherein:

[0163] The interaction module 810 is used to: send PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point;

[0164] Receive PVB summary information sent by the first access point, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system;

[0165] The broadcast module 820 is used to broadcast beacon frames, wherein the beacon frames include the PVB summary information, and can be used to implement the interactive function of the second access point in Figure 3 and the implicit steps contained therein.

[0166] In one alternative approach, the interaction module 810 is configured to: periodically send the PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point; and / or,

[0167] When the PVB information of the real associated site changes, the PVB information of the real associated site is sent to the first access point.

[0168] In an alternative embodiment, the interaction module 810 is further configured to broadcast a first beacon frame before sending the PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point;

[0169] The broadcast module 820 is used to broadcast a second beacon frame, wherein the second beacon frame includes the PVB summary information, and the second beacon frame is the first beacon frame broadcast after the second access point broadcasts the first beacon frame.

[0170] In one alternative approach, the PVB information includes the PVB value of the actual associated site; or,

[0171] The PVB information includes a first identifier and a second identifier of the real associated site, wherein the first identifier indicates whether the real associated site is in a dormant state, and the second identifier indicates whether the real associated site is receiving data.

[0172] In one alternative approach, the PVB information may also include the identifier of the access point interface associated with the real associated site;

[0173] The interaction module 810 is used to receive the PVB summary information and the identifier of the access point interface sent by the first access point.

[0174] The interaction module 810 is used to broadcast the PVB summary information on the access point interface indicated by the identifier of the access point interface.

[0175] In an optional manner, the interaction module 810 is configured to send a synchronization reporting message to the first access point, wherein the synchronization reporting message includes the PVB information.

[0176] In an optional manner, the interaction module 810 is configured to receive a network synchronization message sent by the first access point, wherein the network synchronization message includes the PVB summary information.

[0177] In an alternative approach, the network synchronization message may also include a beacon frame transmission indication identifier.

[0178] In one alternative approach, the first access point is the master FTTR device in the FTTR system, and the other access points are slave FTTR devices in the FTTR system.

[0179] The detailed process of PVB information synchronization shown in Figures 7 and 8 is described in the preceding embodiments and will not be repeated here. The PVB information synchronization device shown in Figure 7 is the first access point mentioned above, and the PVB information synchronization device shown in Figure 8 is the second access point mentioned above.

[0180] This application also provides a device 100. As shown in FIG. 9, device 100 includes: a bus 102, a processor 104, a memory 106, and a communication interface 108. The processor 104, the memory 106, and the communication interface 108 communicate with each other via the bus 102. Device 100 is the access point mentioned above. It should be understood that this application does not limit the number of processors and memories in device 100.

[0181] Bus 102 can be a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus or an Extended Industry Standard Architecture (EISA) bus, etc. Buses can be categorized as address buses, data buses, control buses, etc. For ease of illustration, only one line is used in Figure 9, but this does not imply that there is only one bus or one type of bus. Bus 104 can include pathways for transmitting information between various components of device 100 (e.g., memory 106, processor 104, communication interface 108).

[0182] The processor 104 may include any one or more processors such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a microprocessor (MP), or a digital signal processor (DSP).

[0183] The memory 106 may include volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM). The memory 106 may also include non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, hard disk drive (HDD), or solid state drive (SSD).

[0184] The memory 106 stores executable program code, and the processor 104 executes the executable program code to implement the method for PVB information synchronization. That is, the memory 106 stores program instructions for performing the method for PVB information synchronization.

[0185] The communication interface 108 uses an optical module to enable communication between the device 100 and other devices or communication networks.

[0186] This application also provides a computer program product, which includes program instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium. A processor of a first access point reads the program instructions from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the program instructions, causing the first access point to perform the process described above.

[0187] This application also provides a computer program product including program instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium. A processor of a second access point reads the program instructions from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the program instructions, causing the second access point to perform the process described above.

[0188] This application also provides a communication system, which includes a first access point and a second access point. The first access point is used to execute the process executed by the first access point mentioned above, and the second access point is used to execute the process executed by the second access point mentioned above.

[0189] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the method steps and units described in the embodiments disclosed in this application can be implemented in electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To clearly illustrate the interchangeability of hardware and software, the steps and components of each embodiment have been generally described in terms of functionality in the foregoing description. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0190] In the embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed system architecture, apparatus, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of modules is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple modules or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. In addition, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be indirect coupling or communication connection through some interfaces, devices, or modules, or may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms of connection.

[0191] The modules described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as modules may or may not be physical modules; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network modules. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of the embodiments of this application, depending on actual needs.

[0192] Furthermore, the modules in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing module, or each module can exist physically separately, or two or more modules can be integrated into one module. The integrated modules described above can be implemented in hardware or in software.

[0193] If the integrated module is implemented as a software functional module and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0194] In this application, the terms "first" and "second," etc., are used to distinguish identical or similar items that have substantially the same function and purpose. It should be understood that there is no logical or temporal dependency between "first" and "second," nor does it limit the quantity or execution order. It should also be understood that although the following description uses the terms "first" and "second," etc., to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by the terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the various examples, a first access point can be referred to as a second access point, and similarly, a second access point can be referred to as a first access point. Both a first access point and a second access point can be access points, and in some cases, they can be separate and distinct access points.

[0195] The above description is merely an exemplary embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of various equivalent modifications or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application, and such modifications or substitutions should all be covered within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for synchronizing local virtual bitmap (PVB) information, characterized in that, The method, applied to a first access point in a communication system, wherein all access points in the communication system share the same Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID), and the first access point is connected to other access points in the communication system, includes: Receive PVB information of the real associated site sent by the other access points; Send PVB summary information to the other access points, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The receipt of PVB information of the real associated site sent by the other access points includes: Receive PVB information of the real associated site periodically sent by the other access points; and / or, Receive PVB information sent by the other access points after the PVB information of the real associated site changes.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The receipt of PVB information of the real associated site sent by the other access points includes: Receive the PVB information of the real associated site sent by the other access points after broadcasting the first beacon frame; The PVB summary information is sent earlier than the time when the other access points broadcast the second beacon frame. The second beacon frame is the first beacon frame broadcast after the other access points broadcast the first beacon frame, and the second beacon frame includes the PVB summary information.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The PVB information includes the PVB value of the actual associated site; or, The PVB information includes a first identifier and a second identifier of the real associated site, wherein the first identifier indicates whether the real associated site is in a dormant state, and the second identifier indicates whether the real associated site is receiving data.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, Before sending the PVB summary information to the other access points, the process also includes: For each access point in the communication system, the PVB value of the real associated site on the access point is determined based on the first identifier and the second identifier of the real associated site on the access point, wherein the PVB summary information includes the PVB values ​​of the real associated sites on all access points in the communication system.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The PVB information also includes the identifier of the access point interface associated with the real associated site; Sending PVB summary information to the other access points includes: Send PVB summary information and the identifier of the access point interface to the other access points.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The receipt of PVB information of the real associated site sent by the other access points includes: Receive synchronization reporting messages sent by the other access points, wherein the synchronization reporting messages include the PVB information.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, Sending PVB summary information to the other access points includes: Send a network synchronization message to the other access points, wherein the network synchronization message includes the PVB summary information.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The network synchronization message also includes a beacon frame transmission indication identifier.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The first access point is the master FTTR device in the fiber-to-the-room FTTR system, and the other access points are slave FTTR devices in the FTTR system.

11. A method for synchronizing local virtual bitmap PVB information, characterized in that, A second access point is applied in a communication system, wherein the access points in the communication system have the same Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID), and the first access point in the communication system is connected to other access points, including the second access point. The method includes: Send the PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point; Receive PVB summary information sent by the first access point, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system; Broadcast beacon frames, wherein the beacon frames include the PVB summary information.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Sending the PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point includes: Periodically send the PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point; and / or, When the PVB information of the real associated site changes, the PVB information of the real associated site is sent to the first access point.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, Before sending the PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point, the process also includes: Broadcast the first beacon frame; The broadcast beacon frame includes: Broadcast a second beacon frame, wherein the second beacon frame includes the PVB summary information, and the second beacon frame is the first beacon frame broadcast by the second access point after broadcasting the first beacon frame.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, The PVB information includes the PVB value of the actual associated site; or, The PVB information includes a first identifier and a second identifier of the real associated site, wherein the first identifier indicates whether the real associated site is in a dormant state, and the second identifier indicates whether the real associated site is receiving data.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that, The PVB information also includes the identifier of the access point interface associated with the real associated site; The receipt of the PVB summary information sent by the first access point includes: Receive the PVB summary information and the identifier of the access point interface sent by the first access point; The broadcast of the PVB summary information includes: The PVB summary information is broadcast on the access point interface indicated by the identifier of the access point interface.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that, Sending the PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point includes: A synchronization reporting message is sent to the first access point, wherein the synchronization reporting message includes the PVB information.

17. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in that, The receipt of the PVB summary information sent by the first access point includes: Receive a network synchronization message sent by the first access point, wherein the network synchronization message includes the PVB summary information.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The network synchronization message also includes a beacon frame transmission indication identifier.

19. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 18, characterized in that, The first access point is the master FTTR device in the fiber-to-the-room FTTR system, and the other access points are slave FTTR devices in the FTTR system.

20. A device for synchronizing local virtual bitmap (PVB) information, characterized in that, An apparatus for use at a first access point in a communication system, wherein all access points in the communication system share the same Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID), and the first access point is connected to other access points in the communication system, the apparatus comprising: The interaction module is used to: receive PVB information of the real associated sites sent by the other access points; Send PVB summary information to the other access points, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system.

21. A device for synchronizing local virtual bitmap (PVB) information, characterized in that, A second access point applied in a communication system, wherein the access points in the communication system have the same Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID), and the first access point in the communication system is connected to other access points, including the second access point, the device comprising: The interaction module is used to send PVB information of the real associated site to the first access point; Receive PVB summary information sent by the first access point, wherein the PVB summary information is obtained by summarizing the PVB information of the access points in the communication system; Broadcast beacon frames, wherein the beacon frames include the PVB summary information.

22. A communication system, characterized in that, The communication system includes a first access point and a second access point; The first access point is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10; The second access point is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 11 to 19.

23. An access point, characterized in that, The access point includes a communication interface, a processor, and a memory; The communication interface is used to communicate with other devices; The processor is configured to execute program instructions in the memory to perform the processing functions described in any one of claims 1 to 10 or 11 to 19.

24. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, Includes program instructions, which, when executed by the access point, perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 10 or any one of claims 11 to 19.

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