System and apparatus for connecting user devices across different networks and a method in association thereto

Abstract

System (100), apparatus (102), device (104) and a method (300) for connecting user devices across different networks are disclosed. The method (300) includes obtaining, by a current network access point, data associated with one or more network access points; evaluating the data to determine a target network access point from the one or more network access points; generating a pre-authentication request upon determination of the target network access point; and transmitting the pre-authentication request to the target network access point for establishing a connection with a user device.

Description

202405847 1SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR CONNECTING USER DEVICES ACROSS DIFFERENT NETWORKS AND A METHOD IN ASSOCIATION THERETOField Of Invention

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to one or both of a system and an apparatus for connecting user devices across different networks and in association with, for example, a network access point and / or a User Equipment (UE), usable for communication. The present disclosure further relates a method which can be associated with the system and / or the apparatus.Background of Invention

[0002] Generally, wireless networks provide network connectivity through various interfaces to mobile communication devices or User Equipment (UE), for example smart phones. Current techniques may not address the issue of access point (AP) selection for vehicular mobility as the current AP selection algorithms are not optimized for quick moving stations (STAs), which can result in sub-optimal performance.

[0003] The present disclosure contemplates that it would be helpful to address or at least mitigate one or more issues in relation to conventional techniques for connecting user devices across different networks.Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for connecting user devices across different networks, the method comprising obtaining, by a current network access point, data associated with one or more network access points; evaluating the data to determine a target network access point from the one or more network access points; generating a pre-authentication request upon determination of the target network access point; and transmitting the202405847 2pre-authentication request to the target network access point for establishing a connection with a user device.

[0005] Advantageously, the method as described herein can provide a fast access point (AP) or network access point switch by reducing the authentication time between the new AP and the station (STA) or user device. The method may also provide mobility support for fast moving stations (STAs).

[0006] In an embodiment, the method further includes communicating the data associated with one or more network access points to one or more user devices.

[0007] In an embodiment, communicating the data to one or more user devices comprises communicating the data to one or more user devices within a network of the current network access point.

[0008] In an embodiment, the method further includes receiving the preauthentication request; and configuring the target access point to establish a connection with the user device in response to the pre-authentication request.

[0009] In an embodiment, data associated with one or more network access points comprises at least one of: a medium access control (MAC) address, a basic service set identity (BSSID) and / or an identification of each of the one or more network access points.

[0010] In an embodiment, evaluating the data to determine a target network access point comprises evaluating the data based on a Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) of the one or more network access points.

[0011] In an embodiment, evaluating the data to determine a target network access point further comprises obtaining at least one beacon frame from the one or more network access points; comparing the at least one beacon frame with the data; and202405847 3rating the one or more network access points based on the comparison to determine the target network access point.

[0012] In an embodiment, the method further includes communicating location information of the user device to the current network access point; determining the target network access point based on the user device location information and historical data related to an association between the user device and the one or more network access points; and synchronizing with the target network access point for transmission of the pre-authentication request.

[0013] In an embodiment, obtaining information associated with the user device; and communicating the information to the target network access point.

[0014] In an embodiment, the pre-authentication request comprises at least one of: a MAC address of the target network access point and / or a MAC address of the current network access point.

[0015] In an embodiment, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to the first aspect.

[0016] In an embodiment, there is provided a computer readable storage medium having data stored therein representing software executable by a computer, the software including instructions, when executed by the computer, to carry out the method according to the first aspect.

[0017] In an embodiment, there is provided an apparatus for connecting user devices across different networks comprising: a first module configured to receive at least one input signal associated with data related to one or more network access points; a second module configured to at least one of process and facilitate the method according to the first aspect to generate at least one output signal; and a third202405847 4module configured to communicate at least one output signal, wherein the output signal corresponds to a control signal for connecting user devices across different networks.

[0018] In an embodiment, the apparatus may correspond to a User Equipment (UE) communicable with a device corresponding to a network access point, and wherein the network access point is configured to communicate the at least one input signal to the UE.

[0019] In an embodiment, there is provided a system comprising: at least one apparatus(es); and at least one device(s), wherein the apparatus(es) and the device(s) are capable of being coupled via at least one of wired coupling and wireless coupling.

[0020] Advantageously, the system as disclosed herein can provide a seamless and faster transition to an AP (or network access point) in a different Distribution System (DS).Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] Embodiments of the disclosure are described hereinafter with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0022] Fig. 1A shows a schematic diagram illustrating a system for connecting user devices across different networks which can include at least one apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0023] Fig. 1B to 1D show example scenarios in association with the system of Fig.1A, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0024] Fig. 2 shows a schematic diagram illustrating the device of Fig. 1A in further detail, according to an embodiment of the invention.202405847 5

[0025] Fig. 3 shows a method in association with the system of Fig. 1A, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0026] Fig. 4 shows a schematic diagram illustrating an example scenario in association with the method of Fig. 3, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0027] Fig. 5A to Fig. 5D show schematic diagrams illustrating different examples of the flow of information in association with the method of Fig. 3, according to an embodiment of the invention.Detailed Description

[0028] The detailed description set forth below, with reference to annexed drawings, is intended as a description of various configurations and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the concepts described herein may be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the various concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts may be practiced without these specific details. In particular, although terminology from 3GPP 5G NR may be used in this disclosure to exemplify embodiments herein, this should not be seen as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0029] In addition, some of the embodiments contemplated herein will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Other embodiments, however, are contained within the scope of the subject matter disclosed herein, the disclosed subject matter should not be construed as limited to only the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example to convey the scope of the subject matter to those skilled in the art.

[0030] Generally, all terms used herein are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the relevant technical field, unless a different meaning is clearly given and / or is implied from the context in which it is used. All references to a / an / the202405847 6element, apparatus, component, means, step, etc. are to be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of the element, apparatus, component, means, step, etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise. The steps of any methods disclosed herein do not have to be performed in the exact order disclosed, unless a step is explicitly described as following or preceding another step and / or where it is implicit that a step must follow or precede another step. Any feature of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be applied to any other embodiment, wherever appropriate. Likewise, any advantage of any of the embodiments may apply to any other embodiments, and vice versa. Other objectives, features and advantages of the enclosed embodiments will be apparent from the following description.

[0031] In some embodiments, the non-limiting term User Equipment (UE) or wireless device or user device may be used and may refer to any type of wireless device communicating with a network node and / or with another UE in a cellular or mobile communication system. Examples of UE are target device, device-to-device (D2D) UE, machine type UE or UE capable of machine to machine (M2M) communication, PDA, PAD, Tablet, mobile terminals, smart phone, laptop embedded equipped (LEE), laptop mounted equipment (LME), USB dongles, UE category Ml, UE category M2, ProSe UE, V2V UE, V2X UE, etc.

[0032] In some embodiments, a more general term “network node” may be used and may correspond to any type of radio network node or any network node, which communicates with a User Equipment (directly or via another node) and / or with another network node. Examples of network nodes are NodeB, MeNB, ENB, a network node belonging to MCG or SCG, base station (BS), multi-standard radio (MSR) radio node such as MSR BS, eNodeB, gNodeB, network controller, radio network controller (RNC), base station controller (BSC), relay, donor node controlling relay, base transceiver station (BTS), access point (AP), transmission points, transmission nodes, RRU, RRH, nodes in distributed antenna system (DAS), core network node (e.g. Mobile Switching Center (MSC), Mobility Management Entity (MME), etc), Operations & Maintenance (O& M), Operations Support System (OSS), Self Optimized Network (SON), positioning node (e.g. Evolved- Serving Mobile202405847 7Location Centre (E-SMLC)), Minimization of Drive Tests (MDT), test equipment (physical node or software), etc.

[0033] Additionally, terminologies such as base station / gNodeB and UE should be considered non-limiting and do in particular not imply a certain hierarchical relation between the two; in general, “gNodeB” could be considered as device 1 and “UE” could be considered as device 2 and these two devices communicate with each other over some radio channel. And in the following the transmitter or receiver could be either gNodeB (gNB), or UE.

[0034] Popular wireless network technologies may include various types of wireless local area networks (WLANs). A WLAN may be used to interconnect nearby devices together, employing widely used networking protocols. The various aspects described herein may apply to any communication standard, such as a wireless protocol.

[0035] In some aspects, wireless signals may be transmitted according to an 802.11 protocol using orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM), direct-sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) communications, a combination of OFDM and DSSS communications, or other schemes. Implementations of the 802.11 protocol may be used for sensors, metering, and smart grid networks. Advantageously, aspects of certain devices implementing the 802.11 protocol may consume less power than devices implementing other wireless protocols, and / or may be used to transmit wireless signals across a relatively long range, for example about one kilometer or longer.

[0036] In some implementations, a WLAN includes various devices which are the components that access the wireless network. For example, there may be two types of devices: access points (“APs”) and clients (also referred to as stations, or “STAs”). In general, an AP may serve as a hub or base station for the WLAN and a STA serves as a user of the WLAN. For example, a STA may be a laptop computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile phone, etc. In an example, a STA202405847 8connects to an AP via a WiFi (e.g., IEEE 802.11 protocol) compliant wireless link to obtain general connectivity to the Internet or to other wide area networks. In some implementations a STA may also be used as an AP.

[0037] An access point (“AP”) may also comprise, be implemented as, or known as a NodeB, Radio Network Controller (“RNC”), eNodeB, Base Station Controller (“BSC”), Base Transceiver Station (“BTS”), Base Station (“BS”), Transceiver Function (“TF”), Radio Router, Radio Transceiver, or some other terminology.

[0038] A station “STA” may also comprise, be implemented as, or known as an access terminal (“AT”), a subscriber station, a subscriber unit, a mobile station, a remote station, a remote terminal, a user terminal, a user agent, a user device, user equipment, or some other terminology. In some implementations an access terminal may comprise a cellular telephone, a cordless telephone, a Session Initiation Protocol (“SIP”) phone, a wireless local loop (“WLL”) station, a personal digital assistant (“PDA”), a handheld device having wireless connection capability, or some other suitable processing device connected to a wireless modem. Accordingly, one or more aspects taught herein may be incorporated into a phone (e.g., a cellular phone or smartphone), a computer (e.g., a laptop), a portable communication device, a headset, a portable computing device (e.g., a personal data assistant), an entertainment device (e.g., a music or video device, or a satellite radio), a gaming device or system, a global positioning system device, or any other suitable device that is configured to communicate via a wireless medium.

[0039] As discussed above, certain devices described herein may implement the 802.11 standard, for example. Such devices, whether used as a STA or AP or other device, may be used for smart metering or in a smart grid network. Such devices may provide sensor applications or be used in home automation. The devices may instead or in addition be used in a healthcare context, for example for personal healthcare. They may also be used for in automobiles and surveillance, to enable extended-range Internet connectivity (e.g. for use with hotspots), or to implement machine-to-machine communications.202405847 9

[0040] Code for carrying out operations for embodiments may be any number of lines and may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages including an object- oriented programming language such as Python, Ruby, Java, Smalltalk, C++, or the like, and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language, or the like, and / or machine languages such as assembly languages. The code may execute entirely on the user’s computer, partly on the user’s computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user’s computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user’s computer through any type of network, including a local area network (“LAN”), wireless LAN (“WLAN”), or a wide area network (“WAN”), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider (“ISP”)).

[0041] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of programming, software modules, user selections, network transactions, database queries, database structures, hardware modules, hardware circuits, hardware chips, etc., to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that embodiments may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of an embodiment. Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, but mean “one or more but not all embodiments” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to,” unless expressly specified otherwise. An enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items202405847 10are mutually exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,” “an, and “the” also refer to “one or more” unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0042] The present disclosure contemplates that current AP selection algorithms in WiFi implementations are not optimized for vehicular mobility, leading to suboptimal performance. The present disclosure thus contemplates the possibility of performing quick AP selection for fast moving STAs (stations) so as to achieve uninterrupted or seamless connectivity.

[0043] In the above manner, a method can be provided to enable quick AP selection with pre-configuration of the AP by pre-authenticating the STA (station).

[0044] The foregoing will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig.5 hereinafter.

[0045] Referring to Fig. 1A, a schematic diagram illustrating a system 100 for connecting user devices across different networks is shown, according to an embodiment of the invention. The system 100 can, for example, be suitable for facilitating energy and improve power efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0046] As shown, the system 100 can include one or more apparatuses 102, at least one device 104 and, optionally, a communication network 106, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0047] The apparatus(es) 102 can be coupled to the device(s) 104. Specifically, the apparatus(es) 102 can, for example, be coupled to the device(s) 104 via the communication network 106, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0048] In one embodiment, the apparatus(es) 102 can be coupled to the communication network 106 and the device(s) 104 can be coupled to the communication network 106. Coupling can be by manner of one or both of wired202405847 11coupling and wireless coupling. The apparatus(es) 102 can, in general, be configured to communicate with the device(s) 104 via the communication network 106, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0049] The apparatus(es) 102 can, for example, be associated with or correspond to or include one or more user equipment (UE) which can carry one or more computers, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. For example, an apparatus 102 can correspond to a UE or a user device or a station STA carrying at least one computer (e.g. an electronic device or module having computing capabilities such as an electronic mobile device which can be carried into a vehicle or an electronic module which can be installed in a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention) which can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in association with the UE (or STA), in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0050] In an embodiment, the apparatus(es) 102 can, for example, be configured to generate one or more input signals and perform at least one processing task based on the input signal(s) in a manner to generate one or more output signals. The input signal(s) can optionally be communicated from the device(s) 104 and received by the apparatus(es) 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The apparatus(es) 102 can, for example, perform one or more processing tasks in association with dynamic / adaptive / gradual control on the input signal(s) in a manner so as to generate at least one output signal. This will be discussed later in further detail in the context of an example scenario, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0051] The device(s) 104 can, for example, be associated with / correspond to at least one network access point, where the at least one network access point can be a Next Generation Node B (gNB). Moreover, the device(s) 104 can, for example, be configured to carry / be associated with / include one or more computers (e.g., an electronic device / module having computing capabilities) which can, for example, be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in association with the network access point.202405847 12

[0052] The input signal can be associated with data related to one or more network access points. As a possible option, the output signal(s) can, for example, be communicated from the device(s) 104, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The output signal may correspond to a control signal for connecting user devices across different networks. The apparatus(es) 102 and device(s) 104 will be discussed later in further detail with reference to Fig. 2, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0053] The communication network 106 can, for example, correspond to an Internet communication network, a cellular-based communication network, a wired-based communication network, a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) based communication network, a wireless-based communication network, or any combination thereof. Communication (e.g., between the apparatuses 102 and / or between the apparatus(es) 102 and the device(s) 104) via the communication network 106 can be by manner of one or both of wired communication and wireless communication.

[0054] The device(s) 104 can, for example, be configured to generate (and communicate) the output signal(s) to the apparatus(es) 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In an alternate embodiment, the apparatus(es) 102 may be configured to generate (and communicate) the output signal(s) to other apparatus(es) 102. Accordingly, the device(s) 104 and / or apparatus(es) 102 can generate a control signal for connecting user devices across different networks. This will be discussed, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, in the context of example scenarios with reference to Fig. 1 B to Fig. 1 D, hereinafter.

[0055] Fig. 1B to 1D show example scenarios in association with the system of Fig.1A, according to an embodiment of the invention. Specifically, Fig. 1B shows a schematic diagram illustrating communication and connection between an access point (AP) or a network access point and a station (STA) or user device. In IEEE 802.11, authentication can be the first step in network attachment. The authentication may require a mobile device or user device (or STA) to establish its identity with an AP or broadband wireless router. There may be no data encryption202405847 13or security at this stage and there may be two link-level types of authentication, i.e. an open system and a shared key system, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0056] In an embodiment, mobile devices (or user devices or STAs) can associate or register with an AP or router to gain full access to the network after authentication is complete. An association may allow the AP or router to record each mobile device (or user device or STA) so that frames are properly delivered. In addition, association may only occur on wireless infrastructure networks and not in peer-peer mode and a station (or user device) can only associate with one AP or one router at a time.

[0057] In a specific embodiment, association process may occur when a mobile device (or user device or STA) authenticates to an AP or a router and then sends an Association Request. The AP or router processes the Association Request and different AP vendors or router vendors may have different implementations for deciding if a client request should be allowed. When an AP or router grants association with the STA (or mobile device or user device), it may respond with a status code of 0 (successful) together with an Association Identification (AID). The AID can be used to identify the STA (or mobile device or user device) for delivery of buffered frames when power-saving is enabled. In the situation of failed Association Requests, a status code may only be included and the procedure ends. After the Association Request is processed, the AP or router forwards frames to or from the STA (or mobile device or user device), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0058] Fig. 1C shows an example scenario of an Extended Service Set Identifier (ESSID) including Basic Service Set (BSS), Extended Service Set (ESS), Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID) and Distribution System (DS). These may be fundamental concepts that describe how wireless networks are structured and how devices communicate, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. In an implementation, BSS can be a network topology where wireless devices202405847 14communicate with each other either through an AP (or network access point) in infrastructure mode or directly in ad-hoc mode. ESS can be a network topology that includes multiple interconnected BSSs, all linked through a DS. BSSID can be the unique identifier for a BSS, for example the medium access control (MAC) address of the AP’s (or network access point) wireless interface. ESSID or Service Set Identifier (SSID), may be the network name that is common across all BSSs within an ESS, allowing seamless roaming between them.

[0059] Fig. 1 D shows an example scenario of a STA (or mobile device or user device) that is in motion and moving between two different distribution systems. As shown in the Figure, the STA (or mobile device or user device) may be moving from one DS (on the left) to another DS (on the right). In this situation, the STA (or mobile device or user device) may need to be authenticated by the AP (or network access point) in the new DS (on the right) which can introduce delay in service before allowing the STA (or mobile device or user device) to start data communication. In an example situation of a fast-moving STA (or mobile device or user device), the authentication or association process can lead to disruption of service, temporary loss of connectivity, dropped calls or interrupted streaming, thereby impacting the user experience of the STA (or mobile device or user device).

[0060] The above-described aspect(s) of the system 100 of the present invention can also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of a below described apparatus 102 of the present invention. Likewise, all below described aspect(s) of the apparatus 102 of the invention can also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of above-described system 100 of the invention.

[0061] The aforementioned apparatus(es) 102 or Stations (STAs) or user devices will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 2 hereinafter.

[0062] Referring to Fig. 2, a schematic diagram illustrating an apparatus 102 is shown in further detail in the context of an example implementation 200, according to an embodiment of the invention.202405847 15

[0063] In the example implementation 200, the apparatus 102 can correspond to an electronic module 200a. The electronic module 200a can, in one example, correspond to a mobile device which can, for example, be carried into the vehicle by a user, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In another example, the electronic module 200a can correspond to an electronic device which can be installed / mounted in the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In this regard, the electronic module 200a can be considered to be carried by the vehicle (e.g., either carried into the vehicle by a user or installed / mounted in the vehicle).

[0064] It is contemplated that the electronic module 200a can be capable of performing one or more processing tasks in association with adaptive / dynamic / gradual control related processing, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0065] The electronic module 200a can, for example, include a casing 200b. Moreover, the electronic module 200a can, for example, carry any one of a first module 202, a second module 204, a third module 206, or any combination thereof.

[0066] In one embodiment, the electronic module 200a can carry a first module 202, a second module 204 and / or a third module 206. In a specific example, the electronic module 200a can carry a first module 202, a second module 204 and a third module 206, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0067] In this regard, it is appreciable that, in one embodiment, the casing 200b can be shaped and dimensioned to carry any one of the first module 202, the second module 204 and the third module 206, or any combination thereof.

[0068] The first module 202 can be coupled to one or both of the second module 204 and the third module 206. The second module 204 can be coupled to one or both of the first module 202 and the third module 206. The third module 206 can be coupled to one or both of the first module 202 and the second module 204. In one example, the first module 202 can be coupled to the second module 204 and the second202405847 16module 204 can be coupled to the third module 206, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Coupling between the first module 202, the second module 204 and / or the third module 206 can, for example, be by manner of one or both of wired coupling and wireless coupling. Each of the first module 202, the second module 204 and the third module 206 can correspond to one or both of a hardware-based module and a software-based module, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0069] In one example, the first module 202 can correspond to a hardware-based receiver which can be configured to generate or receive one or more input signals. The input signal(s) can, for example, be generated within the apparatus 102 or communicated from the device(s) 104 (or access point e.g., a gNB), in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0070] The second module 204 can, for example, correspond to a hardware-based processor which can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks (e.g., in a manner so as to generate one or more output signals) as will be discussed later in further detail with reference to Fig. 3, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0071] The third module 206 can correspond to a hardware-based transmitter which can be configured to communicate one or more output signals from the electronic module 200a. The output signal(s) can, for example, include one or more instructions / commands / control signals in association with the aforementioned dynamic / adaptive / gradual control configuration / determination strategy so as to facilitate efficiency (e.g., power / energy efficiency and / or communication efficiency), in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. For example, the output signal(s) can be a control signal(s) for connecting user devices across different networks.

[0072] The present disclosure contemplates the possibility that the first and second modules 202, 204 can be an integrated software-hardware based module, for example, an electronic part which can carry a software program or algorithm in association with receiving and processing functions or an electronic module202405847 17programmed to perform the functions of receiving and processing. The present disclosure further contemplates the possibility that the first and third modules 202, 206 can be an integrated software-hardware based module, for example an electronic part which can carry a software program or algorithm in association with receiving and transmitting functions or an electronic module programmed to perform the functions of receiving and transmitting. The present disclosure yet further contemplates the possibility that the first and third modules 202, 206 can be an integrated hardware module, for example a hardware-based transceiver, capable of performing the functions of receiving and transmitting.

[0073] The apparatus 102 (or user device or UE or stations STAs) can, for example, be further configured to process the input signal(s), as will be discussed later in further detail with reference to Fig. 3, in a manner so as to generate one or more output signals in a manner so as to facilitate efficiency, for example power efficiency or energy efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one specific example, the output signal(s) can include one or more control signals to facilitate some form of dynamic / adaptive / gradual control configuration / determination strategy so as to facilitate efficiency, for example power efficiency or energy efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. For example, the output signal(s) can be a control signal(s) for connecting user devices across different networks.

[0074] The above-described aspect(s) of the apparatus 102 of the present invention can also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of a below described processing / communication method of the present invention. Likewise, all below described aspect(s) of the method of the invention can also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of above described apparatus 102 of the invention. It is to be appreciated that these remarks apply analogously to the earlier discussed system 100 of the present disclosure.202405847 18

[0075] Referring to Fig. 3, a method 300 (or a communication method) for connecting user devices across different networks in association with the system 100 is shown, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0076] The method 300 can, for example, be suitable for facilitating energy efficiency, network optimization and power saving in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0077] The method 300 can include any one of an input step 302, a processing step 304 and an output step 306, or any combination thereof, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0078] In an embodiment, the processing method 300 can include the input step 302. In another embodiment, the processing method 300 can include the input step 302 and the processing step 304. In another embodiment, the processing method 300 can include the input step 302, the processing step 304 and the output step 306. In yet another embodiment, the processing method 300 can include the processing step 304 and one or both of the input step 302 and the output step 306. In yet a further embodiment, the processing method 300 can include the input step 302, the processing step 304 and the output step 306. In yet a further additional embodiment, the processing method 300 can include the processing step 304. In yet another further additional embodiment, the processing method 300 can include any one of or any combination of the input step 302, the processing step 304 and the output step 306 (i.e., the input step 302, the processing step 304 and / or the output step 306).

[0079] With regard to the input step 302, one or more input signal(s) can be received. For example, the input signal(s) may be generated from within the apparatus 102 or generated and communicated from a second or different apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In another example embodiment, the input signal(s) can be generated and communicated from the device 104 and can be received by the apparatus 102.202405847 19

[0080] The input step 302 can include receiving at least one input signal associated with data related to one or more network access points (or Access Points APs). In an embodiment, the input signal(s) may be generated by the apparatus 102 or the device 104 and / or a second apparatus and transmitted to the apparatus 102 to advance to the processing step 304.

[0081] With regard to the processing step 304, at least a processing task can be performed in association with the received input signal(s) in a manner so as to generate one or more output signals, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0082] The processing step 304 may include at least one of: obtaining, by a current network access point, data associated with one or more network access points; evaluating the data to determine a target network access point from the one or more network access points; generating a pre-authentication request upon determination of the target network access point; and transmitting the pre-authentication request to the target network access point for establishing a connection with a user device. Data associated with one or more network access points may include at least one of: a medium access control (MAC) address, a basic service set identity (BSSID) and / or an identification of each of the one or more network access points. The preauthentication request may include at least one of: a MAC address of the target network access point and / or a MAC address of the current network access point.

[0083] The processing step 304 may also include communicating the data associated with one or more network access points to one or more user devices; communicating the data to one or more user devices within a network of the current network access point; receiving the pre-authentication request; and configuring the target access point to establish a connection with the user device in response to the pre-authentication request.

[0084] The processing step 304 may further include evaluating the data based on a Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) of the one or more network access points;202405847 20obtaining at least one beacon frame from the one or more network access points; comparing the at least one beacon frame with the data; and rating the one or more network access points based on the comparison to determine the target network access point.

[0085] The processing step 304 may yet further include communicating location information of the user device to the current network access point; determining the target network access point based on the user device location information and historical data related to an association between the user device and the one or more network access points; synchronizing with the target network access point for transmission of the pre-authentication request; obtaining information associated with the user device; and communicating the information to the target network access point.

[0086] With regards to the output step 306, the output signal(s) can, for example, be communicated, as an option, communicated from the apparatus 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In a more specific example, the output signal(s) can optionally be communicated from the apparatus 102 to one or more different apparatus(es), in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0087] The present disclosure further contemplates a computer program (not shown) which can include instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer (not shown), cause the computer to carry out the input step 302, the processing step 304 and / or the output step 306 as discussed with reference to the method 300. For example, the computer program can include instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the input step 302 and / or the processing step 304, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0088] The present disclosure yet further contemplates a computer readable storage medium (not shown) having data stored therein representing software executable by a computer (not shown), the software including instructions, when executed by the computer, to carry out the input step 302, the processing step 304 and / or the output202405847 21step 306 as discussed with reference to the method 300. For example, the computer readable storage medium can have data stored therein representing software executable by a computer, the software including instructions, when executed by the computer, cause the computer to carry out the input step 302 and / or the processing step 304, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0089] Further in view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates an apparatus 102 for connecting user devices across different networks which can include a first module 202, a second module 204 and / or a third module 206.

[0090] The first module 202 can be configured to receive one or more input signals. The input signal(s) can, for example, be associated with data related to one or more network access points.

[0091] The second module 204 can be configured to process and / or facilitate processing of the input signal(s) according to the method 300 as discussed earlier to generate one or more output signals.

[0092] The third module 206 can be configured to communicate one or more output signals. The output signal(s) can, for example, correspond to one or more control signals for connecting devices across different networks.

[0093] In one embodiment, the apparatus 102 can correspond to a User Equipment (UE) or a station (STA) which can communicate with a device 104 corresponding to a network access point (or access point AP). The access point AP (or network access point) can, for example, correspond to a Next generation Node B (gNB) which can be configured to communicate one or more signals (e.g., output signal(s)) to the UE (or user device or STA).

[0094] Yet further in view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates a system 100 which can include one or more apparatuses 102 and one or more devices 104. The apparatus(es) 102 and the202405847 22device(s) 104 can, for example, be capable of being coupled via wired coupling and / or wireless coupling.

[0095] It should be appreciated that the embodiments described above can be combined in any manner as appropriate (e.g., one or more embodiments as discussed in the “Detailed Description” section can be combined with one or more embodiments as described in the “Summary of the Invention” section).

[0096] It should be further appreciated by the person skilled in the art that variations and combinations of embodiments described above, not being alternatives or substitutes, may be combined to form yet further embodiments.

[0097] In one example, the possibility of the output signal(s) being communicated from the apparatus(es) 102 was discussed. It is appreciable that the output signal(s) need not necessarily be communicated from the apparatus(es) 102. Specifically, the possibility that the output signal(s) need not necessarily be communicated outside of the apparatus(es) 102 is contemplated, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. More specifically, the output signal(s) can, for example, correspond to internal command(s) / instruction(s) (e.g., communicated only within an apparatus 102 for adaptively controlling operational configuration of the apparatus 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0098] The present disclosure contemplates a method that can enable quick AP selection with pre-configuration of the AP by pre-authenticating the STA (or user device). In an embodiment, the current serving AP (or current network access point) can provide the information of the neighboring APs to the STA (or user device). The neighboring information may include the MAC address or other identification IDs by which the UE (or STA or user device) may identify the neighboring AP based on the beacon it receives from the neighboring APs. The serving AP (or network access point) may broadcast this information to all the STAs (or user devices) connected to it within its BSS. The STA (or user device) in the current BSS may receive beacons from the neighboring cell and there can be a possibility that the STA (or user device) may receive more than one beacon differentiated by the MAC address or BSSID in202405847 23the beacon. In such a situation, the STA (or user device) may rate the potential AP with which it may connect based on the rating the station gives the AP. Alternatively, the STA (or user device) may provide its location coordinates to the AP, where the AP may use historical data to determine which would be the AP the STA (or user device) may likely associate with next. The current AP (or current network access point) may then coordinate with the potential target AP (or target network access point) and pre-authenticate the STA (or user device) so that the STA (or user device) may not have a delay time when it connects to the next AP (or target network access point).

[0099] The present disclosure further contemplates that the pre-authentication may include the current AP (or current network access point) whitelisting the MAC address of the STA (or user device) to the next AP (or target network access point). Alternatively, the serving AP may provide a list of all the MAC addresses of the neighboring APs. In this scenario, the STA (or user device) may receive a beacon from any of the APs for which the STA (or user device) already has the MAC address of and the STA (or user device) may send an “Early Authentication Request” Message to the AP (or target network access point). The Early Authentication Request Format may include additional fields such as but not limited to the MAC Address of the neighboring AP and / or the MAC Address of the current serving AP. The remaining format of the early authentication request may follow the example format as shown in Fig. 4, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Specifically, Fig. 4 shows an example of an authentication request frame which can include a MAC header and a frame body. Each of the MAC header and frame body may further include categorized fields and data with their corresponding byte number.

[0100] Fig. 5A to Fig. 5D show schematic diagrams illustrating the flow of information in association with the method of Fig. 3, according to various embodiments of the invention.

[0101] Fig. 5A shows a flowchart of an example of an Access Point (AP) behavior, according to an embodiment of the present invention. At a first step, the202405847 24AP (or network access point) obtains MAC address and other forms of identification of other neighboring APs. At a second step, the AP may broadcast the obtained information to all the STAs (or user devices) connected to it within its Basic Service Set (BSS).

[0102] Fig. 5B shows a flowchart of another example of an Access Point (AP) behavior, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this example, at a first step, the AP (or network access point) coordinates with the potential target AP (or target network access point) and pre-authenticates the STA (or user device). At a second step, the AP (or network access point) whitelists the MAC address of the STA (or user device) to the next AP (or network access point). At a third step, the AP (or network access point) broadcasts the information to all the STAs (or user devices) connected to it within its BSS.

[0103] Fig. 5C shows a flowchart of yet another example of an Access Point (AP) behavior, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this example, at a first step, the AP (or network access point) provides a list of all the MAC addresses of the neighboring APs. At a second step, the AP (or network access point) receives an early authentication request from the STA (or user device). At a third step, the AP (or network access point) performs association procedures with the STA (or user device).

[0104] Fig. 5D shows a flowchart of an example of a STA (or user device) behavior, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this example, at a first step, the STA (or user device) receives information of the neighboring APs from the current serving AP (or current network access point). At a second step, the STA (or user device) determines if more than one MAC address or other identification of neighboring APs are received. If it is determined that more than one MAC address or other identification of neighboring APs are received, the STA (or user device) evaluates the AP to connect based on the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) of the AP at a third step. At a fourth step, the STA (or user device) rates the potential AP with which it may connect based on the rating the STA (or user device) gives the202405847 25AP. At a fifth step, the STA (or user device) transmits the early authentication request message to the neighboring AP. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no more than one MAC address or other identification of neighboring APs are received, the STA (or user device) proceeds to the fifth step, i.e. transmit the early authentication request message to the neighboring AP.

[0105] In the foregoing manner, various embodiments of the disclosure are described for addressing at least one of the foregoing disadvantages. Such embodiments are intended to be encompassed by the following claims and are not to be limited to specific forms or arrangements of parts so described and it will be apparent to one skilled in the art in view of this disclosure that numerous changes and / or modification can be made, which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.202405847 26Abbreviations:Acronyms DefinitionAAD Authenticated Associated DataAdvanced Encryption Standard - Synthetic Initialization AES-SIVVectorAKM Authentication and Key ManagementAP Access PointASN.1 Abstract Syntax Notation OneASP Application Service PlatformBLE Bluetooth Low EnergyBSS Basic Service SetBSSID Basic Service Set IdentifierCA Certification AuthorityCSR Certificate Signing RequestDER Distinguished Encoding RulesDPP Device Provisioning ProtocolECC Elliptic Curve CryptographyECDH Elliptic Curve Diffie-HellmanGATT Generic AttributesGHz GigahertzGO P2P Group OwnerHKDF HMAC-based Extract-and-Expand Key Derivation Function ID IdentifierIE Information ElementJSON JavaScript Object NotationJWS JSON Web SignatureLSB Least Significant BitMAC Media Access ControlNAK Negative AcknowledgementNDEF NFC Data Exchange FormatNFC Near Field CommunicationOID Object IdentifierOUI Organizationally Unique IdentifierOOB Out-of-bandP2P Peer-to-Peer202405847 27PB Push ButtonPBPA Push Button Presence Announcement PFS Perfect Forward SecrecyPKEX Public Key ExchangePMF Protected Management FramesPMK Pairwise Master KeyPMKID Pairwise Master Key IdentifierPMKSA Pairwise Master Key Security Association PKI Public Key InfrastructurePSK Preshared KeyQR Quick ResponseRA Receiver AddressRA Registration AuthorityRSN Robust Security NetworkSA Source Address (IEEE Std 802.11-2007) SAE Simultaneous Authentication of Equals SDA Service Descriptor AttributeSDF Service Discovery frameSRD Specification Requirements Document SRF Service Response FilterSSID Service Set IdentifierSTA StationTA Transmitter AddressTLV Type-Length-ValueUAID Unique Authenticable IdentifierURI Uniform Resource IdentifierUSB Universal Serial BusWLAN Wireless Local Area NetworkWPA2 Wi-Fi Protected Access 2WPA3 Wi-Fi Protected Access 3WSC Wi-Fi Simple Configuration202405847 28Term DefinitionAlternative The Wi-Fi communication technology that is to be used for Carrier data transfers between an NFC Handover Requester and an NFC Handover Selector.base64url Base 64 Encoding with URL and Filename Safe Alphabet as specified in

[0013] ,Bootstrapping A public key that is obtained through a bootstrapping key method.Bootstrap An entity that performs POSTs to the REST API of the Configurator Bootstrapping Service.Client A P2P Client or a Legacy Client that is connected to a P2P Group Owner.Configurator A logical entity with capabilities to enroll and provision devices for device-to-device communication or Infrastructure communicationConfigurator A key pair generated by the Configurator and used to sign signing key Connector credentials.Credentials The information that is required to join a P2P Group as defined in the Wi-Fi Simple Configuration Specification [9], Connector Credential information that is provisioned on an enrollee device. The Connector is used by a pair of Enrollee devices to establish a security association using the Network Introduction Protocol.In-band Data transfer using the WLAN communication channel, including WLAN multiband devices (for example 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 60 GHz).Initiator A device that initiates the DPP Authentication protocol.Either the Configurator or the Enrollee can take the role of Initiator.JWK JSON Web Key. JSON encoding of keying material as described in RFC 7517

[0014] ,Legacy Client A STA that is Wi-Fi CERTIFIED, but not DPP compliant. Listen Channel The channel chosen from the set of commonly available channels in the 2.4 GHz band 8 (1, 6, and 11 ).Negotiated DPP version used between Peers. This is determined Version during DPP message exchanges based on each Peer's Supported VersionNFC Device NFC Forum compliant contactless device that supports the following: Initiator, Target, and Reader / Writer. It may also support card emulator.NFC Handover An NFC Forum Device that begins the Handover Protocol Requester by issuing a Handover Request Message to another NFC Forum Device.NFC Handover An NFC Forum Device that constructs and replies to a Selector Handover Select Message as a result of a previously received Handover Request MessageAn NFC Forum Tag that provides a pre-set HandoverSelect Message for reading.202405847 29NFC Interface Contactless interface of an NFC Device.NFC Tag NFC Forum compliant contactless memory card that can be read or written by an NFC Device and may be powered by the RF field.Notification A mechanism for the DPP stack to inform the application on an event matching criteria given either in Publish or Subscribe.Operating The channel on which DPP is operating.ChannelOut-of-Band Data transfer using a communication channel other than the WLANProtocol key A public key contributed to the DPP Authentication protocol P2P Client A P2P Device that is connected to a P2P Group Owner. P2P Device Wi-Fi Alliance P2P certified device that is capable of acting as both a P2P Group Owner and a P2P Client.P2P Device An identifier used to uniquely reference a P2P Device. AddressP2P Discovery A capability that provides a set of functions to allow a device to easily and quickly identify and connect to a device and its services in its vicinity.P2P Interface The MAC address of the P2P interface, an address used to Address identify a P2P Device within a P2P Group.Network A set of interconnection capabilities that share a common access policy.Persona An abstraction of the subject of Peer authentication and policy enforcement based on the use of a public key.Peer A Peer is a device provisioned to a network by the Configurator. A Peer is able to connect securely to other devices previously provisioned by the Configurator to the same network. A Configurator itself can be a Peer.Policy A list of constraints describing the required attributes of a subject to pass the policy.Provisioning Securely enabling a device to establish secure associations with other devices in a network.Responder A device that responds to the initiation of the DPP Authentication protocol by the Initiator. Either the Configurator or the Enrollee can take the role of Responder.Security An environment comprised of a set of devices that use Domain common security credentials and policies.Service ID Service IDService Name Service NameString matching performed on a Service Name should be case insensitive by converting the single byte values [A-Z] to lower-case before any processing.Supported The highest DPP version supported by a Peer.VersionTopology The arrangement in which the nodes of a network are202405847 30connected to each other and (in some cases) to other networks.Interactive A bootstrapping method in which both sides actively Bootstrapping participate and can determine when bootstrapping hasterminated.

Claims

202405847 31Claim(s)1. A method (300) for connecting user devices across different networks, the method comprising:obtaining, by a current network access point, data associated with one or more network access points;evaluating the data to determine a target network access point from the one or more network access points;generating a pre-authentication request upon determination of the target network access point; andtransmitting the pre-authentication request to the target network access point for establishing a connection with a user device.

2. The method (300) according to claim 1, further comprising communicating the data associated with one or more network access points to one or more user devices3. The method (300) according to claim 2, wherein communicating the data to one or more user devices comprises communicating the data to one or more user devices within a network of the current network access point.

4. The method (300) according to claim 1, further comprising:receiving the pre-authentication request; andconfiguring the target access point to establish a connection with the user device in response to the pre-authentication request.

5. The method (300) according to claim 1, wherein data associated with one or more network access points comprises at least one of: a medium access control (MAC) address, a basic service set identity (BSSID) and / or an identification of each of the one or more network access points.

6. The method (300) according to claim 1, wherein evaluating the data to determine a target network access point comprises evaluating the data based on a Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) of the one or more network access points.202405847 327. The method (300) according to claim 1, wherein evaluating the data to determine a target network access point further comprises:obtaining at least one beacon frame from the one or more network access points;comparing the at least one beacon frame with the data; andrating the one or more network access points based on the comparison to determine the target network access point.

8. The method (300) according to claim 1, further comprising:communicating location information of the user device to the current network access point;determining the target network access point based on the user device location information and historical data related to an association between the user device and the one or more network access points; andsynchronizing with the target network access point for transmission of the preauthentication request.

9. The method (300) according to claim 1,obtaining information associated with the user device; andcommunicating the information to the target network access point.

10. The method (300) according to claim 1, wherein the pre-authentication request comprises at least one of: a MAC address of the target network access point and / or a MAC address of the current network access point.

11. A computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method (300) according to any of the preceding claims.202405847 3312. A computer readable storage medium having data stored therein representing software executable by a computer, the software including instructions, when executed by the computer, to carry out the method (300) of claims 1-10.

13. An apparatus (102) for connecting user devices across different networks comprising:a first module (202) configured to receive at least one input signal associated with data related to one or more network access points;a second module (204) configured to at least one of process and facilitate the method (300) of claim 1 to claim 10 to generate at least one output signal; anda third module (206) configured to communicate at least one output signal, wherein the output signal corresponds to a control signal for connecting user devices across different networks.

14. The apparatus (102) according to claim 10,wherein the apparatus (102) corresponds to a User Equipment (UE) communicable with a device (104) corresponding to a network access point, and wherein the network access point is configured to communicate the at least one input signal to the UE.

15. A system (100) comprising:at least one apparatus (102) according to any of claims 13 and 14; and at least one device (104) according to claim 14,wherein the apparatus (102) and the device (104) are capable of being coupled via at least one of wired coupling and wireless coupling.

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