Backend Wi-Fi Access Control via Venue Notifications
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Solution Overview
Problem
Captive portals in wireless networks require multiple steps for users to access the internet, providing a sub-optimal user experience and inefficient connection process.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that validate user identifiers at a backend computing device to grant wireless access and transmit venue-specific notifications to user devices when they connect to a network through an access point, simplifying the connection process and enhancing user experience by eliminating the need for captive portals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a captive portal is used to manage wireless network access, then the venue can engage with its client base and control network access, but the user experience deteriorates due to multiple required steps to connect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the captive portal webpage interaction from the connection process, replacing it with direct backend validation of user identifiers. The access control functionality is separated from the traditional web-based portal and integrated into the authentication mechanism itself, allowing users to connect without navigating complex web pages.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary validation of user identifiers before the actual connection is established. By validating credentials in advance through the backend computing device, the system prepares authentication status beforehand, eliminating the need for post-connection captive portal interactions and streamlining the user experience.
2Reliability
If traditional captive portal authentication is implemented, then network security is maintained through verified access, but connection time increases due to multiple authentication steps
Solution Approach 1:
User identifier validation is performed preliminarily and directly during the connection initiation phase rather than requiring multiple subsequent authentication steps. The backend computing device validates credentials before connection is established, reducing total connection time while maintaining security through pre-verification of user identity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent skips the traditional multi-step captive portal workflow by directly validating user identifiers through the backend. The system rushes through the authentication process in a single streamlined operation rather than requiring users to navigate through multiple web pages and authentication stages.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes receiving a wireless connection request at a backend computing device from a user device to allow wireless connection of the user device to a network through an access point located at a venue. The connection request includes a user identifier. The method includes validating the user identifier and granting wireless access of the user device to the access point when the user identifier is valid. The method further includes transmitting a venue-specific notification to the user device when the user device connects to the network.