Bootstrap Profile Segmentation for eUICC Network Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of mobile communication terminals face inconvenience in accessing different mobile communication networks due to the limitations of SIM card usage, particularly when traveling, as they need physical SIM cards and face issues with roaming services, high rates, and limited network access without WiFi connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for a terminal equipped with an embedded UICC (eUICC) to download and install a SIM profile using a bootstrap profile, allowing access to multiple mobile networks by receiving first and second bootstrap profiles, installing user profiles, and enabling network access through a user selection, even in environments without WiFi, using a transceiver and controller for communication and profile management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single bootstrap profile is used for downloading SIM profiles, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different network environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the bootstrap profile into multiple profiles (first bootstrap profile and second bootstrap profile) with different functions. The first bootstrap profile provides basic network access capability, while the second bootstrap profile enables downloading of actual SIM profiles. This segmentation allows the device to handle different network scenarios using appropriate profiles without increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The first bootstrap profile acts as an intermediary that enables initial network access and facilitates the download of the second bootstrap profile. This intermediary profile bridges the gap between having no network access and being able to download full SIM profiles, solving the contradiction by providing a staged approach to network connectivity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bootstrap profiles are installed in the terminal, then the network access adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects and activates appropriate bootstrap profiles based on network conditions and requirements. Rather than statically managing multiple profiles, the system adapts its profile usage dynamically - using the first bootstrap profile for initial access and the second for profile downloads when needed, thereby managing complexity through dynamic behavior rather than static structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The first bootstrap profile is pre-installed in the terminal to provide immediate network access capability. This preliminary action ensures that the device can connect to a network before downloading the second bootstrap profile, thereby preparing the system in advance for subsequent profile downloads without requiring complex real-time decision-making.
3Reliability
If physical SIM cards are required for network access, then the security and authentication reliability is improved, but the ease of operation and network accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical physical SIM card system with an electronic profile download system. Instead of requiring users to physically insert SIM cards, the system downloads SIM profiles electronically to the eUICC (embedded SIM) in the terminal. This substitution maintains authentication security through cryptographic methods while dramatically improving ease of operation, especially for travelers who can download profiles without visiting physical stores.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates and downloads digital copies of SIM profiles to the terminal's eUICC. These profile copies contain all necessary authentication credentials (IMSI, keys, etc.) equivalent to physical SIM cards but in a downloadable format. This copying approach allows users to obtain network access credentials remotely, eliminating the need for physical SIM card handling while maintaining security through encrypted profile delivery.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. A method by which a terminal receives a profile for a communication service in a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises the steps of: receiving, from a query server by the terminal, first download information for receiving a second bootstrap profile by using a first bootstrap profile, which is one of a plurality of bootstrap profiles installed in the terminal; downloading the second bootstrap profile from a first profile server by using the first download information and installing the second bootstrap profile in the terminal; and installing a user profile in the terminal on the basis of the second bootstrap profile and user selection, and accessing a mobile network by using the user profile.