Carrier Network Blocking via Unauthorized Combination Filters
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to manage access to carrier networks effectively for mobile handheld devices, particularly during network software upgrades, where certain devices become incompatible with specific carrier networks due to new services and features, requiring a solution to temporarily block devices from accessing the network to ensure compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the creation of unauthorized combination filters with device parameters such as device type, OS version, and application version is used to temporarily block devices from accessing the carrier network by comparing these parameters with those stored in the device, and updating them when they no longer match the filter criteria, allowing access once compatibility is restored.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If network software is upgraded to provide new services and features, then network functionality and services are improved, but device compatibility with the carrier network deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary blocking of devices that do not meet the minimum software version requirements before they can access the network. By establishing version filters in advance and comparing device parameters against these filters, the network proactively prevents incompatible devices from connecting, thus maintaining service reliability while allowing software upgrades to proceed.
2Reliability
If devices are blocked from the network during software upgrades, then network compatibility is maintained, but device access and user productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking mechanism is dynamic rather than static. Devices are temporarily blocked only during the upgrade transition period when their software version does not meet the minimum requirements. Once devices update their software to compatible versions, the system automatically detects the version change and restores network access. This dynamic approach maintains compatibility during upgrades while minimizing disruption to productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors device software versions and provides feedback through the blocking mechanism. When a device attempts to access the network with an incompatible version, it receives a block response that prompts the user to update. After the update, the system detects the new version and provides positive feedback by granting access. This feedback loop ensures compatibility maintenance while guiding users through necessary updates.
3Reliability
If device parameters are strictly compared against filter criteria, then network security and compatibility are ensured, but flexibility in device access is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses configurable parameters including minimum software version requirements, device type specifications, and carrier identifiers that can be adjusted based on network needs. These parameters define the blocking criteria, allowing the system to maintain security through strict comparison while adapting flexibility by modifying the parameters themselves as software versions evolve and new device types are introduced.
Data Source
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AI summary
There is disclosed a system and method for blocking a device from a carrier network. In an embodiment, the method comprises defining an unauthorized combination filter including one or more device parameters; attaching the unauthorized combination filter to a carrier; comparing the device parameter values in the unauthorized combination filter to device parameter values stored in the device; and if the device parameter values stored in the device match the device parameter values in the unauthorized combination filter, then blocking the device from accessing the carrier network. The device parameter values stored in the device may include one or more of a device type value, a device operating system version value, and a device application version value, and the method further comprises comparing these one or more values to corresponding device parameter values defined in the unauthorized combination filter. The unauthorized combination filter may be attached to a carrier by providing a carrier identifier.