Cloud Zero-Touch Network Device Provisioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for provisioning network devices are costly and time-consuming, requiring onsite IT support and multiple shipments, which delays wireless networking equipment deployment and increases labor and shipping costs.
Innovation Solution
A cloud-based zero-touch provisioning system that automates network device configuration, eliminating the need for onsite support by using a folder-based system where devices are pre-associated with provisioning rules, allowing them to retrieve configuration settings from a cloud service upon power-up, and automatically assign themselves to specific locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If network devices are provisioned using conventional methods with onsite IT support, then configuration accuracy is improved, but deployment time and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring network devices with provisioning information before shipment. Devices are pre-associated with provisioning rules and folder structures in the cloud, eliminating the need for onsite configuration and enabling automated self-provisioning upon power-up.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling network devices to automatically provision themselves without human intervention. Devices autonomously retrieve configuration settings from cloud-based provisioning information and complete setup independently, eliminating dependency on IT personnel.
2Productivity
If network devices are pre-configured and re-shipped to customers, then deployment speed is improved, but shipping costs and logistical complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the provisioning information from physical devices and stores it in cloud-based folders. This separation allows devices to be shipped without pre-configuration, eliminating re-shipment needs while maintaining fast deployment through automated cloud-based configuration retrieval.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cloud-based provisioning system as an intermediary between device manufacturers and customers. This intermediary stores provisioning information and enables automated device configuration without physical device manipulation, eliminating shipping costs while maintaining deployment speed.
3Loss of energy
If employees provision devices themselves with instructions, then labor costs are reduced, but configuration accuracy and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling network devices to automatically provision themselves without human intervention. Devices autonomously retrieve configuration settings from cloud-based provisioning information and complete setup independently, eliminating dependency on IT personnel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies feedback by implementing automated validation mechanisms that verify device configuration against provisioning rules. The system monitors device status and ensures proper configuration through automated checks, maintaining reliability without human intervention.
4Reliability
If multiple provisioning facilities are established, then service quality is improved, but infrastructure costs and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a single cloud-based provisioning system that serves multiple locations and device types. This universal platform eliminates the need for multiple physical facilities while maintaining high service quality through centralized management and consistent provisioning processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cloud-based provisioning system as an intermediary that centralizes provisioning functions. This intermediary eliminates the need for distributed provisioning facilities, reducing infrastructure complexity while maintaining service quality through automated and standardized processes.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a method comprises automatically uploading device information from a first network device in a first operating state to a second network device in response to an event, such as an initial power up. The second network device is part of the cloud, and thus, providing cloud-based services. Subsequent to the uploading of the device information, the first network device receives information controlling the operation of the first network device based on the device information.