Dynamic Wi-Fi Access Control for Network Congestion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hotspot authentication mechanisms do not support efficient offloading to Wi-Fi networks during mobile network congestion, as most users with Wi-Fi capable devices continue using mobile networks despite access to Wi-Fi, and there is a lack of dynamic configuration for temporary Wi-Fi access rights, limiting the ability to manage network congestion effectively.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic access rights management system that temporarily grants Wi-Fi access to users without Wi-Fi subscriptions based on conditions such as mobile network congestion, using a Wi-Fi Offload Manager to communicate with AAA servers and network discovery/selection tools to modify access rights and direct user devices to available Wi-Fi networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If Wi-Fi access control is permanently disabled to allow users without subscriptions to access the Wi-Fi network, then network accessibility is improved, but network security and subscription-based access control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic access control by temporarily disabling Wi-Fi access control only during congestion conditions. The system monitors network load and dynamically switches between restricted and unrestricted access modes, allowing flexible adaptation to changing network conditions while maintaining subscription-based access control during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the access control parameter from a static state to a dynamic state based on network congestion conditions. When congestion is detected, the access control parameter is modified to allow temporary unrestricted access, and when congestion resolves, the parameter reverts to its original restricted state, maintaining subscription-based control.
2Productivity
If temporary Wi-Fi access rights are granted during congestion to offload users, then mobile network load is reduced, but system complexity increases due to dynamic configuration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically detecting network congestion conditions and autonomously disabling/enabling access control without requiring manual configuration. The Wi-Fi access point monitors its own load and dynamically adjusts access control settings, eliminating the need for complex external management systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from network load monitoring to automatically adjust access control settings. When congestion is detected through continuous monitoring, the system responds by temporarily disabling access control to offload users, and when load normalizes, it re-enables control, creating a closed-loop automatic management system.
3Productivity
If access control is disabled to enable efficient offloading during congestion, then network resource utilization is improved, but the ability to restore access control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic monitoring of network load conditions and periodically evaluates whether to maintain or restore access control. This continuous cyclic monitoring and adjustment ensures that access control is temporarily disabled only as long as congestion conditions persist, automatically restoring control when conditions improve.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method including modifying access rights for a Wi-Fi network in response to a condition, wherein modifying the access rights for the Wi-Fi network allows users without Wi-Fi subscriptions to access the Wi-Fi network. The method may further include returning the access rights back to their prior state when the condition is no longer met.