eUICC Key Provisioning for Two-Factor Network Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of securely and efficiently managing network access credentials for machine-to-machine (M2M) devices using embedded universal integrated circuit cards (eUICC) without physical intervention, particularly in scenarios where traditional SIM cards are impractical due to remote locations, hermetic sealing, or frequent network changes, is addressed.
Innovation Solution
The system enables secure and efficient communication by using an eUICC that supports authentication and key management, allowing modules to remotely update network access credentials through cryptographic algorithms, ensuring control over key distribution and rotation without physical replacement of the eUICC.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical SIM cards are used for authentication, then authentication security is maintained, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase in remote locations and hermetic sealing scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical SIM card functionality through the eUICC (embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card). Instead of requiring physical SIM cards that must be manually replaced, the system embeds the authentication logic directly into the device's universal integrated circuit card, allowing remote provisioning and updates without physical intervention while maintaining equivalent authentication security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical SIM card insertion and removal with an electronic embedding system. The eUICC integrates authentication capabilities directly into the device's circuit board, eliminating the need for mechanical card slots and physical card handling, thereby simplifying operations in remote and hermetic environments while preserving security through cryptographic authentication mechanisms.
2Reliability
If traditional SIM cards are used, then authentication is maintained, but adaptability to network changes and deployment flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability by allowing the eUICC to receive remote provisioning updates that enable switching between different network operators. The system can dynamically load and activate different operator profiles stored on the eUICC, allowing a single device to adapt to multiple network configurations without physical card changes, thereby significantly improving deployment flexibility and network switching capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal authentication platform where a single eUICC can serve multiple network operators and deployment scenarios. The embedded card contains the capability to store and switch between different operator profiles, making it a multi-functional authentication solution that replaces the need for multiple physical SIM cards, thereby enhancing both adaptability and versatility.
3Reliability
If physical SIM card distribution is used, then authentication is provided, but loss of time and cost efficiency increase in remote and hermetic scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-provisioning operator profiles and authentication data directly onto the eUICC during manufacturing or remotely before deployment. This allows the device to be activated immediately upon insertion without requiring time-consuming physical SIM card replacement or on-site configuration, significantly reducing deployment time and costs especially in remote and hermetic locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables self-service by allowing the eUICC to autonomously receive provisioning updates and activate network services without physical intervention. The embedded card can self-configure and self-update its authentication parameters remotely, eliminating the need for manual card replacement and reducing both time loss and operational costs in scenarios where physical access is difficult or impossible.
Data Source
AI summary
A module with an embedded universal integrated circuit card (eUICC) can include a profile for the eUICC. The profile can include a first and second shared secret key K for authenticating with a wireless network. The first shared secret key K can be encrypted with a first key, and the second shared secret key K can be encrypted with a second key. The module can (i) receive the first key, (ii) decrypt the first shared secret key K with the first key, and (iii) subsequently authenticate with the wireless network using the plaintext first shared secret key K. The wireless network can authenticate the user of the module using a second factor. The module can then (i) receive the second key, (ii) decrypt the second shared secret key K, and (iii) authenticate with the wireless network using the second shared secret key K. The module can comprise a mobile phone.