Extended Wireless Access Gateway Wi-Fi Offload
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication architectures require specific software deployment and management on customer premise equipment (CPEs) for integrating Wi-Fi in mobile aggregation, which is cumbersome and inefficient, especially for mobile operators seeking to leverage trusted WiFi access without the need for client software installation.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Proxy Interworking Wireless Local Area Network (PIWLAN) model, which uses a network-based solution with managed Wi-Fi access, 802.1X EAP-SIM/EAP-AKA authentication, and a network node consolidating Wireless Access Gateway (WAG) and Tunneling Gateway (TTG) functions into an Extended Wireless Access Gateway (EWAG), allowing seamless integration of Wi-Fi as another wireless access type without specific client software on CPEs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If specific client software is deployed on CPEs for Wi-Fi integration, then Wi-Fi access control and management is achieved, but device complexity and deployment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network-based intermediary system (EWAG, GGSN, PDN-GW) that mediates between CPEs and the Wi-Fi network. Instead of requiring software on CPEs, the network infrastructure performs authentication, authorization, and data routing functions, eliminating client software complexity while maintaining reliable access control through centralized management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/software-based client installation approach with a network-based solution. The EWAG and core network elements perform functions that would otherwise require CPE software, substituting distributed client-side mechanisms with centralized network-side processing.
2Ease of operation
If network-based solution without client software is used, then ease of operation improves, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges WAG and TTG functions into a single EWAG entity, consolidating network complexity into one manageable node. This integration simplifies the overall architecture by reducing the number of separate components while maintaining the necessary network control and routing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The EWAG and network elements are designed to handle multiple functions: authentication (802.1X EAP-SIM/EAP-AKA), authorization, data routing, and Wi-Fi offload. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, simplifying deployment while maintaining robust network control.
3Productivity
If Wi-Fi offload is implemented, then productivity and network scalability improve, but loss of existing subscriber relationships may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network continuously monitors and manages Wi-Fi subscriber sessions through the core network (GGSN, PDN-GW, HSS/HLR). This ensures that subscriber relationships are maintained and managed centrally, preventing loss of existing relationships while enabling efficient Wi-Fi offload.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided in one example embodiment and includes receiving a dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) discovery signal at a wireless network element from a customer premise equipment; requesting that a data session be established at a gateway; receiving an Internet protocol (IP) address; and communicating the IP address to the customer premise equipment.