Hybrid Virtual Cell and Port Wireless Network Architecture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless networks face challenges with seamless mobility, security threats from unruly stations, and the inability to differentiate service needs for various stations, as they rely on a single Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID) for all connected stations, leading to inefficient resource management and security vulnerabilities.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a hybrid of virtual cell and virtual port service modes on a per-station basis, where a controller directs access points to select service modes based on station identification, history, and behavior, assigning unique or persistent BSSIDs to optimize network resources and security, allowing for seamless mobility and tighter control over unruly stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single BSSID is used for all connected stations, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but network control and security are weakened, and service differentiation is impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the BSSID resource by creating multiple virtual BSSIDs (virtual cell BSSIDs and virtual port BSSIDs) that can be dynamically assigned to different stations. This allows the system to maintain the simplicity of a single physical BSSID while enabling service differentiation through logical segmentation. Stations are assigned specific BSSIDs based on their service requirements, allowing differentiated access control and service policies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the BSSID parameter dynamically based on station characteristics and service requirements. The controller assigns different BSSID values to different stations or station groups, enabling service differentiation without changing the physical access point configuration. This parameter change approach allows flexible adaptation of network services while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Device complexity
If a single BSSID is used for all connected stations, then device complexity is reduced, but network control and security monitoring are weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments BSSID assignment control between the access point (which maintains simple single BSSID configuration) and the controller (which manages multiple virtual BSSIDs). This segmentation allows the access point to remain simple while the controller provides enhanced security monitoring and control by tracking which stations are assigned which BSSIDs and enforcing security policies.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the access point and stations, managing BSSID assignment and security policies. This intermediary enables enhanced network control and security monitoring without increasing access point complexity. The controller mediates between the simple access point configuration and the need for sophisticated security management.
3Reliability
If virtual port service mode with per-station BSSID assignment is used, then network control and security are improved, but device complexity and resource overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic BSSID assignment where the controller assigns BSSIDs based on real-time station characteristics, service requirements, and network conditions. This dynamic approach optimizes network control by adapting to changing conditions while managing controller complexity through event-driven assignment rather than continuous processing. The system transitions between different service modes (virtual cell, virtual port, native cell) based on station behavior and network state.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different levels of control and BSSID management to different stations based on their specific needs. Rather than applying uniform per-station BSSID assignment to all stations, the system uses virtual cell BSSIDs for stations requiring seamless mobility and virtual port BSSIDs for stations requiring tight control. This local quality approach optimizes controller processing by applying complex management only where necessary.
4Ease of operation
If virtual cell service mode with persistent BSSID is used, then seamless mobility is improved, but network control over individual stations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments service modes into virtual cell mode (for seamless mobility) and virtual port mode (for tight control), allowing the system to provide both capabilities through different BSSID assignment strategies. Stations can be assigned persistent virtual cell BSSIDs for mobility while the controller maintains ability to switch to virtual port mode for control when needed, segmenting the control approach by station and situation.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller directing access points to default to a virtual cell service mode which allows seamless mobility for stations in motion around a wireless network is disclosed. Responsive to identifying a first station, the controller logic may dictate tighter controls for the first station by selecting a virtual port service mode. Some embodiments can also select a native cell service mode for devices due to a connection history of the station or a MAC OUI that is incompatible with virtual cell service mode. An initial service mode can be changed due to a condition. Also, the controller provides multiple BSSIDs to each access point.