Lawful Interception in Broadband Networks via Distributed Access Points
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lawful interception technologies are inadequate for intercepting data transmissions that do not pass through centralized core network elements, particularly in broadband networks, and are not scalable to handle high-bandwidth multimedia communications.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that intercept data transmissions in broadband networks by identifying targets, directing intercept access points to capture data, and forwarding it to a delivery function for transmission to authorized entities, even if the data does not pass through core network elements, using administration and delivery functions within lawful intercept nodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If centralized core network elements are used for lawful interception, then interception capability is maintained for traditional voice traffic, but peer-to-peer broadband traffic that does not pass through core network elements cannot be intercepted
Solution Approach 1:
The lawful interception functionality is segmented between centralized core network elements and distributed access network elements. Access network elements (such as DSLAMs or OLTs) are equipped with interception capabilities to capture broadband traffic locally, while core network elements maintain traditional interception functions. This segmentation allows interception of peer-to-peer traffic without requiring all traffic to pass through centralized elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Access network elements serve as intermediaries between end users and the core network. By equipping these intermediary elements with lawful interception capabilities, the system can intercept broadband traffic before it reaches the core network, enabling interception of traffic that would otherwise bypass centralized elements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing interception technologies designed for voice communications are used, then low-bandwidth voice traffic can be intercepted, but high-bandwidth multimedia traffic cannot be properly handled
Solution Approach 1:
The interception system is enhanced by changing the bandwidth parameter capability of access network elements. These elements are equipped with sufficient processing power and bandwidth capacity to handle high-bandwidth multimedia traffic (video streaming, file sharing) in addition to traditional voice traffic, enabling the system to adapt to varying traffic types and bandwidth requirements.
3Ease of manufacture
If centralized core network elements are used for lawful interception, then interception infrastructure is simplified, but cost increases and scalability to handle diverse traffic types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting interception functionality across access and core networks, the system reduces the burden on centralized elements and distributes costs more efficiently. Access network elements handle interception for their respective customer premises, reducing the need for expensive centralized processing capacity while improving scalability.
Solution Approach 2:
Access network elements are designed to perform multiple functions: providing access services to customers and simultaneously performing lawful interception functions. This multi-functionality reduces overall system cost by eliminating dedicated interception hardware at core elements while maintaining the ability to handle diverse traffic types through the universal access infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for lawful interception of data transmissions through at least one broadband network. Data transmissions, including voice and data services as well as high bandwidth transmissions such as multimedia and video, are intercepted and routed to authorized agencies such as law enforcement monitoring facilities. The systems and methods also enable interception of data transmissions such as peer to peer type data transmissions that pass through broadband networks from source to recipient without passing through centralized core network elements. These transmissions are intercepted at access points distributed throughout the broadband networks and forwarded to lawful intercept node elements for transmission to authorized entities.