Layer 2 Tunneling for Transparent Mobile Network Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current Layer 3 tunnelling solutions lack layer 2 transparency, requiring specific client software and relying on static configuration, which limits their applicability in SOHO environments and increases management burden, while direct Ethernet transmission over the air faces standardization issues, making it impractical.
Innovation Solution
The method involves establishing first and second layer 2 tunnels between connectivity service functions within the mobile network and remote network, using virtual switches or bridges to interconnect these tunnels, enabling layer 2 access without the need for client software installation and allowing for dynamic tunnel establishment, thereby providing transparent Ethernet connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If Layer 3 tunnelling solutions are used to provide connectivity between mobile terminal and remote network, then connectivity is established, but layer 2 transparency is lost requiring client software installation and static configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobile network operator's network as an intermediary Layer 2 tunnel between the mobile terminal and remote network. This intermediary tunnel provides transparent Layer 2 connectivity without requiring client software on the terminal, as the tunneling function is implemented in the network infrastructure rather than on the user device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the mobile terminal to directly establish Layer 2 connectivity to the remote network through the operator's network tunnel. The terminal obtains IP addressing and connectivity services automatically without requiring manual configuration or specialized client software, as the network infrastructure handles all tunneling and transparency functions.
2Reliability
If Layer 3 tunnelling with static configuration is used, then connectivity is provided, but management burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic tunnel establishment where the Layer 2 tunnel between the mobile terminal and remote network is created on-demand rather than being statically pre-configured. The tunnel is dynamically set up when connectivity is needed and can be dynamically managed by the network operator, eliminating the need for complex static configuration and reducing management burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service connectivity where the mobile terminal can automatically establish Layer 2 connectivity through the operator's network without requiring manual configuration. The network infrastructure automatically handles tunnel setup, IP addressing, and connectivity management, significantly reducing the management burden on users and administrators.
3Adaptability or versatility
If direct Ethernet transmission over the air is implemented, then layer 2 transparency is achieved, but standardization issues arise making it impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the mobile network operator's network infrastructure as an intermediary Layer 2 tunnel that bridges the mobile terminal and remote network. This intermediary approach achieves Layer 2 transparency without requiring direct over-the-air Ethernet transmission, thereby avoiding standardization issues while maintaining the benefits of transparent connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a virtual copy of the remote network's Layer 2 environment within the mobile network operator's infrastructure. This virtual Layer 2 network replicates the transparency and connectivity characteristics of direct Ethernet transmission without requiring actual over-the-air Ethernet signals, making it practical and standardized.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided of enabling access for a terminal (12-1) to a remote network (60) via a mobile network (40). A first connectivity service function (30) is provided as part of the mobile network (40). A second connectivity service function (20) is provided as part of the remote network (60). A third connectivity service function (10) is provided associated with the terminal (12-1). The first connectivity service function (30) is adapted to cooperate in establishing a first layer 2 tunnel (25) between itself (30) and the second connectivity service function (20). The first connectivity service function (30) is also adapted to cooperate in establishing a second layer 2 tunnel (15) between itself (30) and the third connectivity service function (10). The terminal (12-1) thereby has layer 2 access into the remote network (60) through the first and second tunnels (25, 15) using the first, second and third connectivity service functions (30, 20, 10).