Local Network Data Backup Using Peer Device Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing device management systems face excessive strain on enterprise computing and network resources due to repetitive downloads of large confidential files to user devices with limited storage, leading to inefficient use of resources.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where user devices on the same local network can back up, delete, and retrieve confidential data files using local storage and network resources instead of relying on enterprise resources, by encrypting and transferring files between enrolled devices via their public encryption keys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If large confidential files are downloaded to user devices with limited storage, then users can access the files, but enterprise network and computing resources are excessively strained due to repetitive downloads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple user devices into a unified storage system where files are shared across devices. When one device downloads a file, other devices in the group can access the same file without triggering additional downloads from the server, thus reducing network strain while maintaining accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary file transfers between user devices before enterprise resources are needed again. When a user device has downloaded a large file, the system automatically transfers copies to other user devices in advance, so that when those devices need the file, it's already available locally without straining enterprise resources.
2Quantity of substance
If files are stored on user devices with limited storage space, then local access is enabled, but users must repeatedly delete and redownload files, increasing resource strain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes user devices universal storage units that can serve multiple purposes: primary storage, backup storage, and file sharing. Each device in the network can store and provide files to other devices, transforming limited individual storage capacities into a collective, multi-functional storage system that improves overall productivity.
3Reliability
If enterprise resources are used for repetitive file transfers, then file availability is maintained, but resource efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service file distribution where user devices automatically obtain files from other user devices in the network without requiring enterprise server intervention. When a file is needed, the device checks local storage first, then peer devices, only contacting the enterprise server as a last resort, thus maintaining reliability while reducing resource consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are described for backing up confidential data using user devices on the same local network. In an example, a first user device can download a data file from a server. The first user device can connect to the server on the same local network as a second user device. A user can select to delete the file from the first user device. The first user device can send the data file to the second user device using a local Internet Protocol (“IP”) address of the second user device. The second user device can store the data file on its local storage. If the user chooses to retrieve the data file to the first user device again, and if the user devices are on the same local network, the first user device can retrieve the data file from the second user device instead of the server.