Location-Aware Private Network Access Control Inside Buildings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network access control systems lack the ability to manage access based on the specific location of a network-connected device within a private network, leading to inadequate security and control over device interactions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system where a local router identifies the room or location of a device attempting to connect and manages network traffic based on access control rules that incorporate the device's location, time of day, and other criteria, using beacons to associate devices with specific locations and a gateway device to enforce these rules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If network access control is implemented without location awareness, then the system is simpler to deploy, but security and control over device interactions are inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces location services as an intermediary component between the access control system and endpoint devices. Location services act as a mediator that provides location information to the access control decision-making process, enabling location-aware security without requiring complex modifications to the core access control architecture. This intermediary approach allows the system to incorporate location data while maintaining relative simplicity in the overall system design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the access control system into distinct functional components: access control policies, location services, and enforcement mechanisms. By dividing the system into separate modules that can independently function and communicate through standardized interfaces, the patent reduces overall system complexity while enhancing security capabilities. Each component can be deployed and managed independently, making the system more scalable and easier to implement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If access control rules are applied without considering device location, then the control mechanism is simpler, but granular control over network access is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic access control rules that automatically adapt to the location of endpoint devices. Instead of static access control lists, the system dynamically evaluates location information when making access decisions, allowing control policies to change based on real-time device positions. This dynamic approach enables granular control flexibility without requiring complex manual configuration, as the system automatically adjusts access rights based on location-aware policies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality principles by enabling different access control policies to be enforced at different locations within the network. Each location can have its own specific access rules and requirements, allowing the system to provide tailored control mechanisms for different spatial contexts. This localizes the control mechanism complexity to specific geographic or logical areas rather than requiring system-wide complexity.
3Reliability
If location-based access control is implemented, then granular control and security are enhanced, but the system requires additional components and infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs location services with multi-functionality, enabling them to serve multiple purposes: providing location information for access control decisions, tracking device movement patterns, and enabling location-based policies. By making location services universal and multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby simplifying deployment while maintaining enhanced security capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the system automatically collects, processes, and applies location information without requiring extensive manual intervention. Location-aware access control decisions are made automatically based on predefined policies and real-time location data, reducing the operational complexity and deployment burden. The system serves itself by automatically enforcing location-based restrictions and generating necessary security measures.
Data Source
AI summary
In one example, the present disclosure describes a device, computer-readable medium, and method for managing access control in private networks like home or corporate networks based on a current location such as a defined area, e.g., a room, in which a network-connected device is located. For instance, in one example, a method performed by a processing system including at least one processor includes receiving a request from a user endpoint device to access a private network that provides a network connectivity within a structure, determining a current location of the user endpoint device within the structure, determining whether an access control rule permits access to the private network for a combination of the user endpoint device and the current location of the user endpoint device, and taking, in response to the determining, an action to enforce the access control rule.