Zero Configuration Mesh Access Point via Beacon Authentication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless access points in mesh networks require manual configuration, which becomes invalid when moved to different locations, necessitating reconfiguration.

Innovation Solution

A system where a client access point joins a mesh network with zero configuration by receiving a beacon frame with unique identifiers from a host access point, allowing automatic configuration and connection to the network from any location.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual configuration is used for access points, then initial network setup is possible, but reconfiguration is required when access points are moved to different locations

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveInitial access point setupVSAvoidAccess point mobility

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by having the controller pre-generate and distribute beacon frames containing unique identifiers to host access points before client access points need to connect. This preliminary configuration enables client access points to automatically join the network without manual setup at their specific locations, resolving the contradiction between initial setup ease and mobility adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If access points are manually configured with location-specific data, then network connectivity is established, but configuration becomes invalid when moved

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveNetwork connectivityVSAvoidLocation flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The beacon frames distributed to host access points contain universal unique identifiers that can serve any client access point regardless of location. This universal configuration approach maintains reliable network connectivity while enabling location flexibility, as the same beacon frames can authenticate client access points anywhere in the mesh network without requiring location-specific reconfiguration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If automatic configuration is implemented using beacon frames, then access point mobility is enabled, but network security requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveAccess point mobilityVSAvoidNetwork security management

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The controller serves as an intermediary that manages the distribution of beacon frames containing unique identifiers to host access points. This intermediary approach enables access point mobility through automatic configuration while centralizing security management, reducing the complexity burden on individual access points and network administrators by handling security protocols at the controller level

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10044840B2Zero configuration of an access point connecting to a mesh network

Publication Date: 2018.08.07 FORTINET INC

AI summary

A client access point joins a wireless network over a wireless connection in order to allow stations access to the wireless network. To join, the client access point (having a wireless connection to a mesh network) receives a beacon frame with unique identifiers of authorized client access points from a host access point (having a wired connection to the mesh network). Responsive to a unique identifier of the beacon frame matching the unique identifier of the client access point, a connection request for a connection is sent. A connection response confirming configuration of the client access point with the host access point in accordance is received.