Mobile Terminal Self-Configuration via Secure Wireless Network
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in entering long and complex Wi-Fi security keys on smartphones, especially when connecting to secure wireless networks generated by Internet access boxes, due to the limitations of small keyboards and the absence of user-friendly alternatives for manual entry or secure key transfer.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves transmitting configuration information, including the network name, type of security, and security key, from the Internet access box to the smartphone via an Over-The-Air SMS message, using a server-connected notification equipment that manages associated mobile terminals, allowing for self-configuration of the smartphone to connect to the secure wireless network without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual entry of security keys is used on smartphones, then users can connect to secure wireless networks, but the complexity and length of keys make entry error-prone and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically transferring configuration information including security keys from the access point to the mobile terminal without requiring manual user input. The terminal autonomously receives and configures the wireless network parameters, eliminating the need for users to manually enter complex security keys while maintaining connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (configuration information transfer system) that acts as a mediator between the access point and mobile terminal. This intermediary system securely transmits the security key and configuration data through a controlled channel, preventing direct exposure of the key to the user while ensuring accurate delivery to the terminal.
2Reliability
If security key length is increased to prevent hacking, then network security is improved, but user ability to enter keys without errors deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows the mobile terminal to automatically receive and configure long security keys without manual input. The terminal self-configures by receiving the complete configuration information package including the 256-bit key, eliminating the need for users to manually type or remember these complex keys while maintaining the high security level.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual entry process with an automated electronic transmission system. Instead of relying on physical keyboard input or touchscreen typing by the user, the security key is electronically transmitted and automatically configured in the terminal, substituting the manual mechanical entry system with an automated digital delivery mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If alternative key transfer methods like SMS are used, then manual entry difficulty is reduced, but the process becomes complex and beyond the reach of neophytes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the configuration information transfer with the existing wireless network connection establishment process. Instead of requiring separate steps for key transfer and network configuration, the system combines these operations into a unified automated process where the terminal receives configuration information and connects to the network in an integrated sequence, reducing overall process complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-configuring the mobile terminal with the necessary network parameters and security keys before the actual wireless connection is established. The configuration information is delivered and stored in advance, so when the connection is needed, the terminal is already prepared and can connect immediately without requiring the user to go through complex setup procedures.
4Extent of automation
If automated configuration systems are implemented, then user effort is reduced, but system complexity and security management requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal configuration transfer mechanism that can serve multiple functions: it transfers security keys, network parameters, and device identification information through a single integrated system. This multi-functional approach reduces the need for separate specialized systems for each type of configuration task, thereby managing overall system complexity while maintaining high automation levels.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The method involves transmitting configuration information that comprises a network name, security type and a security key, from a secure wireless network to Internet access provider server e.g. auto-configuration server (3) or another server (4), using Internet access box (2). The information is transmitted from the server to notification equipment (5) of an operator of a mobile terminal (1), if the terminal is referred as being associated with the box in a mobile terminal database hosted by the server. A message containing the information is transmitted by the equipment to the terminal. An independent claim is also included for a system for configuring a mobile terminal for connection to a secure wireless network.