Multi-Link Session Key Negotiation Using a Shared PMK

The patent merges the key negotiation process across multiple links by introducing a single PMK ID that spans all links. Instead of negotiating separate session keys for each link independently, the system combines them under a unified PMK structure, allowing one PMK to serve multiple links simultaneously. This reduces the number of separate negotiation processes while maintaining security requirements for each link.

The patent makes the PMK structure universal across multiple links by allowing a single PMK to be shared and reused across different links. The PMK ID field enables the same PMK to be identified and used on multiple links, making the key negotiation mechanism multi-functional rather than link-specific. This universal approach satisfies multi-link requirements without proportionally increasing complexity.

The patent performs preliminary action by establishing a single PMK negotiation before multi-link operations begin. The PMK is negotiated once and then reused across multiple links, avoiding the need to repeat the entire key negotiation process for each additional link. This preliminary establishment of the PMK structure saves significant time while maintaining security through the use of link-specific derived keys when needed.

The patent applies partial action by negotiating only the essential PMK component once, rather than negotiating complete session keys for each link. The system performs the minimum necessary negotiation (PMK establishment) and then reuses it across multiple links, performing partial key derivation only when specific security requirements demand it. This reduces overall negotiation time while maintaining adequate security.