5G NEF Matching Processor Identity for Hardware Encryption
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G networks, inefficiencies arise when subscriber devices and edge servers or network servers have different processor architectures, leading to inefficiencies in encryption/decryption processes and root of trust security mechanisms, as they often require software intermediation rather than hardware-based solutions.
Innovation Solution
The Network Exposure Function (NEF) identifies and matches subscriber devices with network servers having matching processor architectures, enabling hardware-based encryption and secure connections by including processor identity information in processor matching messages and utilizing a distributed ledger for auditing and authentication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If subscriber devices connect to network servers with different processor architectures, then network service coverage is improved, but encryption and security mechanisms become less efficient due to requiring software intermediation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of processor architecture matching between subscriber devices and network servers. By selecting servers whose processor architecture matches the device's processor architecture, the system enables hardware-based encryption and security mechanisms instead of software intermediation, thereby improving encryption efficiency while maintaining network service coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The Network Exposure Function (NEF) acts as an intermediary that captures processor identity information from subscriber devices, queries the distributed ledger server for matching servers, and establishes connections between devices and compatible servers. This intermediary resolves the contradiction by enabling architecture-matched connections without limiting network accessibility
2Reliability
If processor identity verification is implemented through distributed ledger, then security is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex processor identity verification and matching logic from the subscriber devices and集中ates it in the Network Exposure Function (NEF). Devices only need to provide their processor identity information, while the NEF handles querying the distributed ledger, finding matching servers, and establishing connections. This extraction reduces device complexity while maintaining security through immutable identity verification
Solution Approach 2:
The distributed ledger server performs self-service by automatically verifying processor identities and providing matching server information without requiring complex verification logic in client devices. The immutable nature of the ledger provides security while keeping the system architecture simple and decentralized
Data Source
AI summary
A method of establishing a network connection between a subscriber device and a network server having a server processor matching a device processor of the subscriber device. The method comprises receiving a processor matching message (PMM) by an Exposure Function (EF) executing on a computer system, where the PMM comprises a request for a network service and an EF attribute representing an identity of a device processor of a subscriber device, determining by the EF the existence of a matching network server offering the requested network service and having a server processor with an identity matching the identity of the device processor, and based on the determination that the matching network server exists, establishing by the EF a connection between the matching network server and the subscriber device.