Network Authentication Intermediary for Secure Service Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for accessing premium television services in a different user's environment are cumbersome, prone to device damage, limited to specific devices, and require extensive user interaction, restricting media consumption to individual home environments.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that register a user device with the first network, authenticate it with the second network, and provide connectivity information to configure the second network for accessing services or data from the first network, using IEEE 802.1x-based authentication and operator network infrastructure for secure and user-friendly access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a user brings their set top box to another user's environment, then both users can consume premium television services, but the set top box may be damaged during transport and extensive user interaction is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary authentication system that mediates between the first network (service provider) and second network (host environment). The system automatically authenticates the user device with the second network and establishes connectivity without requiring manual intervention, thus resolving the contradiction between service access flexibility and operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service authentication where the user device automatically registers with the first network and authenticates with the second network without extensive user interaction. The authentication and connectivity establishment occur autonomously, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining service access flexibility
2Reliability
If conventional authentication methods are used, then service access is secured, but the process is complicated and requires extensive user interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical authentication processes with automated electronic authentication mechanisms. The system uses automated authentication protocols to verify user credentials and establish connectivity, substituting the complex manual process with a streamlined electronic system that maintains security while reducing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary authentication actions automatically during the connectivity establishment process. The user device pre-authenticates with the first network and then automatically authenticates with the second network before service access is granted, eliminating the need for extensive user interaction while maintaining security
3Adaptability or versatility
If set top boxes are carried between environments, then service access is enabled, but the set top box is vulnerable to damage from environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the authentication and connectivity information rather than requiring the physical set top box to be transported. The authentication credentials and connectivity parameters are digitally replicated and transferred between networks, eliminating the need for physical device movement and associated environmental risks
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication system acts as an intermediary that enables service access without requiring physical device transport. The system mediates between the first network and second network to establish connectivity automatically, replacing the physical portability requirement with a virtual authentication mechanism that eliminates environmental damage risks
Data Source
AI summary
A method for accessing service/data of a first network from a second network includes accessing the services and data of the first network from the second network includes registering a user device with the first network to access the services or data of the first network. The user device connects with the second network and authenticates the user device with the second network subsequent to registering the user device with the first network. The user device provides connectivity information of the first network to the second network to configure the second network to access the services or data of the first network. The first network is able to provide the services or data to the second network based on the user device being registered to access the services or data prior to being authenticated with the second network.