Network Device Credential Selection via Signal Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for adding smart devices to wireless networks are tedious and vulnerable to unauthorized access, requiring users to manually enter network passwords and relying on smartphones for setup.
Innovation Solution
A method where a first device, included in both a Wi-Fi network and a proprietary mesh network, receives requests from unknown devices to join, determines which credentials to transmit based on signal strength, location, or server instructions, and sends appropriate credentials or denial messages to the requesting device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual password entry methods are used for adding smart devices to networks, then network security is maintained, but user convenience and ease of setup deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The smart device performs self-identification and self-registration by transmitting its identifier to the server, which automatically determines network membership and sends appropriate credentials without requiring manual user intervention for password entry
Solution Approach 2:
A server acts as an intermediary between the smart device and the network, receiving device identifiers, determining network membership, and coordinating credential distribution, thereby simplifying the setup process while maintaining security
2Ease of operation
If automated credential transmission is implemented, then ease of device addition is improved, but vulnerability to unauthorized access increases
Solution Approach 1:
The server receives the device identifier, processes security determinations based on this feedback, and returns appropriate credentials or denial messages, creating a secure feedback loop that automates credential transmission while maintaining security through server-based authentication
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of credential transmission from manual to automated based on server determinations of network membership and security conditions, enabling ease of device addition while maintaining security through conditional automated transmission
3Adaptability or versatility
If network credentials are transmitted to unknown devices, then network accessibility is improved, but security vulnerability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The server performs preliminary security determinations by receiving and processing the device identifier before transmitting any credentials, ensuring that only authorized devices receive network access information and preventing unauthorized access while maintaining accessibility for legitimate devices
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes receiving, by a first device that is included in a first network and a second network, a request from a second device to join the first network. The method also includes making, by the first device, determinations of whether to transmit the second device a first credential corresponding to the first network and whether to transmit the second device a second credential corresponding to the second network. The method also includes using the determinations as a basis to select, as content for a message, the first credential, the second credential, or an indication that the second device is not allowed on the first network and not allowed on the second network. The method also includes transmitting the message that includes the content to the second device.