Network Device Gateway Failover for Internet Outages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network and power outages disrupt users' access to the Internet, requiring cellular backup devices that only operate as Wi-Fi extenders and not as primary network access points during outages.
Innovation Solution
A network device configures to establish a network path and assume the role of a gateway during outages, maintaining Internet access by switching to alternative service providers and performing gateway functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cellular phone or separate access device is used for backup during network/power outages, then Internet access is maintained, but the device can only operate as a Wi-Fi extender and not as a primary gateway
Solution Approach 1:
The network device is designed to perform multiple functions: it operates as a Wi-Fi extender during normal conditions and automatically transitions to assume gateway functions (routing, DHCP, NAT) when the primary gateway fails due to network or power outages. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling a single device to provide both extended coverage and backup gateway services.
Solution Approach 2:
The network device pre-configures itself with backup gateway capabilities and monitoring mechanisms before outages occur. It continuously monitors the primary gateway's status and has ready-to-execute backup routing and network management functions, allowing it to quickly assume gateway roles when needed without requiring separate dedicated backup devices.
2Reliability
If a separate access device is dedicated for backup during outages, then Internet access is ensured, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring separate dedicated backup devices, the invention enables a single network device to serve dual purposes: extending Wi-Fi coverage during normal operation and providing backup gateway functions during outages. This eliminates the need for multiple specialized devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable backup access.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the backup gateway functionality into the existing network device that is already deployed for Wi-Fi extension. By combining these functions in a single device rather than using separate access devices, the system reduces device count and complexity while ensuring continuous Internet access during outages.
3Reliability
If the network device assumes gateway functions during power outages, then continuous access is provided, but the device must perform additional functions beyond Wi-Fi extension
Solution Approach 1:
The network device is pre-configured with backup gateway capabilities including routing tables, DHCP server functionality, and NAT rules before outages occur. When the primary gateway fails, the device automatically activates these pre-configured functions without requiring complex real-time configuration, thereby providing continuous access while managing the complexity through advance preparation.
Solution Approach 2:
The network device dynamically adjusts its operational mode based on the primary gateway's status. During normal operation, it functions only as a Wi-Fi extender with simplified processing. When the primary gateway fails, it dynamically transitions to assume full gateway functions. This dynamic adaptability allows the device to handle additional functions only when necessary, effectively managing complexity based on actual system needs.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, and systems are described for providing back-up access to a wide area network such as the Internet during network and/or power outages. Based on determining a network outage and/or a power outage, a network device may be configured to assume one or more gateway functions to provide access to the wide area network during the network outage and/or the power outage.