Network Identifier Generation for Seamless Device Association
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network configurations face challenges in efficiently associating multiple network devices and users with a local area network, particularly due to the dynamic nature of device connections and disconnections, which can lead to multiple network profiles and hinder seamless access to all network devices.
Innovation Solution
The use of unique network identifiers, such as hardware addresses, to generate network fingerprints that include timestamps and device properties, allowing for the identification and association of network devices with the network, and enabling accountless authentication for users, both locally and remotely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple network profiles are created to accommodate dynamic device connections, then network devices can be associated with the network, but user access to all network devices is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple network profiles into a single unified network identifier system. Instead of creating separate profiles for each device connection state, the system uses a common network identifier that represents the entire network, allowing users to access all network devices through one consistent identifier regardless of which devices are currently connected.
Solution Approach 2:
The network identifier is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it identifies the network, tracks device associations, maintains network state information, and enables user access. This universal identifier replaces the need for multiple specialized profiles, simplifying the system while maintaining adaptability to dynamic device connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If network profiles change with device connections and disconnections, then network devices can be dynamically associated, but multiple network profiles prevent seamless access
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments network state information into separate data structures that can be independently managed. The network identifier remains stable while device association information is stored separately, allowing the system to track which devices are connected without changing the fundamental network identifier, thus maintaining access consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic system where device associations can be added or removed without affecting the stability of the network identifier. The network identifier maintains a consistent reference while the association list dynamically updates to reflect current device connections, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability.
3Device complexity
If devices can connect to only one network at a time, then network association is simplified, but existing network devices cannot access all network devices
Solution Approach 1:
The network identifier acts as an intermediary that mediates between devices and the network. Instead of devices needing direct knowledge of all other devices or maintaining complex routing information, the network identifier serves as a common reference point that enables devices to discover and access all other network devices through a single identifier.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for associating devices and users with a local area network using network identifiers are provided. For example, a method, system, and computer-program product for associating network devices with a local area network using a network identifier are provided. For example, a method may include receiving, at a computing device, a communication including a unique identifier for a network device connected to a network. The method may further include using the unique identifier to determine properties of the network device and generating a network identifier for the network, wherein the network identifier includes an indication of a time at which the network identifier is generated, an indication of the computing device, and an indication of the network device properties. The method can also include transmitting the network identifier, wherein when the network identifier is received, the network identifier facilitates identifying the network and associating the network device with the network.