Telecommunications Network Initialization via Device Identifier Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing telecommunications network initialization methods are inefficient and insecure, as they require pre-configured credentials distributed in untrusted environments, leading to time-consuming connections and logistical challenges, with no plug-and-play solution for network access.
Innovation Solution
A method that establishes a physical communication channel between an access node and a configuration device, providing a public or private IP address and assigning a configuration and installation functionality level, allowing secure communication without the need for pre-configured credentials, using network port identification information for authentication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If pre-configured credentials are distributed to customers for network access, then authentication can be performed, but the process becomes time-consuming and insecure due to distribution in untrusted environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the authentication mechanism from the traditional credential distribution model. Instead of distributing credentials to customers, the system uses the customer's existing device identifier (MAC address, serial number, or unique identifier) as the authentication key. This eliminates the need for secure credential distribution while maintaining authentication functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service authentication by automatically using the customer's device identifier to authenticate and provision services. The customer's device itself serves as the authentication carrier, eliminating the need for manual credential input or distribution. The system automatically performs authentication and service provisioning without requiring customer intervention.
2Reliability
If traditional authentication methods are used, then network access can be controlled, but the process becomes complex and requires logistical effort for credential distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex credential distribution and management system from the authentication process. By using the customer's existing device identifier (MAC address, serial number, or unique identifier already present in the device), the system eliminates the need for separate authentication credential distribution and management infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The device identifier serves multiple functions: it acts as both the authentication key and the service provisioning identifier. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate authentication mechanisms and simplifies the overall system architecture by combining authentication and provisioning functions.
3Ease of operation
If polling systems are used for network access, then connection management is possible, but network access is restricted during certain time periods
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous self-service network access by automatically authenticating customers based on their device identifiers without requiring polling cycles. The authentication and service provisioning occurs automatically in the background, eliminating the need for scheduled polling periods and providing uninterrupted access.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for efficient initialization of a telecommunications network includes: establishing a physical communication channel between an access node of the telecommunications network and a configuration device; providing, by the telecommunications network, via an Internet Protocol Edge node, a public or private Internet Protocol address to the configuration device for use by the configuration device to communicate with the Internet Protocol Edge node of the telecommunications network; and assigning, by the telecommunications network, a configuration and installation functionality level to the public or private Internet Protocol address.