Communication Network Joining With Challenge-Response MitM Verification

The patent applies preliminary action by performing authentication and verification of security capabilities during the initial network access phase, before any sensitive communication occurs. The UE verifies the network's security capabilities and authenticates network components (gNBs, repeaters) before establishing secure communication channels, preventing MitM attacks from the outset rather than adding complex ongoing verification mechanisms

The patent introduces an intermediary verification mechanism where the UE actively verifies security capabilities and authentication information exchanged between network components. This intermediary verification layer checks whether gNBs and repeaters are properly authenticated and whether security capabilities match expected values, adding security without requiring complete protocol redesign

The patent merges the security capabilities verification process with the existing authentication phase. Instead of adding a separate verification step, the UE performs security capability checks, network component authentication, and identifier verification all within the standard authentication procedure flow. This combines multiple security functions into one unified process, avoiding time penalties from sequential operations

The patent ensures continuity by making security verification an integrated part of the authentication flow rather than an interrupting step. The UE continuously verifies security capabilities and authentication information throughout the authentication process, maintaining the natural progression of the protocol while embedding security checks that prevent MitM attacks without causing delays