Network Node Server Wireless LAN Network Name Provisioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no defined method for a non-3GPP access network node to indicate its network name to a mobile terminal in scenarios where the network node is connected to the Evolved Packet Core (EPC), such as in HotSpot2.0 access, leading to inconsistencies in network name information provided to users during roaming.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced where a network node in a wireless local area network establishes a connection with a mobile terminal, requests and receives identity information, determines AAA information, and sends network names corresponding to available PLMNs to the mobile terminal, allowing for authentication and displaying of network names, including full and short names, through specific authentication and key exchange messages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a non-3GPP access network node is connected to EPC without a defined method to indicate network name, then the network can provide access services, but the network name information provided to users becomes inconsistent and inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where the network node uses existing authentication messages (EAP-AKA', IKE_AUTH) as carriers to transmit network name information. The AAA server acts as an intermediary that generates and forwards the network name to the network node, which then includes it in authentication responses to the mobile terminal, resolving the information transmission problem without requiring a completely new protocol
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes existing authentication messages serve multiple functions: they not only perform their original authentication purpose but also carry network name information. The EAP-AKA' and IKE_AUTH messages are extended to include network name fields, allowing a single message to accomplish both authentication and information delivery tasks
2Loss of information
If network name information is not provided in non-3GPP access, then the authentication protocol remains simple, but user awareness of network status during roaming is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The network name information is delivered to the mobile terminal in advance during the authentication phase, before the user establishes data connectivity. This preliminary delivery ensures the user has network status information ready when accessing the network, improving awareness without complicating the user interface during actual data usage
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of operating a network node in a wireless local area network, a mobile terminal and a server, respectively, are disclosed. Corresponding computer programs, as well as a network node, a mobile terminal and a server are also disclosed. The network node establishes connection with the mobile terminal; and sends at least one network name to the mobile terminal, wherein the at least one network names correspond to possible public land mobile networks, PLMNs, based on the determined AAA information. The mobile terminal can thus display the network name.