Non-persistent Network Manager Mode for Privacy Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computing devices with network connectivity leave trace information that can compromise user privacy, such as geographical location and timestamp data, which is undesirable and difficult to protect using existing methods like manual deletion of system logs or disabling network connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A non-persistent mode for the network manager that prevents information revealing network connections from being stored in persistent memory, allowing users to opt for storing such information in non-persistent memory or deleting it entirely, thereby enhancing privacy by preventing permanent tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If network connectivity is enabled and the device connects to available networks, then network communication functionality is improved, but trace information (geographical location, timestamps, network addresses) is stored in persistent memory causing privacy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the memory storage system into persistent memory and volatile memory components. The network manager is configured to store network connection information, geographical location data, and timestamps in volatile memory temporarily, then automatically delete this information after a predetermined period or upon device reboot, preventing permanent privacy-compromising storage while maintaining network functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the storage duration parameter from indefinite (persistent) to temporary (volatile with predetermined deletion timing). By modifying how long network trace information is retained in memory - specifically implementing automatic deletion after a set time period or system reboot - the system maintains network communication capabilities while eliminating permanent privacy risks.
2Loss of information
If manual methods are used to delete system logs or disable network connectivity to protect privacy, then privacy protection is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to the need for continuous user intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality where the network manager automatically manages network connection information without requiring user intervention. The system autonomously stores network data in volatile memory, tracks connection information, and automatically deletes this information after a predetermined period or upon reboot, eliminating the need for users to manually delete logs or constantly monitor privacy settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the network manager with automatic deletion policies before network connections occur. The system is set up in advance to automatically erase network trace information after specific time intervals or events, so users don't need to take any action during or after network usage to protect their privacy.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for enhanced network connection privacy. An example method may comprise: receiving a selection to activate a non-persistent mode for a network manager of a client device, the non-persistent mode preventing tracking of network locations accessed by the client device; activating the non-persistent mode for the network manager; and while the non-persistent mode is activated for the network manager: receiving a request to connect to a network; and performing, via the network manager, a set of operations to establish a connection with the network, the set of operations excluding storing information revealing the network connection in persistent memory of the client device.