Policy Manager Network Node Usage Threshold Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication networks limit user access when network usage thresholds are reached, preventing access to certain services even when critical applications like video streaming are desired, leading to a need for application assurance that allows continued access to specific services independent of usage limits.
Innovation Solution
A method implemented by a policy manager network node that receives accounting threshold information, measures network usage, and sends a change of authorization message to limit one type of network access while allowing another type to continue, using a RADIUS server, DHCP server, and policy manager to manage user access and redirect users as necessary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If network access is limited when usage threshold is reached, then network usage control is improved, but application continuity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network access into different types (first type limited, second type continued) based on application profiles. When usage threshold is reached, the system selectively limits specific access types while allowing others to continue, rather than applying a blanket limitation. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling granular control over different applications and services.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts network access authorization based on real-time usage measurements and application profiles. The change of authorization message dynamically modifies access permissions without completely terminating the session, allowing the system to adaptively control network usage while maintaining critical applications. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction between usage control and application continuity.
2Ease of operation
If user is redirected when usage limit is reached, then network provider control is improved, but user convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an intermediary change of authorization message mechanism that mediates between the network provider's control requirements and user convenience. Instead of direct redirection, the policy manager sends authorization changes that selectively limit access types while maintaining session continuity. This intermediary approach simplifies user interaction while preserving provider control capabilities.
3Productivity
If complete access termination is applied when threshold exceeded, then network usage limitation is improved, but service quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating between first type and second type network access. Instead of applying uniform limitation across all services, the system applies different authorization rules to different access types based on application profiles. Critical applications maintain higher service quality while non-critical applications are limited, resolving the contradiction between usage limitation and service quality.
Data Source
AI summary
Various exemplary embodiments relate to a method performed by a policy manager network node in a network, the method including: receiving accounting threshold information relating to an access session associated with an access node; receiving accounting network usage measurement message relating to the access session; determining that a total network usage of the access session exceeds a threshold; and sending a change of authorization message to the access node, wherein the change of authorization message limits a first type of network access, redirects a user of the access node, and allows a second type of network access to continue.