Proxy Host Devices for Remote VPN Network Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile applications experience failures and adverse user experiences due to variable network conditions, and existing testing methods are either costly or lack fidelity to real-world conditions, making it difficult to effectively test and optimize application performance across different geographic locations and network types.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing proxy host devices and proxy access devices connected via virtual private networks (VPNs) allows for remote testing of applications by redirecting traffic through geographically diverse networks, enabling the collection of performance data without physically moving test devices, and includes an intermediary module to detect and mitigate potential VPN connection errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If physical relocation of test devices is used to test applications across different geographic locations, then testing fidelity to real-world conditions is improved, but cost and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces proxy access devices as intermediaries that physically access networks at different locations while the test device remains stationary. These proxy devices establish VPN connections to simulate various network conditions and geographic locations, enabling the test device to remotely evaluate application performance without physical relocation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual copies of network conditions and geographic locations through VPN tunnels. By establishing virtual private networks that replicate different network environments (different ISPs, network topologies, geographic locations), the system allows the test device to experience diverse network conditions without physically moving to those locations.
2Productivity
If VPN connections are used for remote testing, then testing cost is reduced and efficiency is improved, but VPN connection errors may occur and compromise test reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the intermediary module monitors VPN connection status and communicates with the management server. When VPN connection errors are detected, the system receives feedback about the connection state and can take corrective actions, such as re-establishing connections or adjusting test parameters to maintain test reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent prepares for potential VPN connection failures by implementing error detection and mitigation mechanisms in advance. The intermediary module is configured to detect VPN errors and the system has predetermined procedures to handle such scenarios, cushioning against the impact of connection failures on test reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If VPN traffic is redirected through proxy devices, then network condition testing is enabled, but unnecessary traffic may be generated and consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and separates testing traffic from normal application traffic by routing test requests through the proxy access devices and VPN connections. This allows the system to test network conditions without requiring the actual application data to traverse the entire network path, reducing unnecessary traffic consumption while still enabling comprehensive network condition testing.
Data Source
AI summary
Mobile devices executing applications utilize data services worldwide. Testing of the applications for networking issues is facilitated by utilizing a test network having proxy devices placed at different physical locations. A tester may use the test network to direct traffic to and from an application under test to one of the proxy devices. Using the proxy device, the traffic is then exchanged with a real-world network, such as a cellular data network, at the different locations. The tester may thus test operation of the application under test in real-world conditions at a variety of different physical locations. The system may include a proxy host device with an intermediate module to establish Virtual Private Network (VPN) connections and to capture VPN data, including VPN protocol data, session data, and other data. The VPN data may be provided to a network system to analyze performance of an application under test.