Push Button Configuration Pairing in MoCA Networks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing Multimedia over Coax Alliance (MoCA) standard lacks features for simplified device configuration, requiring complex processes and substantial user time for pairing new devices with networks, especially since it does not natively support push button pairing methods.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a push button configuration process in MoCA networks using public key exchange and shared secret key derivation between nodes to establish a protected channel for exchanging configuration parameters and privacy credentials, allowing for simplified device pairing without requiring MoCA protocol layer modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional MoCA configuration methods are used, then device pairing can be achieved, but the configuration process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-generating configuration tokens and establishing cryptographic key pairs before the actual device pairing occurs. When a user initiates pairing by pressing a button, the pre-prepared credentials are immediately exchanged, eliminating the need for complex real-time configuration procedures and significantly reducing setup time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces configuration tokens and cryptographic intermediaries that mediate the pairing process between devices. Instead of directly exchanging complex network credentials, devices use these intermediary elements to establish secure connections, simplifying the user interaction while maintaining security.
2Ease of operation
If push button pairing is implemented in MoCA networks, then configuration simplicity is improved, but native MoCA protocol support is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal push-button pairing mechanism that works across different MoCA devices and network configurations. The configuration token exchange protocol is designed to be protocol-agnostic, allowing the same simplified pairing approach to function whether devices are using MoCA 1.0, 2.0, or other variants, thereby achieving multi-functionality without requiring device-specific implementations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables devices to perform self-configuration through automatic token exchange and credential verification. When the push button is pressed, the devices autonomously complete the pairing process by exchanging configuration tokens and establishing secure channels without requiring user intervention or complex manual configuration, making the system self-sufficient.
3Reliability
If configuration tokens are exchanged between devices, then secure pairing is achieved, but additional security protocols are required
Solution Approach 1:
Cryptographic key pairs and configuration tokens are generated and prepared in advance before the pairing process. This preliminary cryptographic setup allows devices to securely authenticate each other during the push-button pairing without requiring complex real-time security negotiations, as the security credentials are already established and ready for immediate exchange.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and devices for pairing devices in a wired network are provided. One method includes receiving configuration request signals at multiple devices. The method further includes exchanging public keys between two devices, generating a shared key using the public keys, determining a protected channel key using the shared key, and establishing a protected channel between the devices using the protected channel key. The method further includes transferring privacy credentials from one device to the other using the protected channel and using the privacy credentials to pair another device to the network.