Radio Tethering for Secure Software Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The traditional method of physically distributing unreleased software applications to remote evaluators is slow, cumbersome, and expensive, and restricts the evaluation process by securing computing systems to fixed locations, hindering the freedom of movement needed for enhanced game experiences.
Innovation Solution
Implementing radio tethering using a tethering station and wireless storage devices that communicate over a radio link, enabling secure distribution and access control through pairing, encryption, and signal strength verification, allowing flexible placement of the tethering station and wireless storage devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical distribution of software applications is used to maintain security, then security is improved, but distribution speed and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical cartridge distribution with an electronic/digital system. Software applications are distributed electronically to wireless storage devices, which can then be accessed by computing systems without requiring physical transport of storage media. This substitution maintains security through electronic access control while dramatically improving distribution speed and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies of software applications that can be distributed electronically to multiple wireless storage devices simultaneously. Instead of physically transporting single copies of cartridges, the system generates and distributes digital copies over networks or wireless connections, enabling rapid replication and distribution while maintaining security through access control mechanisms.
2Reliability
If computing systems are physically secured to fixed locations, then security is improved, but freedom of movement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical constraint of physically securing computing systems to desks or floors with an electronic access control system. Wireless storage devices can be accessed by authorized computing systems within a permitted area through radio frequency authentication, eliminating the need for physical anchoring while maintaining security. This allows computing systems and storage devices to be moved freely within the authorized zone.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic access control where the system continuously monitors and verifies the location and authorization of computing systems and wireless storage devices. Rather than static physical constraints, the system dynamically adjusts access permissions based on real-time authentication, allowing movement within permitted areas while maintaining security boundaries.
3Reliability
If physical distribution methods are used for each evaluator, then security is maintained, but labor and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal distribution system where a single electronic distribution infrastructure serves multiple evaluators simultaneously. The system can authenticate and distribute software to numerous wireless storage devices and computing systems through a common network or wireless network, eliminating the need for separate physical distribution trips to each evaluator's location. This multi-functional approach maintains security while dramatically reducing labor time and costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-service distribution model where authorized evaluators can independently access and receive software applications through their authenticated computing systems and wireless storage devices. The automatic authentication and electronic distribution processes eliminate the need for manual physical distribution by staff members to each evaluator, allowing evaluators to self-serve while security is maintained through automated access control.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for restricting access to sensitive application(s) or data to a limited physical area are disclosed. Various embodiments are described in which a tethering station and a wireless storage controller communicate with each other over a radio link. The tethering station can be secured such that the tethering station's location restricts the range within which the wireless storage controller is allowed to enable access to a mobile storage controlled by the wireless storage controller. This restricts access to the application and/or the application stored in the mobile storage to a limited area through radio tethering.