Remote Configuration Server for Subscriber Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Network service providers face challenges in configuring computing devices for subscribers, as existing methods are complex and time-consuming, especially for lay users, and configuration data is not reusable or remotely accessible.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for remote device configuration, where a computer, such as a server, provides configuration options to a first computing device, which receives and associates security identifiers with configuration data for a second computing device, enabling remote configuration and storage, allowing the second device to configure itself upon receiving the data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a subscriber configures a computing device manually through set-up wizards, then the device can be configured to operate on the network, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming for lay users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring device settings, network parameters, and application data before the device is activated or before the user needs it. Configuration data is prepared in advance and stored remotely, so when the device is ready to use, the configuration is automatically applied without requiring the user to perform manual setup tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a configuration server as a mediator between the user and the device configuration process. The server handles the complex configuration tasks, stores configuration data, and automatically applies settings to the device, eliminating the need for users to directly perform complex configuration operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If configuration data is stored locally on the computing device, then the device can use the settings, but the configuration cannot be remotely accessed or reused for other devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a configuration system that serves multiple functions: storing configuration data, managing security identifiers, enabling remote access, and supporting multiple devices. The configuration server can store configuration data that can be reused across different devices and accessed remotely, making the system versatile rather than device-specific.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from local-only storage to remote cloud-based storage, adding a new dimension of accessibility. Configuration data is no longer confined to a single device but is stored in a remote server, enabling access from multiple devices and locations, thus expanding the system from one-dimensional local storage to multi-dimensional remote accessibility.
3Ease of operation
If device configuration is performed manually by subscribers, then the device can be customized, but the process remains difficult to perform on smaller devices with limited interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex configuration process from the small device itself and moves it to a remote server. The small device only needs to receive and apply configuration data, while the complex tasks of configuration management, data storage, and security handling are extracted and performed remotely, making the process feasible on devices with limited interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by enabling devices to automatically receive and apply configuration data without requiring complex manual intervention. The system autonomously handles configuration deployment, reducing the burden on users of small devices who may have difficulty navigating complex setup procedures on limited interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for remote device configuration is provided. In one embodiment, a method comprises outputting, from a computer, to a first computing device, configuration options for a second computing device; receiving, at the computer, from the first computing device, configuration data associated with the configuration options for the second computing device; associating a first security identifier with the configuration data for the second computing device; and in response to a request for the configuration data for the second computing device, outputting, from the computer, to the second computing device, the configuration data for the second computing device.