RRC Reestablishment Security Algorithm Selection for LTE-NR Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing communication technologies face backward compatibility issues when new security algorithms are introduced in NR that do not have equivalents in LTE, leading to undefined behaviors and connectivity interruptions during RRC reestablishment, particularly affecting delay-sensitive applications like public safety and URLLC.
Innovation Solution
The communication device determines and uses a suitable LTE security algorithm when performing RRC reestablishment, either by selecting a default, null, or network-indicated algorithm, or by autonomously releasing the RRC connection and initiating a new connection to avoid configuration mismatches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If new security algorithms are introduced in NR without LTE equivalents, then security capabilities are improved, but backward compatibility deteriorates causing undefined behaviors during RRC reestablishment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the security algorithm parameter selection based on the RAT type. When in NR, the UE uses the configured NR security algorithm. When performing RRC reestablishment in LTE, the UE detects the algorithm mismatch and switches to using an LTE-equivalent security algorithm, thus adapting the security parameter to match the current RAT environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic behavior where the UE can switch between different security algorithm selection modes depending on the operational context. The UE dynamically determines whether to use the configured NR algorithm or fall back to LTE-equivalent algorithms based on whether it is performing RRC reestablishment in LTE, allowing flexible adaptation to different scenarios.
2Stability of the object's composition
If UE uses configured NR security algorithm during RRC reestablishment in LTE, then security consistency is maintained, but connectivity stability deteriorates due to configuration mismatches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by having the UE proactively detect the potential algorithm mismatch before it causes connection failure. The UE checks whether the configured security algorithm has an LTE equivalent before performing RRC reestablishment, and if not, it preemptively switches to using the LTE-equivalent algorithm, thus preventing the configuration mismatch from occurring.
3Reliability
If UE autonomously releases RRC connection to avoid mismatch, then connection reliability is improved, but service continuity deteriorates due to reconnection delay
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the UE to self-diagnose the security algorithm compatibility issue and self-correct by autonomously selecting the appropriate LTE-equivalent security algorithm during RRC reestablishment. This self-service capability eliminates the need for network intervention or manual configuration, allowing the UE to maintain reliable connections without unnecessary releases and reconnections.
Data Source
AI summary
A method performed by a communication device configured with a packet data convergence protocol, PDCP, security algorithm associated with a first radio access technology, RAT, includes responsive to the communication device being configured with a first PDCP security algorithm in the first RAT that does not have an equivalent security algorithm in a second RAT, determining a second security algorithm to use when performing radio resource control, RRC, reestablishment with the second RAT. The method includes using the second security algorithm when performing RRC reestablishment with the second RAT.