SIM-less OTA User Authentication and Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The traditional SIM card-based user authentication and network registration method is becoming increasingly challenging due to technological evolution, necessitating a change in user authentication and network connectivity methods.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves over-the-air (OTA) user network authentication and registration without a SIM card, where a user device transmits first-time registration parameters to a service provider, establishing a secure channel for captive environment setup, and storing permanent user profile parameters, using temporary session parameters and keys for validation and authentication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If SIM card-based authentication is used, then user authentication reliability is ensured, but device complexity and manufacturing constraints increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the authentication function from the physical SIM card and relocates it to the device's internal memory or secure element. This allows the device to perform SIM-like authentication functions without requiring a removable SIM card, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining authentication reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal authentication mechanism that can work across different device types and network operators without requiring specific SIM card hardware. The authentication credentials are stored and managed within the device itself, enabling the same device to authenticate with multiple networks, thus reducing manufacturing constraints and improving versatility.
2Reliability
If SIM card-based registration is used, then network security is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to SIM insertion requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the physical SIM card insertion step from the user操作流程 by storing authentication credentials directly in the device's internal storage or secure element. Users no longer need to physically insert or eject SIM cards, significantly improving ease of operation while the same authentication mechanisms maintain network security.
Solution Approach 2:
The device automatically manages authentication credentials and performs registration procedures without requiring manual SIM card handling by the user. The system self-configures and self-authenticates, eliminating the need for users to physically interact with SIM cards while maintaining secure network access.
3Reliability
If traditional SIM-based method is used, then authentication security is ensured, but adaptability to new technologies deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic authentication architecture where credentials can be remotely provisioned, updated, and managed without physical SIM card changes. The device can adapt to different network operators and service plans by receiving updated authentication data over-the-air, providing both security and technological adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables changes in authentication parameters (such as IMSI, authentication keys, and service profiles) to be made remotely and dynamically without requiring physical SIM card replacement. This allows the system to adapt to new technologies, network operators, and service requirements while maintaining authentication security through cryptographic protection of the changed parameters.
Data Source
AI summary
In a preferred aspect of the present invention there is disclosed method of authentication and over-the-air (OTA) registration of a new user without a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, comprising the steps of transmitting a set of first time registration parameters to a selected service provider by a user device. In response the user device receives a notification to initiate a captive environment for the new user registration. The service provider is provided with a set of temporary session parameters and a temporary key which then validates a set of registration parameters provided by the user. Subsequently storing, at the user device, a set of permanent user profile parameters in a user profile module.