Smart NAT Selection via UE Configuration Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network address translation (NAT) selection methods in mobile networks are inflexible and fail to accommodate changes in user equipment (UE) capabilities, leading to suboptimal access configurations.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a configuration file with network access requests that allows user equipment (UE) to dynamically select the most appropriate NAT based on its capabilities, rather than relying on hardcoded settings at the network provider side.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hardcoded NAT selection configurations are used at the network provider side, then the network provider can maintain simple and stable NAT assignment, but the system cannot adapt to changes in UE capabilities leading to suboptimal access configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional NAT selection approach by moving the decision-making authority from the network provider side to the UE side. Instead of the network provider assigning NAT based on hardcoded configurations, the UE autonomously selects NAT from available options based on its own capability assessment, thereby achieving adaptability without increasing network-side complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The UE performs self-service by autonomously evaluating its own capabilities and selecting the most appropriate NAT configuration from available options. The UE attaches its capability information to the access request and makes the final decision on NAT selection, eliminating the need for complex network-side configuration management while maintaining adaptability
2Ease of operation
If the network provider uses hardcoded MCC/MNC configurations, then the network provider can maintain simple access control, but the UE cannot select more appropriate NAT options even when other access configurations are better suited
Solution Approach 1:
The UE performs preliminary action by attaching its capability information to the access request before network-side NAT assignment. This allows the network provider to have simple hardcoded configurations while the UE has already prepared and communicated its capabilities, enabling subsequent optimal NAT selection based on matched criteria
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by having the UE attach its capability information to the access request, allowing the network provider to use this information in NAT selection. The UE's capabilities are fed back to the network side, enabling the network to make informed decisions while maintaining simple hardcoded configuration structures
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for a device-based smart NAT selection. A method includes receiving a request from a user equipment (UE) for access to a mobile network. The method further identifies a configuration profile embedded in the request from the UE. In response to identifying, the mobile network identifies a plurality of connection preferences in the configuration profile. The method further enables the mobile network to select one of the plurality of the connection preferences for accessing the mobile network by the UE. The method further connects the UE to the mobile network according to the selected one of the connection preferences.