SOAP-XML Credential Provisioning for Secure Wi-Fi Hotspot Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of establishing Wi-Fi network access through subscription with service providers is not user-friendly, lacks standardization, and poses security risks due to varying credential types and network security levels, with current online sign-up mechanisms exposing users to security threats.
Innovation Solution
Implementing SOAP-XML techniques for secure online sign-up and provisioning of credentials, allowing for standardized processes applicable to both open and secure networks, including username/password, SIM-type, and certificate-based credentials, using a mobile device configured with SOAP processing elements to exchange messages with a subscription server for secure credential provisioning and remediation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current online sign-up mechanisms are used, then users can establish subscription with service providers, but users are exposed to security risks such as credit card and personal information theft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a SOAP-XML based intermediary communication layer between the mobile device and subscription server. This standardized protocol acts as a mediator that securely transmits credential provisioning information without exposing users to direct security risks from various web pages and sign-up mechanisms. The intermediary layer encrypts and standardizes data exchange, preventing information theft while maintaining reliable subscription establishment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different types of credentials are supported (certificate-based, username/password, SIM-type), then the system becomes more versatile, but the process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal SOAP-XML based provisioning framework that can handle multiple credential types (certificate-based, username/password, SIM-type) through a single standardized interface. The mobile device includes a unified credential provisioning module that processes all credential types using the same SOAP-XML communication protocol, eliminating the need for separate complex processes for each credential type while maintaining full versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter-based differentiation within the unified SOAP-XML framework. Different credential types are distinguished by specific parameters and tags within the standardized XML messages (e.g., different credentialType values, specific element structures). This allows the system to support multiple credential types by changing message parameters rather than changing the fundamental communication process, thereby reducing complexity.
3Ease of operation
If a standardized process is implemented for secure online sign-up, then user-friendliness and security improve, but compatibility with legacy networks may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary credential provisioning and authentication through SOAP-XML exchanges before the actual network connection is established. The mobile device pre-configures credentials and receives provisioning information in advance through the standardized protocol, so that when connecting to legacy networks, the credentials are already ready and the connection process is simplified and secure without requiring real-time standardized processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic credential provisioning system that adapts the SOAP-XML process based on the target network type. For legacy networks, the system dynamically adjusts the provisioning parameters and credential formats while maintaining the standardized SOAP-XML communication framework. This dynamic adaptation ensures both user-friendliness through standardization and compatibility with legacy networks through flexible parameter adjustment.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of a mobile device and method for secure on-line sign-up and provisioning of credential for Wi-Fi hotspots using SOAP-XML techniques are generally described herein. Techniques for subscription remediation using SOAP-XML techniques are also generally described herein. In some embodiments, the mobile device may be configured to establish a transport-layer security (TLS) session with a sign-up server through a Wi-Fi Hotspot to receive a certificate of the sign-up server. When the certificate is validated, the mobile device may be configured to exchange device management messages with the sign-up server to sign-up for a Wi-Fi subscription and provisioning of credentials, and retrieve a subscription management object (MO) that includes a reference to the provisioned credentials for storage in a device management tree.