Social Graph Authorization for Network Device Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network-enabled devices lack secure and efficient methods for user authentication and authorization, especially during the initial setup process, and do not effectively leverage social networking information for inter-device connectivity and control.
Innovation Solution
A network-enabled device is securely associated with a user through a process involving authentication with a personal device, cloud connectivity, and social networking integration, allowing for intelligent operation and remote control, with authorization levels based on social graph information for access and control permissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional authentication methods are used for device setup, then the authentication process is simple, but security is compromised and social networking capabilities cannot be integrated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a social networking system as an intermediary between the new device and the user's personal device. This mediator facilitates secure authentication by verifying the user's identity through their social network profile and relationships, thereby enhancing security without requiring complex manual authentication procedures from the user
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the social networking system continuously verifies and updates authorization levels based on the user's social graph information. This allows the authentication process to adapt dynamically, maintaining security while simplifying the user experience through automated decision-making
2Adaptability or versatility
If devices are isolated without social networking integration, then device security is maintained through isolation, but inter-device connectivity and control capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing differentiated authorization levels for different devices and users within the network. Instead of uniform access control, the system grants specific permissions based on social relationship strength and device trust levels, allowing secure connectivity while maintaining appropriate security boundaries for each device interaction
Solution Approach 2:
The authorization framework is dynamic, automatically adjusting access permissions based on real-time social networking data and device behavior. This allows the system to adapt connectivity permissions dynamically, enabling versatile inter-device communication while maintaining security through continuous evaluation of trust relationships
3Productivity
If manual configuration is required for device association, then security control is maintained, but setup time and user effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing the user's social network profile and authorization framework before device association is needed. When a new device is introduced, the system can quickly associate it by leveraging pre-computed social graph information and pre-approved authorization levels, dramatically reducing setup time and effort
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication and authorization process is designed to be self-service, where the system automatically completes device association using the user's social networking information without requiring manual intervention. The social networking system autonomously verifies identities and establishes connections, making the process both fast and easy while maintaining security
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method includes analyzing information received from a first network-enabled device to identify instructions for a second network-enabled device associated with a second user of a social-networking system, the first network-enabled device being associated with a first user of the social-networking system. The method also includes determining (1) that the first user is connected to the second user with respect to a social graph of the social-networking system and (2) that the first user has authorization to provide instructions to the second network-enabled device, where the authorization is based on social-networking information. The method further includes providing the instructions to the second network-enabled device.