Terminal Device Initial Cellular Connectivity via eUICC Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for providing initial cellular network connectivity to devices, especially those using 3GPP radio access technology, face challenges as they require prior network subscription and additional radio access technologies for profile download, adding complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that enables terminal devices to obtain initial cellular network connectivity by obtaining an activation code and MNO-specific information, allowing wireless authentication with an MNO node using this information, thereby facilitating profile download without prior subscription or additional radio access technologies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the device uses a 3GPP radio access technology for profile download, then the device can use standard cellular connectivity, but the device requires prior network subscription and additional radio access technologies (like WiFi) which adds complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the device with an eUICC and pre-provisioning the necessary authentication credentials and network parameters before the actual profile download. The device is prepared in advance with the eUICC containing the necessary security elements and network selection parameters, so that when initial connectivity is needed, the device can immediately authenticate with the MNO node using pre-stored credentials without requiring additional radio access technologies or complex configuration.
2Reliability
If the device obtains initial connectivity through additional radio access technologies (WiFi), then the device can download the profile, but the device requires configuration for multiple radio access technologies which increases complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the eUICC to serve multiple functions: it provides both the subscription identification (IMSI) and the authentication credentials for the MNO node, and it stores network selection parameters that enable the device to use 3GPP radio access technology for initial connectivity. This multi-functional eUICC eliminates the need for separate WiFi configuration and multiple radio access technology stacks, as the single eUICC-based authentication mechanism works universally for the initial profile download scenario.
3Reliability
If the device uses prior network subscription for profile download, then the device can authenticate with the MNO, but the device cannot obtain initial connectivity without existing subscription information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-provisioning the eUICC with authentication credentials and network parameters during device manufacturing or initial setup. The eUICC is pre-loaded with the necessary security elements and network selection parameters, enabling the device to authenticate with the MNO node for initial connectivity without requiring the end user to provide subscription information manually. This pre-configuration simplifies device provisioning while maintaining secure authentication.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided mechanisms for obtaining initial cellular network connectivity. A method is performed by a terminal device. The method comprises obtaining an activation code for a network subscription and MNO specific information. The method comprises identifying at least one MNO from the MNO specific information. The method comprises wirelessly authenticating with an MNO node of one of the at least one identified MNO by using the MNO specific information to obtain the initial cellular network connectivity.