UDP Server Discovery Without DNS in Restricted Client Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In computing environments without DNS support, such as those using the JAVA Card operating system, servers' IP addresses are hardcoded, making it difficult to communicate with the server when the IP address changes or is unknown beforehand.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the transmission of a User Datagram Protocol (UDP) packet with a locating pattern from a SIM card over a wireless cellular network, allowing the monitoring device to detect and forward the server's IP address and port number to the SIM card's applet, enabling communication through subsequent UDP packets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the server's IP address is hardcoded in the client, then the client can communicate with the server, but the system cannot adapt when the IP address changes or is unknown beforehand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a monitoring device as an intermediary between the client and server. The monitoring device intercepts UDP packets, detects locating patterns, extracts the client's IP address and port number, and forwards this information to the server. This intermediary mechanism enables dynamic IP address resolution without requiring DNS support in the client device, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining relatively simple client-side implementation.
2Ease of operation
If DNS translation is used to resolve domain names to IP addresses, then the client can locate the server dynamically, but computing environments like smart card operating systems cannot support this function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the server to perform self-service by automatically obtaining the client's IP address and port number through the monitoring device. Instead of requiring the client to have DNS capabilities or know the server's IP address beforehand, the server actively receives location information pushed by the monitoring device. This approach makes the system compatible with restricted environments like smart card operating systems while maintaining ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the client transmits a UDP packet with a locating pattern, then the server can be located without prior IP knowledge, but the packet must be intercepted and processed by a monitoring device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in UDP packet headers (source IP address, source port number, destination IP address, destination port number) to convey location information. The monitoring device detects these parameter changes and extracts meaningful location data. This approach enables flexible server location without prior IP knowledge while using standard UDP protocol parameters, minimizing the need for complex custom protocols or infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
A client locates a server in a computer network without using the Domain Name System (DNS). The client transmits a request User Datagram Protocol (UDP) packet that includes a locating pattern. Responsive to detecting the locating pattern in the request UDP packet, a monitor that monitors communication of the client informs the server of the Internet Protocol (IP) address and port number of the client. Responsive to receiving the IP address and port number of the client, the server sends the client a response UDP packet that includes the locating pattern and the IP address and port number of the server. The client uses the IP address and port number of the server from the response UDP packet to communicate with the server.