Universal Generic Identification for Network Service Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional network communication systems face challenges in identifying end users without compromising system performance, as inserted network equipment can slow down communications and cause compatibility issues with downstream devices.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a universal generic identification (UGI) to enable service delivery across different networks, allowing multiple devices to receive information from communication flows without burdening the overall system, and using ID servers for billing and authentication, facilitating flexible business models and international roaming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If network equipment is inserted into the communication pathway to identify end users, then the ability to identify end users is improved, but the overall network communication speed deteriorates because the communication flow needs to be received and retransmitted at each piece of equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the identification function from the communication pathway by using out-of-band signaling. Instead of inserting equipment into the data flow path, the system uses separate identification channels (such as RADIUS protocols over IP networks) to convey user identity information. This separation allows data traffic to flow uninterrupted while identification occurs through a parallel mechanism, thus maintaining high communication speed while achieving accurate end user identification.
2Extent of automation
If network equipment is inserted into the communication pathway to process information, then the ability to process communication flow information is improved, but compatibility problems arise with downstream devices due to format changes and encryption/decryption requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary identification system that acts as a mediator between the communication flow and processing equipment. By using standardized identification protocols (such as RADIUS) that operate independently of data formats and encryption schemes, the system enables processing equipment to obtain user identity information without needing to intercept, decrypt, or modify the actual communication data. This intermediary approach maintains compatibility across diverse downstream devices while enabling automated information processing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pieces of network equipment are inserted into the communication pathway to provide identification and processing services, then the service capability is improved, but the system complexity increases and fault tolerance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal identification architecture where a single RADIUS server can serve multiple networks and functions. The system uses standardized protocols that allow one identification infrastructure to support various service types (authentication, authorization, accounting, billing) across different network domains. This multi-functional approach reduces the need for multiple specialized equipment pieces, thereby lowering system complexity while maintaining versatile service capabilities and improving fault tolerance through centralized management.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for distributing information in a network environment is provided that includes receiving one or more packets from a communication flow and recognizing a universal generic identification (UGI) associated with the communication flow. The UGI corresponds to an end user that is associated with the communication flow. The UGI is operable to enable a service for the end user in a first network and a second network, the first and second networks being different, whereby either the first network or the second network operates as a home network for the end user.