USB Network Card Driver Auto-Install for Offline Local Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
In environments where IT is managed by different parties, setting up a local area network between devices from different operators is complex and costly, often requiring specialized personnel and not allowing offline operation, as existing solutions necessitate separate network cards and software installations, posing security risks and requiring internet connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A device with integrated network cards and a USB connection that allows an external device to automatically recognize and install a driver for a second network card, enabling the setup of a local network without the need for separate preparation or own network cards, using a setup program and memory to configure the network and provide remote access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a web service hosted by a secure central server is used to connect existing retail computer to another company's services, then security risks are reduced, but the configuration becomes complex and costly requiring specialized personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a portable device as an intermediary between the external device and the secure server. This portable device contains a virtual machine with the required software, acting as a mediator that eliminates the need for direct software installation on the retail computer while maintaining security. The portable device bridges the gap between security requirements and ease of configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable device is designed to be self-configuring through automatic driver installation and recognition mechanisms. When connected via USB, the external device automatically detects the portable device and installs necessary drivers without requiring specialized personnel. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex manual configuration while maintaining security through the virtual machine architecture.
2Reliability
If a web service hosted by a secure central server is used, then security is improved, but offline operation is not allowed as Internet access is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into two independent components: the portable device containing the virtual machine with offline capabilities, and the external device providing the interface. This segmentation allows the portable device to operate independently offline while the external device handles connectivity when available, providing both security and offline operation capability simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes its operational parameters based on availability. When the external device is connected, the system operates in online mode with enhanced security. When disconnected, it seamlessly transitions to offline mode using the portable device's local resources. This parameter change capability allows the system to maintain security while adapting to offline conditions.
3Reliability
If two complete computer systems with peripherals are operated to ensure uninterrupted operation, then reliability is improved, but costs and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The portable device is designed as a universal solution that can be connected to multiple different external devices (retail computers, workstations, etc.). This single portable device replaces the need for multiple complete computer systems, providing the required functionality across different platforms without requiring duplicate hardware for each location.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual machine is nested within the portable device, which in turn connects to the external device. This nested architecture allows the lightweight portable device to contain the full functionality of a complete computer system with software and peripherals, eliminating the need for separate full-sized systems while maintaining all required capabilities.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The invention relates to a device comprising a first integrated network card (105), a second integrated network card (106), a memory (103), which stores a driver for the second network card (106) and a setup program, and a USB connection (107), connected internally to the second integrated network card (106) and to the memory (103). The setup program is configured, upon execution by a processor (201) of an external device (200) connected to the device (100) via the USB connection (107), to prompt the external device (200) to install the driver for the second network card (106) in the external device (200). A system comprises such a device (100) and the external device (200). The invention further relates to a method for corresponding installation of the driver.