VPN Gateway Operation Mode Alteration Detector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home network systems in apartment buildings face challenges in implementing logical network separation without disrupting services, as they require replacing existing home servers and wall pads, and simultaneously installing VPN gateways across all households, which is impractical due to high construction costs and coordination difficulties.
Innovation Solution
The method involves installing a VPN server and VPN gateways with an operation mode alteration detector, allowing for the creation of virtual private networks without replacing existing home servers or wall pads, enabling network separation by using existing communication interfaces and TAP interfaces to form VPN tunnels, and prioritizing communication through a back bone gateway, thus allowing for gradual installation and minimizing service disruptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If logical network separation is implemented using VPN technology, then network security is improved, but construction cost increases and existing equipment cannot be used
Solution Approach 1:
The VPN gateway is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in bridge mode to directly connect home network devices to the VPN server, and in tunnel mode to establish VPN tunnels. This multi-functionality allows the same device to serve both as a network bridge and as a VPN client, eliminating the need for separate authentication servers and existing modules, thereby reducing construction costs while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
The VPN gateway acts as an intermediary device between home network devices and the VPN server. It receives packets from home network devices, determines whether to forward them directly or establish a VPN tunnel, and routes them accordingly. This intermediary role enables seamless integration of VPN functionality without requiring replacement of existing home servers or wall pads
2Reliability
If VPN gateways are installed simultaneously in all households, then network separation is achieved, but installation time increases and coordination difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The VPN gateway includes an operation mode alteration detector that dynamically switches between bridge mode and tunnel mode based on real-time network conditions and VPN server status. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to function partially during installation and fully once VPN servers are active, enabling gradual rollout without requiring simultaneous installation across all households
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows preliminary configuration of VPN gateways in bridge mode before VPN servers are fully deployed. Home network devices can be connected and configured in advance, and when VPN servers become available, the gateways automatically transition to tunnel mode. This preliminary action eliminates the need for coordinated simultaneous installation across all households
3Reliability
If existing home servers and wall pads are replaced to implement VPN, then network separation is achieved, but device complexity increases and management becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The VPN gateway is designed as a separate, standalone device that handles all VPN-related functions independently from home servers and wall pads. This segmentation allows existing equipment to remain unchanged while adding VPN capability through a dedicated gateway unit, reducing overall system complexity and simplifying management
Solution Approach 2:
The VPN gateway includes automatic detection and configuration capabilities that allow it to autonomously determine its operating mode, establish connections, and switch between bridge and tunnel modes without manual intervention. This self-service functionality reduces management complexity by eliminating the need for centralized control and coordination during deployment
Data Source
AI summary
A method of installing a home network system applied to an apartment building composed of a plurality of unit spaces includes: providing a home server connected to a network, a plurality of home network devices installed for unit spaces, respectively, a VPN server installed between the home server and the home network devices, and VPN gateways individually installed for the home network devices between the home network devices and the VPN server, wherein the VPN gateways each include a first bridge terminal for communication with a corresponding home network device, a first intermediate communication terminal for communication with the VPN server, and an operation mode alteration detector, and the first bridge terminal includes a first end communication interface and a TAP interface; directly connecting the first end communication interface and the first intermediate communication terminal of the first bridge terminal until receiving a virtual private network start signal from the VPN server or the home server by means of the operation mode alteration detector; and connecting the first TAP interface and the first intermediate communication terminal of the first bridge terminal after receiving a virtual private network start signal from the VPN server or the home server by means of the operation mode alteration detector.