Plug and Play VPN Hardware for Non-Routable Device Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network access solutions require administrative complexity and dedicated host software to connect to remote devices with non-routable IP addresses, posing challenges in simplicity, security, and cost, especially when multiple networks are interconnected.
Innovation Solution
A 'plug and play' system utilizing a VPN tunnel with a hardware device that automatically configures connections without pre-administrative setup, employing encryption and NAT to provide secure, low-overhead access to remote devices, allowing multiple devices to connect across networks without requiring dedicated host software or administrative privileges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated host software is installed to provide remote network access, then access capability is improved, but device complexity and administrative burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through automated peer-to-peer connection establishment between network devices. The software automatically discovers available devices, negotiates connections, and configures network parameters without requiring manual administrative setup. This eliminates the need for administrators to manually configure dedicated host software on each device, thereby reducing administrative complexity while maintaining remote access capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a service discovery mechanism that acts as an intermediary to facilitate connections between devices. Instead of requiring direct configuration between peer devices, the system uses a centralized service registry that enables automatic device discovery and connection establishment, simplifying the overall system complexity while enabling versatile remote access.
2Reliability
If network filtering devices are deployed to limit access and improve security, then security is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements security at the local device level rather than requiring centralized filtering infrastructure. Each device independently establishes secure peer-to-peer connections using encrypted communication channels. This distributes security functionality locally, improving network security without requiring additional filtering devices or increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces physical filtering devices with software-based encryption and authentication mechanisms. Instead of deploying hardware filtering appliances that add complexity to the network infrastructure, the system uses cryptographic protocols implemented in software to provide security, thereby maintaining security while reducing device complexity and cost.
3Reliability
If administrators manually configure network access settings, then connection reliability is improved, but loss of time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring devices with unique identifiers and cryptographic credentials during manufacturing or initial setup. When a device needs to connect to the network, it automatically uses these pre-configured parameters to establish secure connections without requiring real-time administrative configuration. This maintains connection reliability through pre-validated security settings while eliminating time-consuming manual setup.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements automated feedback mechanisms where devices continuously report their status, available services, and connection requirements to the network. The system automatically processes this feedback information and configures connections based on current network conditions and device capabilities, ensuring reliable connections are established quickly without manual administrative intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, and system are described that provides fully automated network access to remote networked devices. The device and system permits the remote access of a local network without any pre-configuration or administrative burden at the local network. Embodiments as described herein provide a “plug and play” option to insert a device into the local network and provide access to select target devices on the network, even non-routable devices, without first requiring dedicated host software or other administrative privileges or configurations be set at the local network.