Proximity-Based Wi-Fi Authentication Profile Sharing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Users face the burden of repeatedly inputting multiple sets of credential information to access various access-restricted computing environments across different devices, such as wireless networks and banking websites, leading to increased complexity and inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
The technology allows users to share authentication profiles between devices, enabling seamless access by generating and transmitting authentication information, such as usernames and passwords, from a trusted device to another, using proximity-based short-range wireless communication or a server, thus eliminating the need for manual input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users manually input credential information for each device, then security is maintained, but user convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the authentication process by separating credential storage (secure enclave on approving device) from credential transmission (to requesting device). This allows security to be maintained through segmented architecture while improving convenience through automated authentication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary approving device that mediates between the user and the requesting device. The approving device verifies user identity and transmits credentials securely, acting as a trusted intermediary that enhances both security and convenience.
2Reliability
If multiple sets of credential information are required for different applications, then security is improved, but complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal authentication system where a single approving device can authenticate users across multiple applications and services. The credential management system provides multi-functional access control, eliminating the need for separate authentication mechanisms for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses credential copying where the approving device securely transmits authentication credentials to the requesting device. This copying mechanism allows the same credentials to be used across multiple applications without requiring users to manually manage separate credential sets.
3Adaptability or versatility
If credential information is stored on multiple devices, then accessibility is improved, but security risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts credential storage from the requesting device and places it in the secure enclave of the approving device. This extraction ensures credentials are not stored on multiple devices simultaneously, maintaining security while allowing controlled access through the approving device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary authentication actions on the approving device before credentials are transmitted. The user's identity is verified in advance, and credentials are only transmitted after successful verification, ensuring security is maintained while enabling accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
Technology is disclosed for sharing an authentication profile for accessing a Wi-Fi network between multiple devices. To access a particular Wi-Fi network on a first device and a second device, authentication information, e.g., a password for the Wi-Fi network, may have to be input on both the devices. In some embodiments, the technology facilitates obtaining an approval for accessing the Wi-Fi network on the second device from the first device. Upon receiving a request from a user of the second device to access the Wi-Fi network on the second device, the second device requests if any of the devices, e.g., devices in proximity, can approve the access request. A notification is displayed on the first device regarding the access request. The user associated with first device can then approve the access request, which causes authentication information for accessing the Wi-Fi network to be transmitted to the second device.