WiFi Authentication Using Calling Line Identification Passcodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of an efficient method for mobile users to access WiFi networks using their personal WiFi-only devices, such as laptops or tablets, especially when roaming, and to share data access with family members, as existing solutions do not provide a convenient and secure way to authenticate these devices.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses calling line identification (CLI) as a passcode for WiFi device authentication, where a mobile number is input, a call is made to the mobile device with a random CLI, and the user enters this CLI as a passcode to access the WiFi hotspot, incorporating multi-factor authentication including device location for enhanced security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional WiFi authentication methods are used, then devices can access the WiFi network, but security is compromised and roaming charges are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The authentication process is segmented into multiple independent verification steps: first verifying the mobile number, then making a call to deliver the CLI passcode, and finally validating the entered passcode. This multi-stage segmentation enhances security while maintaining user convenience through automated processes.
Solution Approach 2:
A mobile phone call serves as an intermediary mechanism to deliver the authentication passcode (CLI) to the user. The calling line identification system acts as a mediator between the WiFi authentication system and the user, providing secure passcode delivery without requiring direct interaction between the WiFi system and the user's personal device.
2Reliability
If multi-factor authentication with CLI is implemented, then security is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a universal mobile phone calling mechanism that most users already possess and understand. The CLI authentication system leverages the existing mobile phone infrastructure for passcode delivery, avoiding the need for specialized hardware or complex user-specific authentication devices, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically manages the authentication process by selecting random CLIs from its pool, making calls to deliver passcodes, and validating entered passcodes without requiring manual configuration or complex user setup. This self-service automation reduces operational complexity despite the enhanced security measures.
3Reliability
If random CLI selection is used, then passcode security is improved, but authentication time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-establishes a pool of valid calling line identifications that have been verified in advance. When authentication is needed, the system simply selects from this pre-validated pool and initiates a call, rather than generating and validating new authentication credentials in real-time. This preliminary preparation significantly reduces authentication time while maintaining security through random selection from the pre-validated pool.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method, and computer program product are provided for performing WiFi device authentication utilizing a calling line identification (CLI) as a passcode. When a request is received from a WiFi only device to access the Internet via a WiFi hotspot, a call is made to a mobile number of a mobile device that was specified in the request, wherein the call is made from a calling line identification randomly selected from a plurality of calling line identifications. The calling line identification is then usable by the WiFi only device as a passcode to access the Internet via the WiFi hotspot.