Wireless Device Cloud-Based Network Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for binding and provisioning wireless devices to networks are technically complex and do not simplify the process for seamless connectivity, particularly for devices without a rich user interface like Wi-Fi enabled printers and appliances.
Innovation Solution
A system and method where a wireless device automatically associates with a cloud system through a router, retrieves a list of approved networks prioritized by the cloud service, scans the local environment, compares available networks, and chooses the best network based on prioritization for secure and instant internet connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional binding and provisioning methods are used, then network security is maintained, but the connection process becomes technically complex and difficult for devices without rich user interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cloud service as an intermediary between the wireless device and the network. The cloud service receives device information, determines approved networks, and provides prioritization lists to the device. This mediator simplifies the connection process by handling the complex binding and provisioning logic centrally, making it easy for devices without rich user interfaces to connect securely.
2Speed
If automatic network selection is implemented, then connection speed is improved, but network security control may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-determining the list of approved networks and their prioritization through the cloud service before the device actually connects. The cloud service evaluates device information and network compatibility in advance, creating a prioritized list that the device then follows for automatic connection. This preliminary security verification maintains reliability while enabling fast automatic connection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If devices can join any available network, then connectivity flexibility is improved, but security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cloud service implements a feedback mechanism where it receives device information, evaluates it against network criteria, and returns a prioritized list of approved networks. This feedback loop ensures that devices only connect to networks that have been vetted and approved based on security and compatibility criteria, maintaining security control while allowing flexible automatic connection to appropriate networks.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems and apparatus for connecting a wireless device to a network are disclosed. One method includes automatically associating, by the wireless device, to a cloud system through a router, retrieving, by the wireless device, after automatically associating, a list of approved networks from a cloud service of the cloud system, wherein the list of approved networks includes a prioritization of the approved networks, scanning, by the wireless device, a local wireless environment, comparing, by the wireless device, a list of available networks advertised from nearby routers from the scan of a local wireless environment with the list of approved networks when the wireless device is looking for networks to join, and choosing, by the wireless device, an available network from the list of available networks advertised based at least in part on the comparing and the prioritization of the approved networks.