Wireless Device Registration via Embedded Manufacturer Codes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless network access systems lack secure device identification and rate plan association, leading to potential unauthorized access and inefficient service provisioning due to reliance on insecure methods like HTTP clients and arbitrary MAC addresses.
Innovation Solution
Embedding manufacturer and model codes within wireless devices, which are securely transmitted to access points and used by network servers to authorize and establish appropriate service accounts, leveraging unique MAC addresses and timestamps for secure and efficient service provisioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If MAC addresses are used to identify wireless devices, then device identification is achieved, but security is compromised due to arbitrary values and ease of spoofing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the identification parameter from MAC address (arbitrary, spoofable) to device fingerprint (unique, secure). The device fingerprint is generated by extracting characteristics from multiple wireless signal transmissions, transforming the identification mechanism from one based on easily changeable parameters to one based on inherent device characteristics that are difficult to replicate.
2Ease of operation
If HTTP clients or user agents are used to identify devices, then some level of identification is provided, but security is insufficient and devices cannot be positively identified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the software-based identification mechanism (HTTP clients, user agents) with a physics-based identification mechanism (device fingerprinting through wireless signal analysis). This substitution leverages the inherent physical characteristics of wireless transmissions, which are difficult to replicate, thereby providing more secure identification while maintaining operational simplicity through automated analysis.
3Productivity
If IP addresses are used for device identification, then network access is enabled, but security is compromised due to IP spoofing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary device identification and fingerprinting before network access is granted. By analyzing wireless signal characteristics during the connection establishment phase, the system creates a secure device profile in advance, enabling both efficient network access and reliable security verification without requiring additional authentication steps during data transmission.
4Extent of automation
If pre-registration of devices is implemented, then automatic recognition is achieved, but system complexity increases and requires manual administrator input
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables devices to automatically generate and transmit their own identification information through wireless signal characteristics, eliminating the need for manual administrator registration. The system autonomously analyzes incoming connection requests, extracts device fingerprints, and creates device profiles automatically, providing self-service functionality that reduces both complexity and manual intervention requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for providing a wireless device with access to a computer network includes an access point that sets up a radio link with the wireless device and couples the wireless device to the network. The system also includes a server that receives data packets from the access point through the computer network. The data packets include at least one data packet that has a first identifier that uniquely identifies the wireless device and a second identifier that corresponds to at least one of a manufacturer code or a vendor code of the wireless device. The system further includes a database that is coupled to the server and stores data for associating a service plan with the first and second identifiers and basing the service plan, at least in part, on the second identifier. Other features and systems are also disclosed.