WLAN Access Point Configuration via AP-Configurator Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional 802.11-based wireless networks require significant user interaction and technical knowledge for setup and configuration, especially for security options, posing challenges for inexperienced users and becoming more complex as network size grows.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for distributing configuration information among access points in a wireless local area network (WLAN) using an AP-configurator that configures AP-clients and client stations, reducing user interaction by automating the configuration process through secure RF channels and encryption techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual configuration methods are used for access points in conventional 802.11-based networks, then configuration can be performed with existing technology, but user interaction time and technical knowledge requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service configuration where the access point automatically configures itself by receiving configuration information from a configurator device. The AP extracts BSS parameters from received configuration data and autonomously configures its wireless network parameters, eliminating the need for manual user configuration and significantly reducing setup time while maintaining ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If default configuration is used for new access points, then setup is simpler, but network security is compromised due to no security configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring security parameters and BSS information through the configurator device before the access point becomes operational. The configuration information includes security settings that are automatically applied during the automated configuration process, ensuring that security is established before the AP starts serving clients, thus maintaining both simplicity and security.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple access points are deployed to expand network coverage, then signal coverage improves, but configuration complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by creating a standardized configuration process that works across multiple access points. The configurator device can configure any AP in the network using the same automated process, and configured APs can subsequently act as configurators for other APs. This multi-functional approach allows uniform configuration across expanded network coverage without increasing complexity for each additional AP.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach where a configurator device (which can be another configured AP) mediates the configuration process for multiple access points. Instead of requiring direct user configuration of each AP, the configurator acts as an intermediary that automatically distributes configuration information across the network, simplifying multi-AP deployment while expanding coverage area.
4Extent of automation
If automated configuration is implemented through AP-configurator, then user interaction is reduced, but system complexity increases due to additional configuration protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by combining the configuration functionality directly into the existing beacon frame structure of the 802.11 protocol. Configuration information is embedded within standard beacon frames that are already part of the wireless communication protocol, rather than requiring separate configuration protocols. This integration reduces system complexity while maintaining high automation by utilizing existing protocol infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of a method and system for distribution of configuration information among access points (AP) in a WLAN across a distribution system (DS) are presented. An AP, performing in a role of an AP-configurator may configure another AP, performing in a role of AP-client. The AP-configurator may distribute configurator configuration information to the AP-client. A configured AP-client may adopt a role of AP-configurator to configure a subsequent AP-client. An AP-configurator, or configured AP-client may subsequently configure a client station. The AP-configurator or configured AP-client may distribute configuration information to the client station. The configuration information may be based on previously distributed configurator configuration information. The method may enable client stations to be configured based on common configuration information that may be derived from configurator configuration information that was distributed by an AP-configurator. The client stations configured based on the common configuration information may communicate information in a secure network.