WWAN Device Automatic Provisioning via Redirection Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users and network operators face challenges in obtaining and managing network connection information for wireless wide area networks (WWANs), particularly when connecting to roaming networks, due to the need for manual configuration and potential errors in obtaining configuration parameters like access point names, usernames, and passwords.
Innovation Solution
The use of an internet-based mechanism to obtain network connection information, where a wireless device queries a redirection server for the URL of a provisioning server operated by the WWAN network operator, allowing for automatic retrieval of configuration information, data roaming partner details, and cost information, reducing human input errors and improving network selection decisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual configuration is used to obtain network connection information, then users can obtain configuration parameters, but the process is time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automatic self-provisioning where the wireless device autonomously obtains configuration parameters by querying the provisioning server through internet connection, eliminating the need for manual user input and reducing both time and errors
Solution Approach 2:
The provisioning server acts as an intermediary between the network operator and the wireless device, automatically providing configuration parameters, roaming partner information, and cost information without requiring manual user intervention
2Ease of operation
If configuration software is used to install parameters, then configuration can be automated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The provisioning system extracts the configuration complexity from the device side and relocates it to the server side. The wireless device only needs to query and receive parameters, while the provisioning server handles all the complex configuration logic, parameter validation, and information management
3Loss of information
If users manually obtain roaming partner information, then they can make informed decisions, but the process requires multiple steps and potential errors
Solution Approach 1:
The provisioning server provides a universal information service that delivers multiple types of network information (roaming partner identities, cost information, configuration parameters) through a single automated query process, consolidating multiple information needs into one efficient operation
Data Source
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AI summary
Network connection information is requested by a wireless wide area network device via the internet. Such information may include configuration information, data roaming partner information, and/or cost information regarding roaming partner connection and/or a subscriber plan related to the wireless wide area network. To retrieve the information, the wireless device sends a request to a redirection server, which in turn provides an internet address for a provisioning server, or instructs a provisioning server to provide the network configuration information to the wireless device. A user and/or the wireless device may use the network connection information when deciding whether and/or how to connect to the network. A network provider may use methods disclosed herein to efficiently update wireless devices that subscribe to the network. The network provider may provide selected network connection information based on information regarding the wireless device, such as the user identification.