18528662. SECURING NETWORK STEERING INFORMATION simplified abstract (Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ))
Contents
SECURING NETWORK STEERING INFORMATION
Organization Name
Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ)
Inventor(s)
Ivo Sedkacek of HOVORCOVICE (CZ)
SECURING NETWORK STEERING INFORMATION - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18528662 titled 'SECURING NETWORK STEERING INFORMATION
Simplified Explanation
The abstract describes a method for securing network steering information by a user equipment (UE) in a mobile network environment.
- Transmit registration request to VPLMN
- Generate home network root key upon successful authentication
- Receive protected message with Network Steering Information from a network node
- Verify message using configuration key (Kconf) and MAC-1
- Transmit acknowledgement message to HPLMN protected with MAC-2
---
- Potential Applications
This technology can be applied in mobile network environments to ensure the security and integrity of network steering information, which is crucial for efficient network operations and user experience.
- Problems Solved
This technology solves the problem of unauthorized alteration of network steering information by ensuring that the information received by the UE is authentic and has not been tampered with during transmission.
- Benefits
- Enhanced security of network steering information - Improved reliability of network operations - Protection against unauthorized access and alteration of critical network data
- Potential Commercial Applications
This technology can be valuable for mobile network operators, device manufacturers, and network equipment providers looking to enhance the security and integrity of network operations in a mobile network environment.
- Possible Prior Art
One possible prior art in this area could be related to methods for securing network communications in mobile networks, such as encryption techniques and authentication protocols used to protect sensitive network data.
---
- Unanswered Questions
- How does this method impact the overall efficiency of network operations in a mobile network environment?
This method ensures the integrity and security of network steering information, which is essential for optimizing network operations and enhancing the overall efficiency of mobile networks.
- What are the potential challenges or limitations of implementing this method in a real-world mobile network environment?
Some potential challenges could include the complexity of implementing the necessary encryption and authentication mechanisms, as well as ensuring compatibility with existing network infrastructure and protocols.
Original Abstract Submitted
According to certain embodiments, a method by a user equipment (UE) for securing network steering information includes transmitting a registration request to a Visited Public Land Mobile Network (VPLMN). Upon successful authentication by an authentication server function (AUSF), a home network root key is generated. A protected message comprising Network Steering Information is received from a first network node. The protected message is protected using a configuration key (Kconf) and a first Message Authentication Code (MAC-1). The configuration key (Kconf) is determined from the home network root key, and the UE verifies the MAC-1. Based on the Kconf and the MAC-1, it is verified that the VPLMN did not alter Network Steering Information. An acknowledgement message, which is protected with a second Message Authentication Code (MAC-2), is transmitted to a Home Public Land Mobile Network (HPLMN).
