Use of Internet Web Technology to Register Wireless Access Customers

Abstract

Internet web technology is used to allow new wireless Internet customers to self register by providing an anonymous session connection on the wireless network between a special registration web server and the customers computer and associated wireless internet User Equipment.

1 . A method of operating a cellular wireless Internet access system as part of an Internet Network including registration of new wireless Internet access customers/users having personal computers (PCs) where each user utilizes a portable user equipment typically with a directly attached antenna for communicating in a wireless manner on a cellular network with an integrated network controller, the method comprising the following steps:
 the user acquires said user equipment along with magnetic storage means such as a CD having predetermined software and data for use in said registration;   connecting said terminal to said PC and installing the CD in the PC and allowing a wizard in said predetermined software to control the PC and its connected User Equipment;   under the direction of the wizard in the PC, the User Equipment is commanded to communicate in a wireless manner using an anonymous communications session which permits it to communicate only with a predetermined registration web server via authentication of a predefined temporary ‘new user’ ID and ‘new user’ password stored on the CD;   if properly connected, a point-to-point protocol (PPP) link is set up between the PC and its associated User Equipment and the registration web server, and then credit card, other personal details and type of service required are entered, the web server also having a list of allowable (Internet Service Providers) ISPs and if required their respective registration software for download;   if authorized by said registration web server, giving to the user a permanent User ID and a permanent password and providing said User ID and password to an access operator authentication server as part of the Internet network;   thereafter, allowing normal wireless Internet connections to a said allowable ISP for an Internet session which is authorized using customer information acquired by such registration.   
     
     
         2 . A method as in  claim 1  where said servers for said wireless Internet access system operate using the RADIUS standard, RADIUS being normally used in public switched telephone networks for dial-up Internet access. 
     
     
         3 . A method as in  claims 1  and  2  where portable wireless Internet users can register with a predetermined wireless Internet access operator without having to sign up for service via a retail outlet.