Patent ID: 8050656
Filing Date: 2011-11-01
Classification: H04W

Abstract:
1. A method for making a secure transfer of a mobile station communication connection from a direct connection with a cellular network to a connection via a wireless local area network, the method comprising: detecting by a mobile station, the presence of the mobile station within the communication coverage area of a wireless local area network; authenticating the mobile station with the wireless local area network; requesting a handoff from the cellular network to the wireless local area network; establishing a secure connection between the mobile station and the cellular network via the wireless local area network, wherein establishing the secure connection between the mobile station and the cellular network via the wireless local area network includes the setup of a secure tunnel, and wherein upon establishing the secure connection between the mobile station and the cellular network via the wireless local area network, communication of information via the wireless local area network is initiated; and breaking the direct connection with the cellular network, after establishing the secure connection between the mobile station and the cellular network via the wireless local area network, wherein the communication of information via the wireless local area network prior to breaking the direct connection with the cellular network will include the same information being communicated concurrently via the direct connection and the secure connection via the wireless local area network.