Abstract: This application describes, among other things, a framework of Media-independent Pre-Authentication (MPA), a new handover optimization mechanism that has a potential to address issues on existing mobility management protocols and mobility optimization mechanisms. MPA is a mobile-assisted, secure handover optimization scheme that works over any link-layer and with any mobility management protocol. This application also shows, among other things, an initial implementation of MPA in our testbed and some performance results to show how existing protocols could be leveraged to realize the functionalities of MPA.

Abstract: In the preferred embodiments, a system and/or method is disclosed for performing an MPA proactive handover of a mobile node in a Mobile IP scenario which includes, employing a care-of address assigned by a previous foreign agent (pFA-CoA) as a mobile node's tunnel outer address of a forward proactive handover tunnel from a new foreign agent to the mobile node.

Abstract: In some of the preferred embodiments, methods for converting XML data to TLV format are provided for use in, e.g., query and/or response in, e.g., network discovery and the like applications.

Abstract: The preferred embodiments herein relate to methods and systems for controlling a handoff decision related to switch back of a mobile node between a first network and a second network in a media independent pre-authentication framework and/or to methods and systems for mitigating effects of undesired switch back of a mobile node between a first network and a second network in a media independent pre-authentication framework.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of buffering packets for the mobile node at an access router or network node near the edge of the network that the mobile is moving away from or towards. The buffered packets are then forwarded to the mobile node once the handoff process is completed. This invention also relates to the use of buffering packets originating from the mobile node during the handoff process. The buffered packets are then forwarded to their intended destinations once the handoff process is completed. The buffering system is used in conjunction with existing mobility protocols, access protocols, or as an independent network or link layer mechanism.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for secure and seamless roaming between internal and external networks. Double and triple tunnels may be used to connect a mobile node to a correspondent host. A mobile node may include the ability to connect to two networks simultaneously to enable seamless roaming between networks.