Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing quasi-licensed spectrum access within an area or venue. In one embodiment, the quasi-licensed spectrum utilizes 3.5 GHz CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) spectrum allocated by a Federal or commercial SAS (Spectrum Access System) to a managed content delivery network that includes one or more wireless access nodes (e.g., CBSDs and APs) in data communication with a controller. In one variant, the controller dynamically allocates (i) spectrum within the area or venue within CBRS bands, and (ii) MSO users or subscribers to CBRS bands or WLAN (e.g., public ISM) bands in to manage interference between the coexisting networks, and maximize user experience. In another variant, the controller cooperates with a provisioning server to implement a client device application program or “app” on MSO user or subscriber client devices which enables inter-RAT access.

Abstract: A communications system includes a non-MUSIM enhanced PLMN and a MUSIM enhanced PLMN. The MUSIM enhanced PLMN includes a novel Multi-Path (MP) Proxy node. The MP Proxy Node is controlled to switch between two alternative DL data flow paths to facilitate graceful path changeovers. Downlink (DL) data flow toward the non MUSIM enhanced network (e.g., PLMN-A) is based on the interaction between the MUSIM UE and the MUSIM enhanced network (e.g., PLMN-B) together with the novel MultiPath (MP) Proxy node.

Abstract: Various embodiments comprise systems, methods, architectures, mechanisms and apparatus for optimizing the delivery of multicast messages to a set of targeted (receiver) devices via a low power wide area (LPWA) network such as by minimizing a number of gateway devices in a set of gateway devices needed to reach the target devices, by optimizing the use of radio communication resources to minimize costs associated with using metered backhaul network services (e.g., costs associated with using cellular network backhaul services), by maximizing the resiliency, speed, or synchronization of the set of gateway devices, by favoring operator-owned resources, or by achieving other goals consistent with operator policies, preferences and other considerations.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing quasi-licensed spectrum allocation among two or more entities within a prescribed coverage or operational area. In one embodiment, the quasi-licensed spectrum utilizes 3.5 GHz CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) spectrum allocated between two or more Federal or commercial SASs (Spectrum Access Systems), for use by various service provider entities such as a managed content delivery network that includes one or more wireless access nodes (e.g., CBSDs). In one variant, each of two or more SAS entities generate both proposed allocations for themselves and other participating SAS entities with respect to available GAA spectrum, and differences between the proposed allocations are reconciled and condensed using a dynamic, iterative process to converge on a final allocation which fits the available GAA spectrum and which equitably distributes the spectrum between the participating SAS entities.

Abstract: A low-power wide area network supports IP communication between a wireless device and an IP application node. The LPWAN server provides the application node's IP address and a compression/decompression protocol to the device, which applies the protocol (i) to generate a compressed uplink IP header for wireless transmission to LPWAN radio gateway(s), where the compressed IP header is subsequently decompressed to form an uplink IP packet for transmission to the application node and (ii) to decompress a compressed downlink IP header received from a radio gateway, where the compressed IP header was generated from an uncompressed downlink IP header from the IP application node. The device can also segment large uplink IP packets and reassemble large downlink IP packets. In a LoRaWAN network, the join server facilitates arriving at a common compression/decompression protocol and assigns an IP address to the device to enable IP communication with an IP application client.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for registering and authenticating a client device with a wireless-enabled network. In one embodiment, the apparatus and methods provide an alternate wireless connectivity link to register an installed high-power fixed wireless apparatus (FWA) or Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) with a managed wireless network infrastructure, such as one utilizing “quasi-licensed” CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) wireless spectrum or another shared access approach. In one variant, the alternate wireless link comprises a mobile cellular channel established via an application program executing on a mobile device. In another variant, an Internet of Thing Network (IoT) is used for the alternate link. In one implementation, spectrum grants are communicated back the FWA/CPE via the alternate link to enable subsequent CBRS-band high-power operation.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for supporting efficient switching of data paths corresponding to a communications session between different non-3GPP access networks, e.g., networks including WiFi access points, using network core functionality are described. A novel registration process in which UE and AMF capability information is exchanged at an early stage in the registration process is described. An initial registration request message from a UE, via a 3GPP or N3GPP access network, includes an indicator as to whether or not the UE supports path switching for MA PDU sessions between N3GPP access paths. This allows, for a UE which supports the path switching, a AMF to be selected and assigned to the UE, which also supports the path switching, thus matching capabilities and eliminating the need for interrupting communications to change AMFs at a later point.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for supporting efficient switching of data paths corresponding to a communications session between different non-3GPP access networks, e.g., networks including WiFi access points, using network core functionality are described. A novel registration process in which UE and AMF capability information is exchanged at an early stage in the registration process is described. An initial registration request message from a UE, via a 3GPP or N3GPP access network, includes an indicator as to whether or not the UE supports path switching for MA PDU sessions between N3GPP access paths. This allows, for a UE which supports the path switching, a AMF to be selected and assigned to the UE, which also supports the path switching, thus matching capabilities and eliminating the need for interrupting communications to change AMFs at a later point.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing quasi-licensed spectrum allocation among two or more entities within a prescribed coverage or operational area. In one embodiment, the quasi-licensed spectrum utilizes 3.5 GHz CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) spectrum allocated between two or more Federal or commercial SASs (Spectrum Access Systems), for use by various service provider entities such as a managed content delivery network that includes one or more wireless access nodes (e.g., CBSDs). In one variant, each of two or more SAS entities generate both proposed allocations for themselves and other participating SAS entities with respect to available GAA spectrum, and differences between the proposed allocations are reconciled and condensed using a dynamic, iterative process to converge on a final allocation which fits the available GAA spectrum and which equitably distributes the spectrum between the participating SAS entities.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for supporting switching of data paths corresponding to a communications session between different non-3GPP access networks, e.g., networks including WiFi access points, using network core functionality are described. This allows a communications session in which a UE is involved as an end point to be switched between two different WiFi access networks and/or a WiFi access network and a 3GPP access network, e.g., cellular access network, without the communications session being terminated while service is provided to the UE by a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) with which it is registered. A UE can switch between multiple WiFi networks while maintaining a communications session supported by network core functionality even though the session may be switched between different non-3GPP networks while the session is ongoing.

Abstract: A communications system includes a non-MUSIM enhanced PLMN and a MUSIM enhanced PLMN. The MUSIM enhanced PLMN includes a novel Multi-Path (MP) Proxy node. The MP Proxy Node is controlled to switch between two alternative DL data flow paths to facilitate graceful path changeovers. Downlink (DL) data flow toward the non MUSIM enhanced network (e.g., PLMN-A) is based on the interaction between the MUSIM UE and the MUSIM enhanced network (e.g., PLMN-B) together with the novel MultiPath (MP) Proxy node.

Abstract: A device management resource detects an anomaly event associated with a first communication device based on analysis of first feedback from multiple network entities supporting conveyance of communications associated with the first communication device. The device management resource selects an operational state of the first communication device based on the detected anomaly event. The device management resource then notifies each of the network entities of the selected operational state of the first communication device. Each of the network entities collects and forwards different feedback data associated with the first communication device depending on the selected operational state of the first communication device.

Abstract: A communication management resource manages wireless connectivity of multiple wireless communication devices including a first wireless communication device to a wireless network. The communication management resource detects a condition in which to terminate wireless access services provided to the first wireless communication device via the wireless network. In response to the detected condition, the communication management resource communicates with the first wireless communication device to terminate use of the wireless access services by the first wireless communication device. This disclosure further includes device pollution prevention techniques leveraging standard messages or a new message.

Abstract: A base station in a first wireless network provides first wireless connectivity to user equipment operated by a subscriber. The first wireless network supports first wireless communications such as non-voice communications. A network management resource receives configuration information assigned to the subscriber operating the user equipment. The configuration information indicates that the subscriber is assigned use of a second wireless network that provides support of second wireless communications (such as voice communications). In response to detecting a trigger event (such as a voice call) indicating a need to switch to use of the second wireless network, the network management resource initiates termination of the first wireless connectivity and establishment of second wireless connectivity between the user equipment and a base station in the second wireless network.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and systems for using out-of-band spectrum for shared spectrum registration and increased link reliability and capacity. A method for customer premise equipment (CPE) attachment and registration in a shared spectrum system includes attaching, by the CPE to a shared spectrum access point, using an out-of-band spectrum, where the out-of-band spectrum is out-of-band with respect to a shared spectrum of the shared spectrum system, registering, by the CPE with a spectrum access system, using the out-of-band spectrum upon successful attachment with the shared spectrum access point, and communicating, by the CPE, using at least the shared spectrum upon successful registration with the spectrum access system.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing quasi-licensed spectrum access within an area or venue. In one embodiment, the quasi-licensed spectrum utilizes 3.5 GHz CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) spectrum allocated by a Federal or commercial SAS (Spectrum Access System) to a managed content delivery network that includes one or more wireless access nodes (e.g., CBSDs and APs) in data communication with a controller. In one variant, the controller dynamically allocates (i) spectrum within the area or venue within CBRS bands, and (ii) MSO users or subscribers to CBRS bands or WLAN (e.g., public ISM) bands in to manage interference between the coexisting networks, and maximize user experience. In another variant, the controller cooperates with a provisioning server to implement a client device application program or “app” on MSO user or subscriber client devices which enables inter-RAT access.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing quasi-licensed spectrum access within a prescribed area or venue, including to users or subscribers of one or more Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). In one embodiment, the quasi-licensed spectrum utilizes 3.5 GHz CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) spectrum allocated by a Federal or commercial SAS (Spectrum Access System) to a managed content delivery network that includes one or more wireless access nodes (e.g., CBSDs) in data communication with a controller, and the core(s) of the MNO network(s). In one variant, the controller dynamically allocates (i) spectrum within the area or venue within CBRS bands, and (ii) MNO “roaming” users or subscribers to CBRS bands (e.g., via extant LTE-TD technology). In one particular implementation, the managed network comprises a Multiple Systems Operator (MSO) network such as a cable or satellite network, and the MSO and MNO coordinate to implement user-specific and/or data-specific policies for the roaming MNO subscribers.

Abstract: A communications device is equipped with a secondary interface, e.g., a wireless interface, in addition to a primary interface. In at least some, but not necessarily all, embodiments the secondary interface is an inexpensive Long Range (LoRa) wireless interface which uses sub-GHz unlicensed spectrum or a Narrow Band-Internet of Things (NB-IoT) wireless interface which uses licensed spectrum. The secondary interface is in addition to a primary interface used for transmitting data, e.g., user data such as voice, video or text data, to a primary communications device, e.g., to support voice or data applications running on a user device. The secondary interface, e.g., a low power/low data rate interface, is used for communicating small amounts of data for initial configuration, fault recovery, re-initialization, and/or updates.

Abstract: A base station in a first wireless network provides first wireless connectivity to user equipment operated by a subscriber. The first wireless network supports first wireless communications such as non-voice communications. A network management resource receives configuration information assigned to the subscriber operating the user equipment. The configuration information indicates that the subscriber is assigned use of a second wireless network that provides support of second wireless communications (such as voice communications). In response to detecting a trigger event (such as a voice call) indicating a need to switch to use of the second wireless network, the network management resource initiates termination of the first wireless connectivity and establishment of second wireless connectivity between the user equipment and a base station in the second wireless network.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for providing quasi-licensed spectrum access within an area or venue. In one embodiment, the quasi-licensed spectrum utilizes 3.5 GHz CBRS (Citizens Broadband Radio Service) spectrum allocated by a Federal or commercial SAS (Spectrum Access System) to a managed content delivery network that includes one or more wireless access nodes (e.g., CBSDs and APs) in data communication with a controller. In one variant, the controller dynamically allocates (i) spectrum within the area or venue within CBRS bands, and (ii) MSO users or subscribers to CBRS bands or WLAN (e.g., public ISM) bands in to manage interference between the coexisting networks, and maximize user experience. In another variant, the controller cooperates with a provisioning server to implement a client device application program or “app” on MSO user or subscriber client devices which enables inter-RAT access.