SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRANSPARENTLY PROVIDING ACCESS TO SECURE NETWORKS

摘要

Network access for a secure network is transparently provided to a wireless device using a social networking type of framework. An operator of a secure wireless network may register the network and access credentials for the network with a network access management system. The operator also may configure network access settings, such as designating a sharing level, that permits wireless devices meeting access criteria for the sharing level to use the network. Electronic devices belonging to social media contacts, such as family members and friends, may be associated with the registered network. When the associated devices or other qualifying devices are within communication range of the network, a client function in the device may coordinate with the network access management system to provide network access to the devices. The coordination may take place through a network different than the secure network, such as a cellular network to which the electronic device has subscription access. The network access may be established in a manner that is transparent to the user of the electronic device.