Inter subnet roaming system and method

摘要

The present invention communication network system and method facilitates authentication and registration in a communication network as mobile nodes move from one geographical region to another. Multiple wireless domain services (WDSs) share client authentication information permitting relatively seamless roaming between subnets with minimal interruptions and delays. In one embodiment, a wireless domain service network communication method is performed utilizing partial authentication processes. A mobile node engages in an authentication protocol with a first wireless domain service (WDS) access point in a first subnet. The authentication credentials are forwarded to a second wireless domain service in a second subnet if the authentication protocol is successfully completed. The forwarded authentication credentials are utilized to authenticate the client entering the service area of the second wireless domain service in the second subnet. The authentication credentials can be "pushed" or "pulled" from the first wireless domain service to the second wireless domain service.