FIELD: physics, computer engineering.
SUBSTANCE: invention relates to methods and an apparatus for authentication and granting a client device access to a network. A network service provider such as a cellular communication company may distribute user access (e.g., universal subscriber identity module or "USIM") credentials to a services manager via a USIM vendor. The services manager may maintain a list of authorised users. A user may be authenticated at the services manager, after which a set of USIM credentials is sent to the user. When the user desires to use wireless network services, the user equipment may establish a wireless link between the user equipment and the network service provider. During authentication operations, the user equipment may use the USIM credentials to authenticate at the network service provider. Following successful authentication, the network service provider may provide the user equipment with wireless services.
EFFECT: enabling provision of services from a provider in a wireless device without using a SIM card.
16 cl, 9 dwg
