Securing a network connection by way of an endpoint computing device

Abstract

Methods and apparatus involve securing a network connection by way of mobile, endpoint computing assets. The endpoints have one or more pre-defined security policies governing the connection that are balanced against competing interests of actually maintaining connections between devices, especially in WiMAX, MANET, MESH, or other ad hoc computing environments where poor security, signal strength, fragile connections or mobility issues are of traditional concern. In this manner, connections will not be lost over security enforcement in an otherwise hostile environment. The security policies are enforced in a variety of ways, but may be altered to lesser policies or not-so-strictly enforced so as to maintain satisfactory connections between devices. Other embodiments contemplate analyzing connectivity components before connection and selecting only those components that enable full or best compliance with the policies. Still other embodiments contemplate altering connections in order to maintain full enforcement of policies. Computer program products are also disclosed.