5G & Wi-Fi Convergence – Edge Roaming Cases

TRENDS AND OPPORTUNITIES

The convergence of private 5G mobile networks and Wi-Fi systems is creating significant opportunities for seamless, automated onboarding of cellular users into enterprise Wi-Fi environments, enabling more sophisticated authentication and identity-management frameworks.

Enhancing roaming through precisely engineered handover points strengthens uninterrupted mobility and advances edge-roaming innovation. Integrating Access Traffic Steering, Switching and Splitting (ATSSS) supports dynamic traffic orchestration and improved network efficiency.

Harmonizing Quality of Experience (QoE) metrics across both radio domains promotes standardized performance assessment. Reducing reliance on device and operating-system vendors encourages more flexible, interoperable solutions and facilitates broader industry-wide adoption..

BUSINESS & MARKET BENEFITS

Phase 1 in 2022 laid the groundwork for private 5G and Wi-Fi convergence by defining spectrum use, deployment models, integration approaches, authentication methods, and ATSSS readiness.

Phase 2 (2024) introduced practical mechanisms for streamlined onboarding, rapid transitions, IP continuity, and enhanced radio access technology optimization.

Phase 3 will deliver stronger business and market impacts through improved user experience, more efficient handovers, and higher network performance. Simplified architectures and reduced transaction times will cut operational costs and support greater scalability. Mitigating OS and device dependencies will expand solution versatility and adoption. Alignment with emerging standards positions enterprises for sustained competitive advantage in a converged connectivity landscape.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

This project aims to establish a standardized, interoperable framework that enables seamless integration between 5G and Wi-Fi, delivering consistent performance, uninterrupted connectivity, and improved Quality of Experience across converged network environments. By advancing handover efficiency, reducing transaction times, and aligning with global standards bodies, the project supports scalable, future-proof deployments for enterprises.

Key Deliverables

This phase will deliver a standardized 5G-Wi-Fi convergence framework, optimized handovers, and reduced transaction latency to improve reliability and user experience in edge cases.

Continued alignment with 3GPP, IETF, and others enhances interoperability, scalability, and long-term enterprise advantage in a converged connectivity market.