OpenRoamingTM is the Wireless Broadband Alliance’s (WBA) Federated Roaming framework for Wi-Fi. OpenRoaming enables interconnection of Wi-Fi Access Network Providers (ANP) and Identity providers (IDP), creating ‘One Global Wi-Fi Network’ where devices can connect seamlessly and securely worldwide.
WBA OpenRoaming is built upon WBA OpenRoaming PKI, Passpoint® and DNS-based Dynamic Peer Discovery, as defined in RFC 7585. It delivers seamless and secure wireless experiences. WBA OpenRoaming uses the OpenRoaming PKI to ensure end-to-end security of signalling between ANPs and IDPs. Passpoint® seamless authentication is then used to secure the Wi-Fi link between end-user devices and OpenRoaming access networks, eliminating security concerns for Wi-Fi connectivity. Users can use existing credentials, such as carrier, device operating systems or even loyalty applications, to automatically connect to participating Wi-Fi networks.
OpenRoaming + DPD = Easy onboarding
What is Dynamic Peer Discovery (DPD)?
Dynamic peer discovery (DPD) is a technique for Access Network Providers (ANP’s) to dynamically discover the servers and agents operated by an Identity Provider (IDP). Prior to OpenRoaming, enabling roaming onto public WI-Fi networks was complicated and time consuming. Each roaming partner relationship required specific access network configuration. With OpenRoaming and DPD, the access network no longer needs partner-specific configuration, significantly reducing the configuration burden on the access provider.
OpenRoaming with Dynamic Peer Discovery (DPD) is a feature of the OpenRoaming framework developed by the Wireless Broadband Alliance. DPD allows devices to discover and connect to other nearby devices that are also using the OpenRoaming framework, without the need for a central network or access point.
DPD operates through a peer-to-peer (P2P) connection, where devices can discover each other and establish a secure connection through a series of authentication and encryption protocols. This allows for seamless connectivity between devices, even in areas where traditional Wi-Fi networks may not be available or reliable.
The use of DPD in OpenRoaming provides several benefits, including enhanced security, improved connectivity, and increased flexibility for users. By leveraging P2P connections, OpenRoaming with DPD can enable a wide range of use cases, from simple file sharing between devices to more complex applications, such as peer-to-peer video conferencing and real-time data sharing
DPD is a major step forward in simplifying the deployment of roaming relationships. OpenRoaming with DPD allows for roaming to be set up with just a few steps, automatically connecting customers from different IDP. WBA OpenRoaming reduces operating expenses, leveraging off-the-shelf solutions to connect access network providers and identity providers and solves the scaling limitations of existing bilateral and/or hub-based approaches.
One of the main challenges for businesses is providing seamless and secure Wi-Fi connectivity for their employees, customers, and guests across multiple locations. OpenRoaming with DPD addresses this problem by enabling automatic Wi-Fi authentication and connection across participating networks, without requiring any manual intervention from the user.
While DPD is defined for use between cellular networks, it requires all networks to be connected to the private, inter-carrier IP backbone. DPD for signalling Wi-Fi authentication using SIM card credentials was specifically prohibited from being used over the public Internet. This meant
that each access network required carrier-specific configuration to support in-bound roaming. WBA has worked with the GSM Association to define the enhancements that enable DPD for SIM card authentication to work over the public Internet. Now, with OpenRoaming and DPD, connectivity between the ANPs and Mobile Operators is dramatically simplified resulting in increased adoption and significant savings of time and effort in configurations and testing.
One of the main challenges for businesses is providing seamless and secure Wi-Fi connectivity for their employees, customers, and guests across multiple locations. OpenRoaming with DPD addresses this problem by enabling automatic Wi-Fi authentication and connection across participating networks, without requiring any manual intervention from the user.
While DPD is defined for use between cellular networks, it requires all networks to be connected to the private, inter-carrier IP backbone. DPD for signalling Wi-Fi authentication using SIM card credentials was specifically prohibited from being used over the public Internet. This meant that each access network required carrier-specific configuration to support in-bound roaming. WBA has worked with the GSM Association to define the enhancements that enable DPD for SIM card authentication to work over the public Internet. Now, with OpenRoaming and DPD, connectivity between the ANPs and Mobile Operators is dramatically simplified resulting in increased adoption and significant savings of time and effort in configurations and testing.
Live case of DPD on OpenRoaming solving those business problems
DPD on OpenRoaming has been implemented by a number of OpenRoaming federation members including AT&T, Cisco and SingleDigits and Cisco manage Dynamically Discoverable realms that support the OpenRoaming Framework. wba.3af521.net has been designated for the WBA Proof of Concept (PoC) userbase.
AT&T and Single Digits have implemented the DNS records to enable 3GPP Dynamic Peer Discover for AT&T subscribers on multiple Cisco Proof of Concept locations. Intel has successfully tested this on an Intel-Powered AT&T-SIM-enabled laptop, on a Cisco network. Intel-based PC can be provisioned for OpenRoaming through an online portal hosted by Single Digits. An Intel PC with an OpenRoaming profile from Single Digits can then connect seamlessly to available OpenRoaming Wi-Fi networks on the go.
Users can download the WBA OpenRoaming profile with DPD-enabled HERE>
“Reliable Wi-Fi is now essential for events like conferences and trade shows, just like electricity. Our Wi-Fi network is constantly being improved with investments to make it one of the best in the world. Wi-Fi 6 and OpenRoaming ensure high-quality connectivity, while Dynamic Peer Discovery (DPD) allows attendees to easily discover nearby access points without manual authentication. We will soon upgrade to Wi-Fi 6E for even better user experiences. At the recent WBA Wireless Global Congress event, OpenRoaming and DPD enabled seamless authentication for over 1,100 devices, with one third using SIM card credentials without RAI’s individual mobile carrier relationships.” – Paul Hassink, Product Manager IT RAI
John Haspil, Vice President – BSGW Unit at Single Digits, stated “The provision of DPD (Dynamic Peer Discovery) for our mobile customers with OpenRoaming network partners streamlines our interaction and simplifies roaming, enabling our Mobile Operators to experience significant benefit from the OpenRoaming ecosystem”.
Seamless Wi-Fi Interactions: Leveraging Dynamic Peer Discovery with OpenRoaming
While OpenRoaming primarily focuses on network authentication and roaming, the incorporation of Dynamic Peer Discovery can significantly improve overall connectivity and enhance the user experience. By leveraging Dynamic Peer Discovery alongside OpenRoaming, devices can effortlessly connect to Wi-Fi networks and seamlessly discover and interact with other devices on the network, all without the need for additional configuration.
The implementation of Dynamic Peer Discovery within the framework of OpenRoaming necessitates collaboration and support from network operators, service providers, and device manufacturers. This collaboration could facilitate a more seamless and interconnected experience for devices within a Wi-Fi network environment.
However, it is important to note that the specific integration of OpenRoaming with Dynamic Peer Discovery may vary based on the implementation and support provided by different network infrastructures and device manufacturers.
