Specifications & guidelines

Operator Managed Wi-Fi: Reference Architecture and Requirements

Overview of the OMWi Reference Architecture

Introduced by the WBA in 2023, the Operator Managed Wi-Fi (OMWi) reference architecture was developed in collaboration with industry leaders, including major ISPs, open-source communities, and hardware and software vendors, to meet the growing demand for a comprehensive, standardized and interoperable reference for residential Wi-Fi.

Phase 2 Developments: Expanding Scope and Implementation

In 2024, OMWi advanced to Phase 2, expanding its scope with enhanced technical and operational requirements and introducing open-source, OMWi-compliant implementations from partners such as the prpl Foundation,and RDK-B. This updated technical report delivers a comprehensive framework for deploying and managing residential Wi-Fi, addressing global operator needs through the integration of key standards and open-source platforms. It defines a standardized reference architecture that streamlines Wi-Fi management by unifying data collection, network configuration, and optimization processes across systems, reducing dependence on fragmented, proprietary solutions.

The OMWi architecture integrates key industry standards, including Wi-Fi Alliance’s Wi-Fi EasyMesh™, Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Data Elements™, and Broadband Forum’s User Services Platform (USP) Data Models TR-369 and TR-181. These standards collectively ensure that the architecture is scalable and interoperable, guiding operators in engaging with equipment vendors on shared specifications.

Looking Ahead to Phase 3

In Phase 3, expected to begin in 2025, WBA plans to launch a compliance program that will include an expanded telemetry component and an endorsed testing suite. This suite will offer a self-service test kit or authorized lab testing, providing vendors and service providers with an accessible path to OMWi certification. Certified organizations can assure customers of consistent, reliable functionality across OMWi-compliant networks, solidifying OMWi as an industry standard.

Reach out to the WBA Program Management Office (PMO) with this form. Be part of shaping the future of Wi-Fi.

OpenRoaming for IoT – FIDO Device Onboarding Framework

The Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) and the FIDO Alliance have joined forces to integrate FIDO Device Onboard (FDO) and WBA OpenRoaming^TM technologies. This collaboration aims to create a seamless and secure onboarding process for Internet of Things (IoT) Wi-Fi devices, paralleling the simplicity and security of traditional Wi-Fi device onboarding using OpenRoaming. The OpenRoaming for IoT – FIDO Device Onboarding Framework report details how these technologies work together to simplify and secure the onboarding process for IoT devices.

The integration between OpenRoaming and FDO is a significant milestone in the realm of Wi-Fi device onboarding, and addresses critical challenges of large-scale IoT deployments by providing a secure, scalable, and automated solution. By automating the onboarding process, this allows headless and other pre-configured FDO IoT devices to be onboarded straight out of the box using OpenRoaming, it can then receive new OpenRoaming credentials, allowing it to connect via OpenRoaming permanently, or receive credentials to connect to a private Wi-Fi network for a permanent connection.

By combining OpenRoaming and FDO, the framework facilitates efficient, zero-touch device onboarding, ensuring a streamlined and secure experience for both users and network providers. This integration is a landmark achievement in Wi-Fi device onboarding, addressing key challenges in the industry and establishing a new standard for device deployment.

Key Benefits:

• Zero-touch, secure onboarding: Automates device onboarding, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring secure authentication.
• OpenRoaming and FDO integration: Describes how pre-configured OpenRoaming and FDO credentials enable seamless device connectivity across networks.
• Alternative network environments: Covers complex deployments and provisioning challenges.
• Supply chain security: Ensures device security through ownership vouchers and cryptographic mechanisms.

The OpenRoaming for IoT – FIDO Device Onboarding Framework sets a new standard for secure and efficient IoT device deployments by automating onboarding and enhancing security. This framework paves the way for widespread industry adoption, promoting cross-industry collaboration and enabling a broad range of industries to benefit from improved operational efficiency and strengthened security across their IoT networks.

RADIUS Accounting Assurance Industry Framework

Discover the transformative potential of accurate RADIUS accounting with our latest report, “RADIUS Accounting Assurance Industry Framework.” Developed by the WBA members, this comprehensive framework addresses critical challenges in RADIUS accounting practices, vital for network management and Wi-Fi roaming.

Why RADIUS Accounting Matters

Since its inception in 1997, RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial In User Service) accounting remains crucial for monitoring data usage across network access servers. As network technologies advance and demand for seamless connectivity grows, the accuracy of RADIUS accounting data is pivotal for operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

With a particular focus on Wi-Fi networks and roaming scenarios, the report highlights the need for accurate data usage tracking to ensure effective billing, analytics, and settlement processes.

Highlights and Benefits:

• Enhanced Data Accuracy: Implement standardized methodologies for detecting and correcting errors to ensure precise data reporting and billing.
• Reduced Financial Discrepancies: Address billing errors and financial disputes, especially critical in Wi-Fi roaming scenarios.
• Improved Interoperability: Promote seamless integration across diverse network equipment, enhancing system compatibility and functionality.
• Industry Best Practices: Access expert insights on standardized methods to detect, report, and handle inaccuracies for reliable data handling.
• Collaborative Efforts: Learn about initiatives led by the WBA’s Roaming Work Group and the integration into the Wireless Roaming Intermediary eXchange (WRIX) framework to unify and enhance RADIUS data management.
• Informed Decision Making: Use accurate data to make informed choices about network management, strategic planning, and capacity management.

The framework is an ongoing project, open to participation from industry stakeholders aiming to refine and enhance the reliability of RADIUS accounting. We invite industry players to join this collaborative effort to implement the proposed improvements and benefit from shared expertise, thus enhancing its effectiveness and industry acceptance.

For more information or to participate in upcoming projects, contact the WBA Program Management Office at pmo@wballiance.com.