WBA white papers

Wi-Fi 7 Trial Report for Residential Deployments by CableLabs and Intel

Building on its initial initiatives with the report “Get Ready for Wi-Fi 7: Applying New Capabilities to Key Use Cases,” the WBA highlights the transformative potential of Wi-Fi 7 for industries worldwide. To advance this vision, WBA is conducting Wi-Fi 7 field trials with its participating members to evaluate and validate the key capabilities of Wi-Fi in real-life various deployment scenarios.

As part of this initiative, CableLabs and Intel collaborated on a multi-phase project to test Wi-Fi 7 in residential settings. Phase 1 focused on evaluating the performance and coverage of Wi-Fi 7, assessing its benefits over previous generations. This report presents performance data from testing Wi-Fi 7 and Wi-Fi 6E in a typical home environment, quantifying the improvements. The findings show that Wi-Fi 7 delivered significant enhancements over Wi-Fi 6, achieving up to 3.5 Gbps TCP throughput.

The project team is continuing Phase 2 of the Wi-Fi 7 trials, further exploring the benefits of MLO with a focus on latency, coverage, and additional throughput improvements. Contact WBA to join the upcoming Wi-Fi 7 trial project today!

6G Vision Statement

Wi-Fi and cellular are the two most adopted wireless broadband technologies in the world, available in billions of devices and used daily by billions of users all around the world. To date, both technologies have been evolving from the standards point of view, on independent paths, resulting in separate technical standards, architectures, and industry ecosystems.

While the cellular standards organizations have made efforts to integrate these systems and positive progress has been made, with converged solutions like Wi-Fi Calling or SIM-based seamless Wi-Fi authentication, broader real-world adoption and implementation have lagged for reasons including the need to harmonize fragmented user experiences, complexity of non-3GPP access methods, costs related to implementation complexity, and the need to learn from previous cellular generations.

WBA’s introductory report on 6G’s potential transformative role titled, “6G – WBA Vision Statement”  calls for greater collaboration between all stakeholders if 6G is to deliver on its promise, and details five key vision points for 6G, to achieve ubiquitous connectivity that comprises Wi-Fi, cellular, non-terrestrial networks, IoT LPWANs, and other wireless technologies at its core.

WBA would like to acknowledge the input and support from WBA Members, AT&T, Airties, Boingo Wireless, Boldyn Networks, BT, Charter, Cisco, Comcast, HFCL, Intel, Reliance Jio and Turk Telekom.

Download the report now!

Private 5G and Wi-Fi Convergence Report: Phase 2 – Technical Considerations

The Private 5G and Wi-Fi Convergence Report: Phase 2 – Technical Considerations builds on the Phase 1 insights, which identified key use cases and highlighted the essential role of Wi-Fi in optimizing 5G performance. This new report delves into advanced architectural strategies and technical solutions, setting the stage for seamless interworking between Wi-Fi and 5G.

This report marks the next phase in 5G and Wi-Fi integration, offering a practical roadmap for enterprises to maximize performance, efficiency, and cost savings by leveraging both networks. This convergence enables enterprises to benefit from the high-speed, low-latency capabilities of 5G, combined with Wi-Fi’s broad coverage and adaptability for varied use cases and industries.

Key technical solutions include the use of Service Functions—widely deployed features like security, WAN acceleration, and load balancing—to enhance network operations. The report also explores connectivity status sharing across networks for optimized performance, and improved latency by strategically managing user traffic across Wi-Fi and Private 5G.

Looking Ahead to Phase 3

In 2025, Private 5G & Wi-Fi Convergence – Phase 3 will focus on establishing an industry standard for RAN convergence. Key developments will include vector roaming, Access Traffic Steering, Switching, and Splitting (ATSSS), along with enhancements to Quality of Experience (QoE). These advancements aim to create a seamless, unified framework for the future of converged networks.

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

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.

WBA OpenRoaming™ Introduction Guide

OpenRoaming offers a seamless, secure, and automatic Wi-Fi experience akin to cellular roaming. By bridging the gap between Wi-Fi networks worldwide, OpenRoaming simplifies connectivity for users, enhancing user experiences while maintaining robust security standards. This comprehensive guide, provided by the Wireless Broadband Alliance, delves into the technicalities, benefits, and strategic implementation of OpenRoaming to revolutionize public, guest, and enterprise Wi-Fi networks.

Who Should Read This Guide?

This guide is indispensable for network operators, service providers, technology vendors, and enterprise IT professionals who are looking to enhance their Wi-Fi service capabilities and offer a superior user experience.

Wi-Fi Experience for Moving Networks

In today’s connected world, reliable Wi-Fi is essential, even on the go. The “Wi-Fi Experience for Moving Networks” report delves into the critical need to improve Wi-Fi connectivity in dynamic environments such as buses, trains, planes, and ships. These moving networks face unique challenges, from fluctuating connectivity to security concerns, that require tailored solutions.

Key Insights:

• Challenges in Moving Networks: The report identifies key issues such as inconsistent service quality, handover difficulties, security risks, and the complexities of deploying Wi-Fi in moving vehicles.
• Innovative Solutions: It offers practical solutions like implementing advanced standards (Passpoint®), improving network transitions, enhancing security, and ensuring service continuity even during disruptions.
• Practical Use Cases: Detailed use cases demonstrate how to streamline Wi-Fi connectivity, enhance user engagement through landing pages, offer tiered service models, and maintain continuous connectivity throughout a journey.
• Industry Benefits: By adopting these strategies, the Wi-Fi industry can improve passenger experiences, reduce operational costs, increase revenue opportunities, and stay ahead of technological advancements.

The WBA invites industry stakeholders, including infrastructure providers, airlines, train and bus operators, and mobile device manufacturers, to participate in trials aimed at addressing these challenges and exploring next-generation Wi-Fi technologies.

Download the full report now to explore actionable insights and strategies to optimize connectivity in moving networks and drive business success.

For organizations eager to share relevant use cases and learning, we encourage you to reach out to the WBA Program Management Office (PMO) with this form. Be part of shaping the future of Wi-Fi.

WBA Access Network Metrics – Phase 1

The WBA Access Network Metrics Working Group is dedicated to crafting a framework that effectively communicates the Quality of Experience (QoE) of Wi-Fi access networks to stakeholders. This encompasses mobile operators using commercial cellular offload, participants in roaming consortiums like WBA OpenRoaming™, users of settlement-free Passpoint services, and enterprises that need reliable connections to third-party Wi-Fi networks.

This ‘Access Network Metrics’ report initiates the first phase, assessing the need for access network metrics and proposing methods essential for capturing data to evaluate networks, leveraging key indicators to quantify network performance.

The paper emphasizes the need for clear QoE evidence and identifies use cases that enhance the experience for both users and providers. It outlines crucial metrics and provides a roadmap for advancing this initiative with the necessary calculations and data communication methods. The report delves into standard Wi-Fi metrics and offers advice on how Wi-Fi devices can leverage detailed QoE metrics for smarter roaming choices, thus improving both user satisfaction and provider performance. It addresses the challenges present in current Wi-Fi networks, reaffirms the value of explicit QoE evidence, and demonstrates the advantages for users and providers. The research specifies essential metrics and introduces a framework for assessing and sharing Wi-Fi network quality, aiming to foster a more dependable and efficient Wi-Fi future.

The working group is now embarking on Phase 2, focusing on industry alignment regarding how applications become aware of network QoS. Notably, 3GPP has introduced a Network Exposure Function (NEF) that allows an application function to receive notifications about analytics related to user data congestion, network performance, QoS sustainability, and service experience. Phase 2 will explore the potential reuse and/or adaptation of 3GPP NEF-based approaches to support the Wi-Fi use cases identified.

Wi-Fi HaLow for IoT Field Trials Report

Building on the successful real-world applications of Phase 1 of the Wi-Fi HaLow  for IoT project across multiple sectors, which demonstrated deployed IEEE 802.11ah Wi-Fi HaLow ability to provide reliable, long-range, low-power connectivity, making it an ideal solution for a variety of IoT scenarios.

The “Wi-Fi HaLow for IoT: Field Trials Report” demonstrated the effectiveness of IEEE 802.11ah Wi-Fi HaLow, which provides reliable, long-range, and low-power connectivity across diverse IoT scenarios. Notably, the trials were conducted in the United States, showcasing the technology’s scalability and efficiency in dense urban areas and large industrial settings.

This comprehensive report details significant enhancements in range, material penetration, battery life, device density, security, installation, management, and data throughput compared to existing Wi-Fi standards. Application use cases tested include Smart Home, Warehousing, Smart Farm, Smart City, Smart Office Building, Smart School Campus, and Smart Industrial Complex, focusing on large-scale implementations and the challenges posed by different environments.

The WBA now invites industry players from EMEA and APAC to engage in the upcoming Phase 3 trials, aiming to further explore and expand the capabilities of Wi-Fi HaLow technology in diverse environments and applications.

For organizations eager to share relevant use cases and learning, we encourage you to reach out to the WBA Program Management Office (PMO) with this form. Be part of shaping the future of Wi-Fi.

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.

Venue Requirements for User Engagement

The “Venue Requirements for User Engagement” report provides essential insights into optimizing user engagement and revenue opportunities in public Wi-Fi deployment. It emphasizes understanding user needs and leveraging technologies like OpenRoaming™ and Passpoint® to enhance connectivity and user experiences.

By prioritizing user engagement, businesses can reduce costs, increase revenue streams, ensure regulatory compliance, gain a competitive advantage, and facilitate Wi-Fi roaming. This comprehensive guide equips industry stakeholders with best practices to improve overall user experiences and drive business success in the dynamic landscape of public Wi-Fi provision.

The report underscores the critical need for industry stakeholders to prioritize user engagement in Wi-Fi network design and operation. By understanding and addressing the requirements of both venues and users, businesses can enhance the overall user experience, reduce costs, and unlock new revenue opportunities.

The benefits for operators and venues that improve user engagement include:

• Cost Reduction & Cost Control: Implementing efficient onboarding processes and standardized interfaces can help reduce the costs associated with managing and maintaining Wi-Fi networks, especially for venues with high user traffic.
• Increased Revenue Opportunities: By offering seamless and engaging user experiences, venues can attract more users, leading to potential revenue streams through advertising, pay-as-you-go models, or partnerships with third parties and roaming services.
• Regulatory Compliance: Understanding and implementing best practices for user engagement can help industry players comply with regulatory requirements related to user privacy, data protection, and network security.
• Competitive Advantage: Industry players that excel in user engagement and provide a seamless Wi-Fi experience can gain a competitive edge in the market, attracting more customers and partners.
• Wi-Fi roaming: Facilitated by the WBA’s OpenRoaming Federation, Wi-Fi roaming offers venues a valuable revenue stream and enhanced user experience. It simplifies Wi-Fi connectivity for users, ensuring secure network access and increasing customer satisfaction. Roaming can also be a form of user exchange, allowing seamless connectivity across partnerships, enriching and simplifying the user experience.

To organizations keen on sharing relevant use cases and insights on Wi-Fi, we invite you to connect with the WBA Program Management Office (PMO) at pmo@wballiance.com