The Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) released an updated technical report, ‘Operator Managed Wi-Fi (OMWi): Reference Architecture and Requirements’. This update includes enhanced technical and operational requirements and introduces open-source, OMWi-compliant implementations from partners such as the prpl Foundation, and RDK-B.
It also 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.
The OMWi architecture integrates key industry standards, which includes the 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.
The updated framework concludes Phase 2 of the OMWi program, defining a standardised reference architecture that streamlines Wi-Fi management by unifying data collection, network configuration, and optimisation processes across systems, reducing dependence on fragmented, proprietary solutions.
The OMWi Framework addresses key needs for deploying and managing residential Wi-Fi to enable operators better manage the residential Wi-Fi experience for their customers:
- Standardised Wi-Fi management: With Wi-Fi as the primary means of Internet access for most users, and ISPs increasingly handling Wi-Fi support, a standardised management solution is essential for avoiding proprietary systems that limit compatibility across vendors and hardware. The OMWi framework provides a unified approach to Wi-Fi management
- Enhanced architecture and interoperability: Release 2 expands the architecture to support multi-AP mesh networks, topology management, and self-healing, making it easier for ISPs to manage complex deployments. It supports interoperability with Wi-Fi standards up to Wi-Fi 7, enabling integration of diverse AP configurations and third-party applications
- Streamlined deployment: Phase 2 emphasises smooth deployments with features like automatic configuration, mobile app installation guidance, loop prevention, and optimised channel management, ensuring stability in various settings
- Advanced operation and self-healing: New self-healing features, including automated channel management and client steering enhance resilience. The architecture also supports offline operation, enabling local control when cloud connectivity is unavailable
- Remote management and diagnostics: Remote diagnostics allow operators to proactively monitor network performance, reducing on-site calls and enhancing user satisfaction while ensuring data protection
- Firmware and security enhancements: A coordinated firmware upgrade system supports secure updates across multi-AP networks, with WPA3 security for end-to-end protection
- Real-world implementations and industry support: Phase 2 includes practical examples from the prpl Foundation and RDK-B, aiding faster adoption. Broad industry support highlights the architecture’s relevance and alignment with future Wi-Fi needs
“The updated OMWi framework is a key step forward in helping operators better manage the residential Wi-Fi experience for their customers, which has become the principal way devices access the internet in the home. Introducing open-source OMWi compliant implementations will drive greater cross industry interoperability for data collection, remote management and mesh formation. The move away from countless proprietary standards will be cost-effective for operators and improve the end-user experience,” said Tiago Rodrigues, CEO of the WBA.
In Phase 3, expected to begin in 2025, WBA has 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 authorised lab testing, providing vendors and service providers with an accessible path to OMWi certification. Certified organisations can assure customers of consistent, reliable functionality across OMWi-compliant networks, solidifying OMWi as an industry standard.
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