Carrier WiFi Offload

XNET Hotspot 2.0 and Wi-Fi Carrier Offload#

An introduction guide to Hotspot 2.0
May 6, 2024

Introduction#

1. Introduction

This document provides an overview of Hotspot 2.0 and Carrier Offload technologies, explaining their benefits for XNET and how XNET can leverage these technologies to improve connectivity and network management.

2. What is Hotspot 2.0?

Hotspot 2.0, also known as Wi-Fi Certified Passpoint or Passpoint 2.0, is an industry-standard technology that automates the process of finding and connecting to Wi-Fi networks. This technology enables devices to seamlessly connect to Wi-Fi hotspots without user intervention, using a set of predefined credentials. It enhances security and improves the user experience by utilizing enterprise-grade WPA2/WPA3 security protocols.

3. What is Carrier Offload?

Carrier Offload, often referred to in the context of mobile networks, is a technique used by cellular carriers to alleviate network congestion by offloading data traffic to Wi-Fi networks. This not only helps manage the data load on cellular networks but also provides users with faster and more reliable internet access.

Benefits of Carrier Offload#

4.1 Improved Network Efficiency

By implementing Hotspot 2.0, XNET can enhance the efficiency of its network. Devices can automatically connect to the best available Wi-Fi network, reducing the load on cellular networks and improving overall data throughput.

4.2 Enhanced User Experience

The seamless connection process offered by Hotspot 2.0 eliminates the need for manual network selection and password entry, improving the user experience. This is particularly beneficial in environments with high mobility, such as airports or shopping malls.

4.3 Cost-Effective Network Expansion

Carrier Offload allows XNET to handle increased data traffic without significant investments in additional cellular infrastructure. By utilizing existing Wi-Fi hotspots, XNET can expand network coverage and capacity in a cost-effective manner.

5. How XNET Benefits Carriers Using Wi-Fi

XNET's implementation of Hotspot 2.0 and Carrier Offload provides substantial benefits to carriers:

Reduced Network Congestion: Offloading traffic to Wi-Fi reduces the load on cellular networks, especially in densely populated areas.
Improved Service Quality: Carriers can offer higher data speeds and better connectivity, enhancing the overall quality of service.
Cost Savings: Leveraging Wi-Fi for data traffic reduces the need for extensive cellular infrastructure upgrades.

Technical Overview#

6.1 Hotspot 2.0 Implementation

Hotspot 2.0 works by utilizing standards such as IEEE 802.11u for network discovery and selection, allowing devices to automatically discover network information and connect securely without user intervention. The technology utilizes standard protocols like EAP (Extensible Authentication Protocol) for authentication, ensuring security across network connections.

6.2 Carrier Offload Mechanisms

Carrier Offload involves dynamically switching from cellular to Wi-Fi networks when a Wi-Fi network is available and meets the quality of service requirements. This process is supported by protocols that manage the credentials and security automatically, ensuring a seamless user experience.

+----------+        +----------+        +----------+        +----------+
| Visited  |        |  Wi-Fi   |        |  Wi-Fi   |        | Cellular |
|  Wi-Fi   |        |   Hub    |        |   Hub    |        | Provider |
| Network  |<------>| Provider |<------>| Provider |<------>| Network  |
|          | RADIUS |          | RADIUS |          | RADIUS |          |
|   NAS    |        |  RADIUS  |        |  RADIUS  |        |  RADIUS  |
|          |<------>|  proxy   |<------>|  proxy   |<------>|  Server  |
|Passpoint | IPSec  +----------+  IPSec +----------+  IPSec +----------+   
|PLMNID(s) |

Conventional Carrier Wi-Fi

     +------------+ 
      /|\           
       |            
      \|/           
     +------------+ 
     |Passpoint   | 
     | device     |
     | with       | 
     | PLMNID     | 
     | profile    | 
     +------------+

OpenRoaming

    +------------+       +---+                      +------------+
    |  Visited   |<----->|DNS|<-------------------> |  Identity  |
    |   Wi-Fi    |       +---+                      |  Provider  |
    |  Network   |       DNS based peer             |  Network   |
    |    NAS     |       discovery       Configure  |  RADIUS    |
    | Passpoint  |<---------------------- NAPTR,    |  Server    |
    |  RCOI(s)   |       RadSec/TLS       SRV and A |            |
    |            |       secured using    Records   |            |
    |            |       mTLS and WBA PKI           |            |
    +------------+                                  +------------+
      /|\                                          
       |                                           
      \|/                                      
     +------------+ 
     |Passpoint   | 
     | device     | 
     | with       | 
     | RCOI(s)    | 
     | profile    | 
     +------------+

Conclusion

By embracing Hotspot 2.0 and Carrier Offload, XNET can enhance its network capabilities, offer a superior user experience, and achieve more efficient use of network resources. These technologies not only support current network demands but also prepare XNET for future growth and challenges in the telecommunications industry.

References