Wi-Fi Roaming – Building On ANDSFAnd Hotspot2.0

Alcatel-Lucent

Abstract:

"This research collaboration paper between Alcatel-Lucent and BT describes the need for Heterogeneous Network Policies in a multi-operator environment. It analyses how new standards like the 3GPP Access Network Discovery and Selection Function (ANDSF) and the Hotspot2.0 initiative can complement each other to meet those needs whilst identifying a number of use-case scenarios where further standards work is required.

ANDSF is a cellular technology standard which allows an operator to provide a list of preferred access networks with policies for their use up to the granularity of a single IP flow or all traffic for a given PDN network (APN). IEEE 80211u and WFA Hotspot2.0 are Wi-Fi technology standards that allow devices to more easily discover Wi-Fi roaming relationships, determine access point capabilities and loading conditions, and more easily connect to Wi-Fi networks securely.

The combination of ANDSF and Hotspot2.0 is a particularly powerful enabler for a pain-free user experience across Wi-Fi and cellular networks.

The analysis identifies some proposals for further discussion and outlines potential contributions to the relevant standard bodies that we believe could improve the user and operator experience of heterogeneous network."

Please complete and submit this form to have the white paper delivered straight to your inbox