Towards Software- Based Carrier Wi-Fi Architecture for a Wider Range of Services

Fatma Ben Jemaa (1) , Guy Pujolle (1) , Michel Pariente (2)

1 Phare
2 Meteor Network

Over the last years, Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) have been extensively deployed and have significantly evolved. However, the deployment of large-scale WLAN still has management issues. Moreover, while newer WLAN technologies and services have been emerging at a prolific rate, the architecture of WLAN networks has largely been static and difficult to evolve. In this paper, we present a novel architecture for carrier-managed WLAN networks which leverages Network Function Virtualization concepts and virtualization technology in general. It is based on a WLAN Cloudlet which offloads MAC layer processing from access points and consolidates network functions and value-added services. All these functions and services are based on software instances. This brings more flexibility and adaptability and permits to easily implement new services while reducing CAPEX/OPEX and network equipment cost (e.g., access points).

Domaines: Réseaux et télécommunications [cs.NI]

Fatma Ben Jemaa, Guy Pujolle, Michel Pariente. Towards Software- Based Carrier Wi-Fi Architecture for a Wider Range of Services. IEEE GLOBECOM 2015, Dec 2015, San Diego, CA, United States. pp.1-6, ⟨10.1109/GLOCOMW.2015.7414093⟩. ⟨hal-01331952⟩