Cloudlet- and NFV-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 past few years, Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) have been extensively deployed and have significantly evolved. However, the deployment of large-scale WLAN still presents management issues. Moreover, while newer WLAN technologies and services have been emerging at a prolific rate, the architecture of WLAN networks has been quite static and has seen difficulties 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 allows operators to easily implement new services while reducing CAPEX/OPEX and network equipment costs (e.g., access points).

Mots clés: Cloudlet; Software-based WLAN architecture; Carrier-grade WLAN; MAC layer; Network Function Virtualization; WLAN emerging services

Domaines: Réseaux et télécommunications [cs.NI]

Fatma Ben Jemaa, Guy Pujolle, Michel Pariente. Cloudlet- and NFV-based carrier Wi-Fi architecture for a wider range of services. Annals of Telecommunications - annales des télécommunications, 2016, 71 (11), pp.617-624. ⟨10.1007/s12243-016-0504-0⟩. ⟨hal-01292428⟩