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OpenRoaming™

Seamless, secure and reliable connection to various Wi-Fi networks - worldwide!

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OpenRoaming™

Challenge

Using a public Wi-Fi hotspot is anything but seamless. Typically, users first land on a portal page where they must accept terms of use or view advertisements. In some countries, such as Switzerland, regulations require additional identification, usually via an SMS token, boarding pass (e.g., at airports), or credit card information (e.g., in hotels). This can be particularly problematic for tourists from certain countries.

Objective

OpenRoaming™ aims to provide users with a seamless, secure, and reliable connection to various Wi-Fi networks worldwide, without requiring them to register at each access point or disclose their identity. This is particularly beneficial in places like hotels, convention centres, stadiums, shopping malls, or public transport. It is also highly advantageous for tourists from certain countries, as SMS-based registration often causes issues. Likewise, for business visits to clients and suppliers, a hassle-free internet connection without the need to arrange passwords would be highly practical.

Solution

OpenRoaming™ is an innovative approach developed by the Wireless Broadband Alliance, working similarly to mobile network roaming. When approaching an OpenRoaming™-enabled Wi-Fi network, a user’s device automatically detects the available hotspot and connects. Authentication is handled through a secure, standardised process, enabling users to access the internet without any manual interaction – regardless of the provider or location. Thanks to encrypted connections, data remains securely transmitted at all times.

Entities Involved

The implementation of this system requires two types of companies: Identity Providers (IDPs) and Access Network Providers (ANPs).

IDPs manage large user bases and can authenticate them. Examples include telecom providers such as Swisscom, Deutsche Telekom, Eduroam (the university network), or SwissPass for Swiss Railways. These IDPs authenticate users and grant them access to OpenRoaming™-compatible networks.


ANPs are public Wi-Fi infrastructure providers, such as Zurich Airport, Swiss Railways (SBB), or tourist establishments. OpenRoaming™ enables users from different Identity Providers (e.g., Deutsche Telekom customers) to automatically and securely connect to all participating public Wi-Fi infrastructures without requiring additional registration or authentication.

Could your company envision becoming part of the rapidly growing OpenRoaming™ community as an IDP or ANP? onway has both the technical solutions and the expertise to support you in this role successfully. We would be delighted to advise you!

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