Multi-Dwelling Units: How OpenWiFi is Solving Common Connectivity Issues

In today's connected world, reliable WiFi has become a critical utility for multi-dwelling units (MDUs), often ranking among the top factors potential tenants consider when choosing a place to live. However, MDUs present unique challenges for WiFi deployment and management. The high-density environment, with numerous users in close proximity, often leads to signal interference and congestion across the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. This interference is exacerbated by the physical structure of MDUs, where concrete walls and metal fixtures can significantly attenuate wireless signals.

Bandwidth allocation becomes a critical issue as multiple users compete for limited network resources, potentially resulting in degraded performance during peak usage times. MDUs require a delicate balance between providing individual user privacy and maintaining overall network security. The need for separate networks or VLANs for different units or purposes adds complexity to the network architecture. Additionally, the dynamic nature of tenant turnover necessitates a flexible system for onboarding and offboarding users while maintaining network integrity.
 

Wi-Fi – The New Utility

Property managers often struggle with these technical demands, especially when dealing with legacy systems that weren't designed for the evolving needs of modern MDUs. Many property developers and managers lack specialized IT expertise, finding themselves ill-equipped to handle the complexities of modern WiFi networks. This skills gap becomes increasingly problematic as WiFi has evolved from a luxury amenity to a critical utility.

Enter OpenWiFi - a revolutionary solution that addresses these challenges by providing a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective platform, established by the Telecom Infra Project in 2019. OpenWiFi represents a shift in approach to wireless networking, particularly relevant for MDU deployments. At its core, OpenWiFi is an open-source, disaggregated WiFi system that separates the software from the hardware components. This separation allows for greater flexibility in network design and implementation.

Bringing it all together

EPS Global, a leader in the OpenWiFi ecosystem, offers comprehensive services to guide MDU operators through the implementation process. With extensive partnerships across leading disaggregated hardware and software vendors, EPS Global is uniquely positioned to help property managers navigate the complexities of OpenWiFi deployment. Their expertise ensures that MDUs can fully leverage the benefits of this innovative technology while minimizing potential pitfalls.

OpenWiFi Hardware & Software

The OpenWiFi system comprises a cloud-based SDK and enterprise-grade access point firmware, both designed to work cohesively across various hardware platforms. Hardware vendors like Edgecore Networks and IO by HFCL offer OpenWiFi-compatible devices such as the EAP101 and the ion4xi, Wi-Fi 6 indoor access points, as well as Edgecore's ECS4650-54P PoE switch, featuring 48x 1GbE PoE ports (and 6x SFP28 25G uplink ports). On the software side, companies such as NetExperience deliver cloud management solutions that leverage the OpenWiFi SDK, offering intuitive interfaces for network control and monitoring. IP Infusion contributes to the ecosystem with their OcNOS network operating system, which can be used in conjunction with OpenWiFi to create comprehensive network solutions.

Why Disaggregation Makes Sense for MDU Deployments

For MDU deployments, this disaggregation offers several technical advantages. It enables network administrators to select hardware that best fits the specific structural and environmental conditions of their property, without being locked into a single vendor's ecosystem. The open-source nature of OpenWiFi facilitates community-driven development and rapid feature iteration, potentially allowing MDU networks to adapt more quickly to emerging technologies and standards.

For the Engineers

From an engineering perspective, OpenWiFi's architecture supports advanced features like Zero-Touch Provisioning (ZTP), which can significantly streamline the deployment process in large-scale MDU environments. The system's support for standardized APIs allows for integration with existing property management systems or the development of custom tools tailored to specific MDU operational needs.

The architecture of OpenWiFi addresses the scalability demands inherent in large MDU properties. Its cloud-native design allows for efficient management of numerous access points across multiple floors or buildings from a centralized platform. This centralization is crucial for maintaining consistent performance and security policies throughout the property. The system employs a microservices-based approach, enabling independent scaling of different network functions as demand grows.

OpenWiFi incorporates several features that directly address the unique needs of MDU residents. The system's support for multiple SSIDs allow s for the creation of separate networks for different purposes, such as individual tenant networks, guest access, and building management systems. Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms enable prioritization of traffic types, ensuring that critical applications maintain performance even during periods of high network utilization. The implementation of 802.11k, v, and r standards facilitates seamless roaming within the property, allowing tenants to move between access points without experiencing disconnections.

Total Cost of Ownership Savings

One of the most compelling aspects of OpenWiFi for MDU operators is its potential for significant cost savings. The open-source nature of OpenWiFi eliminates licensing fees typically associated with proprietary solutions, potentially reducing upfront costs by 60-70%. In terms of operational expenses, OpenWiFi's centralized management capabilities can lead to reduced staff hours for network maintenance and troubleshooting, offering potential OPEX savings of up to 70%.

How to get started with OpenWiFi

As you consider upgrading your MDU's wireless infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of your tenants, EPS Global stands ready to assist. Their comprehensive partnerships across the OpenWiFi landscape offer a unique position to guide your project from concept to reality. Don't let the complexity of modern wireless networking hold your property back. Reach out to EPS Global today to explore how they can transform your MDU's connectivity, enhance tenant satisfaction, and streamline your network management. Let them help you turn the promise of OpenWiFi into a reality for your property, ensuring a future-proof, high-performance wireless network for your MDU.