South African operator VAST Networks has selected Benu Networks, a virtual network solution provider, to deploy the first carrier-grade mobile offload network on the African continent
The aim is to deliver affordable connectivity, save on expensive spectrum and improve customer experience.
VAST Networks enables mobile subscribers to connect seamlessly and securely to thousands of VAST hotspots across Africa. Subscribers can access all their cellular services on the Wi-Fi network and benefit from a faster-improved service when connected via Wi-Fi.
VAST Networks can host multiple service providers on the same network, and provide an easy and secure authentication method via subscribers’ SIM cards.
The Virtual Service Edge (VSE) platform of Benu Networks provides an enhanced Wi-Fi experience when enabling mobile data to offload and Wi-Fi roaming services. The VSE platform enables VAST to offer seamless Wi-Fi offloading and roaming to its partners on a single SSID footprint, thereby optimising spectrum efficiency and operating costs.
In addition, the VSE of Benu Networks incorporates vBNG and vG functions as defined in the broadband forum standards and supports a wide variety of tunnelling and encapsulation mechanisms required to connect to mobile operator packet core networks.
Khetan Gajjar, chief technology officer at VAST Networks, stated, “Benu’s Virtual Service Edge architecture continues to outperform competitive alternatives with its ability to easily address complex challenges while providing unrivalled scalability, seamless integration, impressive cost advantages, and optimal user experience.”
Mads Lillelund, CEO of Benu Networks, said, “Benu Networks is elated to assist VAST Networks in overcoming today’s most critical mobile data challenges while achieving the highest return on investment. Our Virtual Service Edge platform enables the launch of next-generation services that provide the highest level of QoS and revenue generation to achieve the most optimal, cost-efficient network.”
