i_shakeTechnical Architecture
Problems● Internet access is too expensive.● Internet access is not widely available.● Internet access may not provide good quality of
experience for certain applications.
Solution - Cost of Service● Standardize on Wi-Fi to reduce cost. Wi-Fi has the most cost competitive
and innovative ecosystem.● Use advanced Wi-Fi mesh technology to reduce the cost of backhaul.● Simplify billing to a single flat rate plan. Network ensures fair use of
resources across users.● Automatically and in real time traffic engineer the network to make use of
available network resources.● Automate operational aspects of network where possible.● Partner with multiple ISPs and steer delay tolerant traffic across cheaper
links.● Cache content to reduce ISP load.
Solution - Network Availability● Use Wi-Fi mesh technology to extend reach of carrier
access network.● Use longhaul microwave technology if required.● Use solar power where needed.● Operate over any Carrier Access technology.
Solution - Quality of Experience● Use best in class Wi-Fi access points. Be aware of distinctions between
indoor and outdoor implementations.● Detect Skype voice flows, prioritize and condition for best quality.● Detect video flows, prioritize and condition for good quality.● Automatically and in real time traffic engineer the network to make use of
available network resources.● Cache content at local data center to avoid delays and congestion over
ISP links.● Ensure all users get equal access to available network capacity.● Automatically adjust RF parameters to achieve good network performance.
Network Overview
i_shakeData
Center
ISP1
Carrier Access Provider
2ISP2
Wi-Fi Controller
Carrier Access Provider
1
Traffic Manager
AAA Server
AP
APAPAP
MPAPAP
MP
AP
AP
AP
AP
Wi-Fi Mesh
Cache ServerMicrowave Link
Network ComponentsWi-Fi Mesh: A collection of APs that self form to create a network. A special MP (Mesh Portal) serves as a portal to the wired network. The MP also distributes load across the mesh and may rate limit individual subscribers.
Carrier Access Provider: An access network provided by the local carrier. May be dark fiber, metro-ethernet, DSL, etc.
Microwave Link: Microwave links may be used to connect MPs to Carrier Access networks.
i_shake Data Center: A Data Center where all the network servers are located. It is also the main hub that connects the access network with the Internet.
Wi-Fi Controller: Controls the configuration and management of the APs and centralizes session authentication and authorization. It also centralizes RF management to optimize network performance.
AAA Server: Handles AAA functions for subscribers. Can also proxy for other AAA servers for roaming.
Cache Server: Caches Web content to avoid using ISP links where possible.
Traffic Manager:● Analyzes traffic flows and selects most economical link for flow based on application QoS requirements.● Marks voice and video traffic for improved QoS at the AP and ISP links.● Ensures per subscriber fair scheduling on ISP links