A WiFi Access Gateway, or a Wireless Access Gateway, is an element in a network that serves to route data packets from a wireless LAN to another network, be it a wired or wireless WAN. In today’s network architecture, WAGs can be implemented as hardware or software (which we call virtual WAG, or vWAG).
WAGs combine the functions of a wireless access point, a router, and often provide firewall functions. In addition, they provide network address translation (NAT) functionality and dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP), which allows multiple users to connect to the internet with a single public IP and to automatically assign IPs to devices connected to a network.
Essentially, WAGs help service providers manage traffic and apply subscriber policies.
WAGs make it possible to:
From a big picture perspective, WAGs, particularly vWAGs, make it easier for teams to be more versatile and dynamic with their network management and changes/releases. vWAGs also offer incredible promise for edge computing, uCPE adoption, and more.
A WAG empowers operators and service providers to be flexible and agile in expanding their product offerings, and for customers this is a huge deal. WAGs make it possible for consumers to be able to subscribe to new services like WiFi Hotspots, managed business networks, managed home networks, and so much more. Many of these services cultivate customer loyalty and build customer advocates that can help expand an organizations reach.
a WAG makes it possible to build a network that is flexible and frictionless for customers, and ultimately provides the ability to evolve with the needs of your customers.
If your team is looking to transition to a WAG or vWAG – let us know! We’d be happy to lend a hand.