Anyfi Networks launches Wi-Fi over IP software

Anyfi may offer a quicker and more streamlined means of accessing Wi-Fi networks

Swedish firm Anyfi Networks has announced a new Wi-Fi roaming technology that it claims will " shake up the mobile broadband industry" by offering a virtual Wi-Fi network which can be accessed anywhere in the world.

The company explained that the service allows a device to pick up networks and connect to any access points in public or corporate environments where Anyfi's software has been installed.

"By distributing our software for operators to include in their network devices, we can create a virtual Wi-Fi network that any smartphones and laptops can log-on to wherever a connection is present," said Anyfi chief executive Björn Smedman.

Smedman claimed that security is one of the unique aspects of the technology as it provides the fixed Wi-Fi access point and the mobile user with the same level of security throughout, unlike existing systems.

The technology's ability to offer traffic prioritisation for the fixed-line user ahead of mobile users who may be jumping on their network, and its simplicity in configuring devices to the Anyfi network, are the software's key selling points, according to Smedman.

"It will take some time for this technology to be implemented, but we believe we have the time to do this and that there is a requirement for a system like this to help mobile operators cope with the rising amount of data on their networks," he said.

The company claimed that, theoretically, any user in the world could connect to an Anyfi.net access point and receive unlimited mobile internet access and data coverage for a fixed line price or a cheap Wi-Fi charge.

Fernando Elizalde, a principal analyst at Gartner, suggested that technology of this nature will become increasingly important to help operators ease mobile data network pressure as the number of 3G-enabled devices grows.

"At one time it looked as if mobile broadband would kill off the need for hotspots, but the rise of smartphones, laptops using dongles and tablet devices like the iPad mean that transferring data to Wi-Fi networks is actually very useful," he said.

Elizalde added that the ability to seamlessly connect through the Anyfi network could give the firm an advantage over other technologies of this nature by providing a quicker and more streamlined means of accessing Wi-Fi networks.

Anyfi Networks has produced a video demonstrating the benefits of its technology.