Redback Networks unveiled a new "Dynamic Subscriber Identification" technology to enable identification and authentication of individual subscribers and devices built for broadband Internet access. The technology, which is included in the latest software release for Redback's SmartEdge Service Gateway platform, enables the service provider to offer customized bandwidth, QoS and other services on a device-by-device basis, while preserving the interaction with back office billing systems.
Dynamic Subscriber Identification accommodates Internet-enabled devices, such as set-top boxes, gaming consoles, IP telephones, handheld communicators and computers with WiFi connectivity, over multiple types of broadband access modes, including xDSL, Ethernet, fiber, wireless etc. For instance, a service provider can supply an overall Internet bandwidth and then apply a specific bandwidth for specific devices or subscribers, such as a minimum guaranteed bandwidth for a VoIP telephone or Video on Demand session to a set-top box. Traditional xDSL access requires a Point-to-Point (PPP) protocol to initiate a session. Now, Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) requests can be integrated with a RADIUS Authentication, Authorization and Accounting (AAA) and applied to a specific subscriber.
Redback said some of the Dynamic Subscriber Identification capabilities include:
- Support for both client- and clientless-Internet devices
- Full support for all PPP and DHCP protocol implementations
- Integration of an EAP client for login on a wireless network
- Ability to support web browser-based logins in conjunction with Redback's NetOp Policy Manager and a RADIUS database
- Accommodation of devices with static IP addresses
- Support for multiple devices within a single Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) and NAS Port connection
- Identification by a Media Access Control (MAC) address
