The open-source OpenSync framework enables an SDN approach for operators to deploy programmable services in networking devices.

Among the many hardware vendors that support OpenSync is Zyxel Communications, which is now out with the new EX7710 Wi-Fi 6E 10G Ethernet Gateway. As one of the first OpenSync-certified products on the market compatible with the 10G specification that supports symmetrical 10 Gb/s throughput speeds, the new gateway unlocks the full potential of OpenSync's cloud-based management platform.

OpenSync was originally developed by Plume, but was spun out as an independent open-source project in 2018. OpenSync integration allows the EX7710 to access a range of smart home services offered through Plume’s HomePass and WorkPass suites. These include adaptive Wi-Fi optimization, robust cybersecurity protections, advanced parental controls and more. The open-source OpenSync framework enables remote delivery of these services from the cloud without requiring expensive hardware upgrades.

"Since OpenSync is a cloud-based solution, some of the enhancements can be done in the cloud to have faster time-to-market," Jason Han, director of product management at Zyxel, told SDxCentral. "Service providers don’t need to spend a long lab cycle to certify a new firmware for new enhancements."  

OpenSync is already integrated into certified customer premises equipment (CPE), such as Wi-Fi gateways, pods and extenders, by many broadband device makers.

The OpenSync project claims that the technology has been deployed by over 350 service providers, and powers connectivity for over 50 million locations globally, including homes and small businesses.

OpenSync provides a complete framework for communication service providers, original device manufacturers (ODMs), consumer device manufacturers and cloud service developers to deliver smart home residential and intelligent small business services quickly. The technology decouples services and applications from the underlying hardware and enables delivery through the cloud. Through standardized management APIs, services can be developed, deployed and upgraded seamlessly from the cloud without modifications to the CPE software.

Han noted that the EX7710 and Zyxel products are not being directly sold to consumers. Rather, all of the company's products are sold to broadband service providers for them to deploy as part of their broadband services.

As to why OpenSync matters for Zyxel and its users, it all has to do with choice. Han said that Zyxel's approach has always been openness when it comes to remote management options, leaving the decision up to the service providers as to which platform best fits their needs. Partnering with Plume to offer OpenSync adds to that, and with the ongoing race to offer multi-gig services, Han said that certifying the Zyxel 10G gateway for OpenSync was a perfect fit.

"We’ve put a lot of effort and resources into integrating OpenSync into our devices and it required additional discussions with chipset vendors," Han said.

The EX7710 Wi-Fi 6E Gateway provides multi-gigabit speeds up to 10 Gb/s, optimized bandwidth utilization and increased network capacity for simultaneous streaming over Wi-Fi 6E. With support for 10G fiber internet connections, the gateway can fully extend premium broadband speeds throughout the home.

Han noted that the EX7710 gateway with OpenSync offers a tri-band experience by adding 6 GHz support with the latest and greatest Wi-Fi 6E.

"We’ve also included a nonblocking design for a 10 gig experience with a dedicated 10G Ethernet WAN and LAN," he said. "Both go a long way in improving the subscriber experience, providing even more wireless access to bandwidth and helping to alleviate congestion."

Ed note, Nov. 15, 2023: Corrected the year OpenSync spun out from Plume from 2020 to 2018.