LAviNet is a software solution for a lean, pervasive and dynamic wireless access infrastructure network. Smart Access Points (APs) can cost-effectively cover most of the area, but it is hard to eliminate all the blind spots. LAviNet can complement those APs with its flexibility, intelligent channel assignment and routing to achieve ubiquitous wireless access. It is a research project supported by HK Innovation and Technology Commission and carried out by Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and with strong supports from the industry.

LAviNet offers two software products:

1.  LAviNet Mesh: Embedded mesh network software build on top of the firmware of existing APs.
2.  LAviNet Manager: A server application that monitors and manages wireless network with web-based interface.

• Self configuration, self adjustment, self healing

• Best path selection

• Multiple paths with fast switching

•  Intelligent channel assignment: Minimize interference and maximize overall throughput

•  Layer 2 switching and layer 3 dynamic routing

• Client and mesh node roaming and tracking

• Support OSPF and RIP routing protocol

• Dynamically adjusted for optimal network performance, load-balancing, and throughput improvement

•  Flexibility, plug-and-play and easy to deploy

• Transparency: Compatible with most existing Wi-Fi APs and end-clients

• Existing AP add-on: Support features on existing AP, such as

• 802.11 a/b/g/n operating modes,

• WEP/WAP/WAP2 security standards,

• proprietary antenna technologies

•  Enable interoperatability among mesh routers from different vendors

• Distributed wireless LAN architecture

• Support hidden SSID: Prevent accidental association

• Support multiple SSIDs: Establish standalone authentication and encryption schemes

• Support VLAN: logical group of clients

Key Features of LAviNet Manager

•  Ease to use, light weight and high performance

•  Web interface runs on multiple browsers

• Single interface for multiple networks

•  Remote network control and management using CAPWAP protocol

•  Realtime visual representation of outdoor topology using  Google Maps

• Realtime visual representation of indoor topology using  user defined floorplan

• Realtime status monitoring of mesh gateway, mesh nodes and clients associations

• Statistic collection and presentation of client associations and network throughput

•  ManagerBackup that provides realtime data syncronisation to the backup server with disaster recovery mechanism

Our project is ready for live trials in real industrial environment. We are continuously looking for partners to evaluate and improve our technology. Please feel free to contact us for collaboration opportunities.