Nokia, Kinetic use application containers to broadband devices

Nokia has announced Kinetic by Windstream is the first communications service provider (CSP) to use its application in containers solution. The Arkansas-based operator, which provides high speed broadband services across 18 states, is deploying the new container framework on its Nokia Beacon 6 broadband devices, available to 300,000 customers. Application containers enable the simple introduction of new services remotely from the network. Windstream’s initial value-added service to subscribers is F-Secure’s cybersecurity and parental control solution.

Traditionally, new services for in-home WiFi either need to be added to customer devices before shipment or require an entire device software upgrade to install them post deployment. With the container framework, Nokia introduces an isolated environment within its devices where applications can run using dedicated resources, such as CPU power and memory, without impacting normal router functions. The container separates the applications from the device operating system meaning the life cycle of the application can be managed directly by the operator using standard remote device management protocols (TR-069 / TR-369), and independently of the device’s software updates.

Brian Ragsdale, Director of Product Management, Kinetic by Windstream, said: “We serve broadband customers in 18 states throughout America. Each customer has distinct requirements from cyber security to gaming optimization. We are now able to provide these value-add services on an on-demand basis, directly to their existing broadband device. We plan on launching more subscriber services empowered by Nokia’s application container framework to meet the growing needs of end-users and create more stickiness to our Kinetic broadband services”

Dmitri Vellikok, Vice President, Network Security Business at F-Secure, said: ” We are excited about our ongoing partnership with Nokia. Windstream’s project is a prime showcase of how containerized gateway security software can be easily delivered using Nokia’s modern container framework and remote management platform. That, combined with Nokia’s delivery expertise and professional support for 3rd party software vendors, made the project a mutual success with minimal resources and timely launch.”

Justin Doucette, Head of Nokia WiFi said: “We project 30 percent of broadband-connected homes will use third party applications and services within containers by 2025. Congratulations to Windstream for being the first. At Nokia, we are committed to being leaders in technology and container application is no exception. We are enabling both communication service providers and third-party developers to quickly bring new services to market, which will excite end users and increase average revenue per user for operators.”

CT Bureau