Static MLMR backhaul configuration (MLO Backhaul)
General
OpenSync 7.0 now supports Wi-Fi 7 Backhaul Multi-Link Operation (MLO) links between OpenSync nodes. The primary development for the leading platform focused on Qualcomm SPF12.x adaptations and ensuring interoperability for extender scenarios, addressing limitations in data path realization.
Implementation Outline
MLO implementation included provisioning adjustments, Board Support Package (BSP) level fixes (e.g., wpa_s, driver), and adaptations to make OpenSync Wireless Management (OWM) components more MLO-aware. Examples of these adaptations include l2uf, steering Low Water Mark (LWM), and non-MLO association redirection. Essentially, MLO backhaul in SPF 12.x is achieved by introducing extra network devices (netdevs) and Wireless Physical Layer wiphy/radio interfaces for merged per-band radios.
To enable a usable Wi-Fi 7 OpenSync extender for MLO backhaul, Traffic Control (TC) mirrored action was utilized, requiring minimal work. The majority of the effort involved internal OpenSync Wireless (OSW) components and the controller orchestration state machine.
Broadcom and MediaTek MLO backhaul support will come in next 7.0.x releases.
Northbound API
No additional changes
Southbound API
No additional changes
Requirements
No additional changes