Did you know that in recent years, the number of new-style Wi-Fi spots using OpenRoaming has been steadily increasing?

There may still be many people who are unfamiliar with it or who have heard of it but think it looks complicated. So, in this article, we would like to give a brief explanation of OpenRoaming.

1. What is OpenRoaming? A system that automatically connects you to public Wi-Fi
2. OpenRoaming Wi-Fi spots are safe to use
3. How to use OpenRoaming Wi-Fi spots
4. Are there any disadvantages to OpenRoaming?

What is OpenRoaming? A system that automatically connects you to public Wi-Fi

OpenRoaming can be roughly summarized as "a system that automatically connects you to various public Wi-Fi networks."

With conventional Wi-Fi spots, you had to go through different procedures each time you used a different provider. On the other hand, OpenRoaming is a platform that spans across public Wi-Fi providers and telecommunications companies. This means that if you go through the OpenRoaming procedure, you can connect to all Wi-Fi spots that support OpenRoaming.

Once you've completed the registration process, you can connect automatically whenever you approach a Wi-Fi spot. There's no need to go through any registration screens, so it's really easy to use.

And this isn't limited to Japan. If you've already completed the OpenRoaming registration process in your home country, you can connect in the same way in Japan.

That's great! But it's still a paid service, right?

No, no, of course, you can use it for free. OpenRoaming was originally started with the idea of mutual support.

The original OpenRoaming was based on Wi-Fi called eduroam. This was created with the idea that "if there was a common public Wi-Fi that could be used when visiting other universities, even when at educational or academic institutions such as universities."

OpenRoaming has expanded even further, so it can now be used by everyone worldwide.

OpenRoaming Wi-Fi spots are safe to use

But wait. What about security if you're automatically connected to Wi-Fi without even knowing it?

Don't worry. OpenRoaming is based on new Wi-Fi technology, making it a safer system.

OpenRoaming uses the connection and authentication standards of Passpoint and IEEE802.1x authentication, which enables "wireless encryption" - a weakness of conventional free Wi-Fi. It also has countermeasures against spoofed SSIDs and attacks on authentication servers, making it even safer to use. It is provided in accordance with international standards, so you can use it with peace of mind, even when crossing national borders.

I can use it safely without having to think too much about it!

Even though it's said to be safe, there is still a risk of someone being able to see your smartphone screen from behind you, so be careful!

How to use OpenRoaming Wi-Fi spots

I want to use it right away! What do I need to buy?

Don't worry! You don't need to buy anything to use OpenRoaming!

There are several ways to start using OpenRoaming. It's a good idea to prepare before you go to a Wi-Fi spot.

Install an app that supports OpenRoaming

Japan Wi-Fi auto-connect and Cisco OpenRoaming app - you can start using them by installing apps provided by telecommunications companies and other organizations.

It's easy to set up, just follow the instructions on the app screen.

Installing the profile issued by the ID provider

You can use it by installing the profile published on websites and other platforms. This is a good method for using OpenRoaming on PCs where you can't use smartphone apps.

Using functions that are standard on smartphones

The OpenRoaming sign-up function is built into Google Pixel (Android 11 or higher) and Galaxy (Android 10 or higher). If you have one of these devices, check to see if the OpenRoaming function is available.

What happens if you connect to OpenRoaming Wi-Fi without making the necessary preparations?

If you try to connect to the OpenRoaming network at a Wi-Fi spot without making these preparations, you won't be able to use it.

A dialog box will appear asking you to enter a password, but OpenRoaming does not require a unique password. In this case, the staff at the shop where you're trying to connect won't be able to help, so please be careful.

Additionally, some Wi-Fi spots allow you to download a profile. In this case, you'll need to connect to a Wi-Fi network with a different SSID from the OpenRoaming network. We recommend preparing in advance, as it will be more complicated to do on the spot.

We recommend Japan Wi-Fi auto-connect, which can be used in many situations

Although the number of OpenRoaming-compatible free Wi-Fi spots is increasing, they are not yet widely available in Japan. With Japan Wi-Fi auto-connect, you can automatically connect to OpenRoaming-compatible Wi-Fi spots as well as to many other Wi-Fi spots that the app itself supports, making it very convenient. Just install the app, and you're good to go. No other procedures are necessary.

The function that allows you to search for Wi-Fi spots on a map is also convenient, and it's easy to get started, so we recommend it.

How to use OpenRoaming | Japan Wi-Fi auto-connect
https://www.ntt-bp.net/jw-auto/ja/news/guide/guide28.html

All you had to do was install the app!

Are there any disadvantages to OpenRoaming?

It sounds too good to be true, but are there any disadvantages?

It can't be used by people who don't have compatible devices. Also, it may not be suitable for people who want to keep track of when and which public Wi-Fi they connect to.

OpenRoaming is not compatible with all devices. In particular, you need to be cautious if you're using an older Android device.

Although OpenRoaming is a secure system, people who want to monitor where their device connects may still have concerns.

Finally, no matter how convenient OpenRoaming is, if the Wi-Fi you're connecting to isn't working properly, it will still be difficult to use. Since it is a system linked with multiple businesses, if you can't connect, there may be other reasons besides simple issues like a faulty access point or poor signal, so recovery may take some time.

Let's try using this convenient system!

Did you understand what OpenRoaming is?

It's a convenient system that's already in place. Let's make good use of it and enjoy a comfortable Wi-Fi life!

OpenRoaming : サービス : NTTBP｜NTTブロードバンドプラットフォーム
https://www.ntt-bp.net/product/service/openroaming/index.html

How to use OpenRoaming | Japan Wi-Fi auto-connect
https://www.ntt-bp.net/jw-auto/ja/news/guide/guide27.html