In a development for broadband service providers (BSPs), the recent integration of the Open Broadband USP Agent (OBUSPA) project with the prpl Foundation and RDK platforms enables services to be deployed on routers and residential gateways within weeks rather than months or years.
Using OBUSPA, two open source platforms — prplWare from the prpl Foundation and RDK-B software from RDK — aim to increase the agility and adaptability of BSPs. By incorporating OBUSPA releases into their middleware stacks, the platforms support service providers in delivering new applications more quickly.
The integration reduces deployment times, allowing BSPs to introduce tailored services within shorter timeframes. With OBUSPA’s User Services Platform (USP) protocol, new services can be introduced more rapidly, reducing the timeline from the typical 9–18 months to approximately 2–4 weeks.
At the core of the integration is OBUSPA’s open source model, designed to enhance remote management capabilities and streamline device data models. The ability to update individual components without performing a full firmware update provides BSPs with flexibility.
Updates are already underway. prplWare 4.1 launched with OBUSPA 10.0.6 in October 2025, while prplWare 5.0 is expected to incorporate further updates in April 2026. RDK-B operators are transitioning from OBUSPA 9.0.9 to version 10.0.10, enhancing their capabilities.
Collaboration between the prpl Foundation, RDK, and the Broadband Forum supports the development of this initiative. The integration highlights the role of open source communities in broadband technology development and the introduction of new applications and services.
The broadband middleware stack functions as a link between operating systems and applications, supporting communication, integration, and service management across systems. This contributes to operational efficiency and broader deployment of core components in service environments.
The developments in OBUSPA-enabled broadband management reflect a broader trend of using open source software to address technological challenges. Open source initiatives play a role in advancing innovation and operational efficiency.
Looking ahead, continued collaboration between industry participants and open source communities such as the prpl Foundation and RDK may create further developments in broadband solutions. With broader adoption of OBUSPA and related initiatives, home broadband services are evolving toward faster deployment and expanded service capabilities.
