SoftAtHome Powers Commercial Wi-Fi 7 Capabilities with Orange's European Launch

SoftAtHome's Innovative Wi-Fi 7 Deployment with Orange

A Groundbreaking Step in Connectivity

SoftAtHome, a leading independent software provider specializing in broadband, video, and analytics, has made headlines with the launch of the first-ever commercial Wi-Fi 7 repeater powered by its comprehensive prpl software stack. This significant development comes as Orange, one of Europe's largest telecom providers, expands its Wi-Fi offerings across various countries including Poland and France, with plans for at least three additional markets.

The deployment marks a pivotal moment for the prpl technology, designed to provide operators with a hardware-independent software foundation for high-performance broadband devices. After years of anticipation, prpl is finally becoming a reality, catalyzed by the advancements in Wi-Fi 7 technology which promises faster speeds and more reliable connections.

What Does Wi-Fi 7 Offer?

The introduction of Wi-Fi 7 is anticipated to revolutionize the way users connect to the internet. It promises lower latency, multi-link operation (MLO), and seamless connectivity for devices that support Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6, and Wi-Fi 7, all operating under a unified SSID. This adaptability ensures that users enjoy uninterrupted access regardless of their devices.

In March 2026, Orange Poland introduced its first Wi-Fi 7 device, dubbed the Smartbox, successfully demonstrating the potential of the prpl framework. Following this, the Wi-Fi 7 repeater for Orange France is now operational, with additional launches planned in other European markets. This aligns with previous prpl deployments at Orange Jordan, where SoftAtHome provided gateway software approximately a year ago.

Versatile and User-Friendly Software

SoftAtHome designed the prpl stack to cater to the diverse needs of different Orange markets without the necessity for separate software for every country. This efficiency underscores the essence of an open platform that accommodates operator-specific features while maintaining a consistent core.

The repeaters utilize SoftAtHome's Wi-Fi software, Wifi'ON Smart, running on the prpl framework. This software offers a standardized hardware abstraction layer (HAL), enabling compatibility across various generations of chipsets. Furthermore, interoperability relies on prplMesh, which integrates EasyMesh, allowing repeaters to function seamlessly within the diverse gateway environments offered by Orange, thus freeing subscribers from the constraints of a single vendor's ecosystem.

These advancements not only streamline the user experience but also ensure that existing hardware can continue operating effectively. The new Wi-Fi 7 technology enhances home coverage, supporting up to three devices simultaneously in households, perfect for larger homes or multi-story residences.

Insightful Performance Monitoring

The Eyes'ON analytics solution from SoftAtHome provides Orange with real-time insights into the Wi-Fi performance across its network, enabling operators to monitor and optimize connectivity effectively. Together with Wifi'ON, they establish SoftAtHome's Wi-Fi software stack within the repeater, merging optimization with observability.

In line with modern sustainability practices, the hardware is designed using recycled plastics and allows for easy repair and refurbishment. This approach helps Orange continually enhance subscriber experience through software updates instead of requiring new hardware acquisitions, fostering a long-term relationship with customers.

A Vision for the Future

Reflecting on this landmark achievement, Arnaud Bellivier de Prin, CEO of SoftAtHome, expressed excitement about the commercial rollout: “After our inaugural global deployment with Orange Jordan in 2025, we have reached another milestone with the launch of the world’s first Wi-Fi 7 repeater operating on a full prpl stack across multiple European markets. This proves that operators can indeed adopt an open platform while integrating new semiconductor partners to maintain the seamless experience that subscribers expect. We are proud to mark this milestone alongside Orange.”