Two major open source broadband middleware providers have rolled out support for Broadband Forum’s User Services Platform. The Open Broadband USP Agent, or OBUSPA, now works with prpl Foundation’s prplWare version 4.1 and RDK-B firmware stacks.

PrplWare 4.1 supports OBUSPA version 10.0.6 right away, according to Broadband Forum officials. A newer iteration of the reference code will arrive in April with prplWare 5.0.

RDK-B users gain immediate access to the USP tools through this integration. Broadband Forum described the move as a key step for operators building next-generation broadband gateways and customer premises equipment.

The User Services Platform lets service providers manage devices remotely. It handles everything from software updates to diagnostics across networks. Embedding OBUSPA into these firmware stacks speeds up deployment for operators, the forum said.

Prpl Foundation leads development of prplWare, an open source platform for broadband gateways. RDK-B, meanwhile, powers set-top boxes and gateways for cable and broadband providers worldwide. Both projects draw contributions from companies like Comcast, Charter and Liberty Global.

“This collaboration brings USP to a wider ecosystem,” Broadband Forum said in a statement. The reference stack simplifies how vendors add USP capabilities without starting from scratch.

Operators using RDK-B can now test and deploy USP-enabled devices faster. PrplWare users get the same benefits, with version 5.0 set to expand features further. Broadband Forum expects more middleware providers to follow suit.

USP has gained traction since Broadband Forum released it in 2020. It standardizes device management and works alongside TR-069, an older protocol still common in the industry. The agent runs on resource-constrained devices like routers and extenders.

Prpl Foundation highlighted the integration during a recent update. RDK community managers confirmed the OBUSPA addition fits smoothly into their generic broadband stack. No major compatibility issues have surfaced so far.

Broadband Forum continues to push USP adoption. Recent certifications include agents from companies like Calix and ADTRAN. The forum now counts over 100 member organizations backing the standard.

This development comes amid rising demand for remote management tools. Network operators face pressure to handle millions of devices efficiently as fiber and 5G rollout accelerates. USP addresses that with cloud-native features and zero-touch provisioning.