Wi-Fi Aware

Wi-Fi Aware

Overview

Wi-Fi Aware, also known as NAN (Neighbor Awareness Networking), is a peer-to-peer communication protocol based on standard Wi-Fi technology. Its key distinction from Wi-Fi P2P is the decentralized architecture of Wi-Fi Aware, enabling all devices to autonomously discover and communicate directly without centralized coordination.

Key Advantages

Decentralized Network Architecture

Direct data transmission between devices is achieved through the standard NAN protocol, ensuring good compatibility.

Efficient Service Discovery

Based on a publish/subscribe model, devices match needs by broadcasting service identifiers (such as "file sharing"), enabling precise, low-latency discovery

Low Power Consumption

Devices only wake up synchronously to exchange beacon frames during pre-scheduled "discovery windows", remaining in sleep state most of the time

Enhanced Security

Encrypted data paths can be established between devices, with effective protection for beacon frames, management frames, and data frames

Typical Applications

As shown on the left diagram, devices may engage in interactions including but not limited to the following:

Multiple mobile phones simultaneously send print tasks to a printer via point-to-point links.
Mobile phones directly operate smart devices (e.g., cameras, sweeping robots, speakers).
File sharing between mobile phones.

Development Resources

	SDK Download	Link
	Wi-Fi Aware (NAN) Development Guide	Link
	Contact Us	Link

Recommended ICs

Features	Filter	RTL872xD	RTL8721Dx	RTL8721F	RTL8720E	RTL8710E	RTL8726E	RTL8713E	RTL8730E	RTL8735B
Application Processor	Cortex-M Cortex-A	Cortex-M	Cortex-M	Cortex-M	Cortex-M	Cortex-M	Cortex-M	Cortex-M	Cortex-A	Cortex-M
DSP	Select
ISP?	Select
TrustZone	Select
Dual Band?	Select
Wi-Fi6	Select
R-MESH?	Select
Ultra-low power	Select
Ethernet	Select
BT Dual Mode	Select
HMI?	Select
Audio ADC?	Select
Audio DAC?	Select
USB	Select
BT Dedicated Antenna?	Select