Industry experts are hopeful that the six-month trial of an alternative approach to Wi-Fi network user authentication will reduce data congestion.

The Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA) is running the trial across member operators' networks, many of which are suffering under the additional strain placed on them by the growing data demands of mobile devices such as smartphones, reports V3.co.uk.

It hopes to achieve this by expanding the WISPr 2.0 compatibility specification to new devices, which can access networks when roaming.

Many experts believe the growing use of wireless devices, including laptops and increasingly sophisticated mobile phones, will only continue to worsen data congestion in the future.

Chris Bruce, WBA chairman and chief executive of BT Openzone, told the technology website: "The rise in data, particularly video, is great for consumers but a real challenge for network operators.

"With this trial we are hoping to create a way for firms to reduce this issue by migrating users of data networks."

The WBA is a forum committed to developing a global alliance of wireless providers who can deliver reliable and trusted wireless services and improve the experience for wireless broadband users.

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