In the realm of audio-over-Wi-Fi solutions, Listen Technologies has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation. With the introduction of ListenWIFI (LW), we have taken a significant step forward from our previous solution, Listen Everywhere (LE). One of the most impactful enhancements in ListenWIFI is the addition of DNS capabilities, which addresses a critical challenge faced by LE users in enterprise networking environments.

The Challenge with Listen Everywhere

Listen Everywhere was designed to provide seamless audio streaming over Wi-Fi, but it relied solely on mDNS (multicast DNS) for device discovery. While mDNS works well for small to medium-sized networks, it has a significant limitation: it does not traverse subnets. This meant that in larger enterprise networks, where multiple subnets are common, users had to manually input the IP address or hostname into the app or use a QR code for server discovery. This manual process was not only cumbersome but also a barrier to widespread adoption in complex network environments.

The Solution: DNS Capabilities in ListenWIFI

With ListenWIFI, we have introduced DNS capabilities, providing our customers with a choice between mDNS and DNS for server discovery. This flexibility is a game-changer for enterprise networks. Here’s how it works:

• mDNS for Small to Medium Networks: For smaller networks, mDNS remains a viable option, offering simple and effective device discovery without the need for additional configuration.
• DNS for Medium to Large Networks: For larger enterprise networks, DNS is now available using the service name “listenwifi-audio”. This allows for seamless device discovery across subnets, eliminating the need for manual IP, Hostname, or QR code scanning to facilitate server discovery on a network.

Additional Improvements in ListenWIFI

Beyond DNS capabilities, ListenWIFI introduces several other enhancements that are particularly valuable for higher education and corporate customers:

1. Hidden Channel Feature: In multi-channel applications, users previously had to scroll through a visible list of all channels to find their desired one, which was not only cumbersome but also raised privacy concerns. With ListenWIFI, channels can now be hidden, allowing users to access them only when they encounter a trigger such as a beacon or QR code. This feature enhances user experience and privacy.
2. Encryption of Data at All Times: Previously, encryption was only applied when channels were password protected. Now, with ListenWIFI, all control and streaming data is encrypted at all times, regardless of password protection. This ensures a higher level of security for all users.
3. System Hardening Efforts: Security is paramount for any device on your network. ListenWIFI products, including Wi-Fi audio servers, receivers, mobile apps, and management software, have been hardened against security threats and vulnerabilities.
   
   Here are some highlights of our system hardening efforts:

1. • Regular Updates: Software and systems are updated to fix vulnerabilities.
   • Data Encryption: All data is always encrypted.
   • Local Data Transmission: All data stays within the LAN, never over the internet.
   • Low-Sensitivity Data Storage: Only very low-sensitivity, encrypted data is stored.
   • Secure Communications: HTTPS is used for basic data transmittal between servers and devices.
   • Access Controls: Only authorized accounts can access management software.
   • Third-Party Audits: Regular security audits are conducted

Conclusion

ListenWIFI represents a significant advancement over Listen Everywhere, particularly in its ability to meet the demands of enterprise networking environments. By incorporating DNS capabilities, hidden channel features, comprehensive data encryption, and robust system hardening efforts, we have addressed critical barriers to adoption. These enhancements make ListenWIFI the ideal choice for higher education and corporate customers with complex network infrastructures. This solution not only simplifies deployment but also ensures a seamless, secure, and reliable audio streaming experience for users across all network configurations.