Fixed wireless internet is a technology that provides high-speed internet access to homes and businesses through radio signals transmitted between fixed base stations and fixed customer premises equipment, such as antennas or dishes. Unlike mobile wireless services, which are designed for mobility, fixed wireless is focused on delivering reliable, fixed-location internet connectivity. In this article, we’ll explore what fixed wireless internet is, how it works, its advantages, limitations, and its role in expanding broadband access.

What is Fixed Wireless Internet?

Fixed wireless internet is a broadband technology that uses wireless communication links to deliver internet access to specific locations, typically homes or businesses. It is called “fixed” because the customer’s equipment and the base station do not move once installed, as opposed to mobile wireless services where the user and cell towers are in motion.

How Does Fixed Wireless Internet Work?

The operation of fixed wireless internet involves several key components:

  1. Base Stations: Internet service providers (ISPs) install base stations or access points equipped with high-capacity radios. These base stations are strategically located to cover a specific service area.
  2. Customer Premises Equipment (CPE): Subscribers are provided with CPE, which can include a fixed outdoor antenna or dish and an indoor modem or router. The CPE communicates with the base station.
  3. Wireless Transmission: The base station transmits data wirelessly to and from the customer’s CPE using radio frequency (RF) signals. These signals can operate in various frequency bands, such as licensed or unlicensed bands, depending on the technology and regulatory requirements.
  4. Internet Connectivity: The customer’s CPE converts the wireless signals into internet connectivity that can be used by computers, devices, and local networks.
  5. High-Speed Internet Access: Fixed wireless internet provides high-speed internet access suitable for web browsing, video streaming, online gaming, and other data-intensive activities.

Advantages of Fixed Wireless Internet:

  1. Rural and Remote Access: Fixed wireless is often used to provide broadband access to rural and remote areas where laying traditional cables or fiber optics is cost-prohibitive.
  2. Quick Deployment: Fixed wireless can be deployed relatively quickly, making it a valuable solution for areas in need of rapid internet connectivity.
  3. Scalability: Service providers can expand coverage by adding more base stations, making it adaptable to changes in demand.
  4. Reliability: Fixed wireless can offer reliability comparable to wired connections, with minimal service disruptions due to weather or physical line damage.
  5. No Digging or Trenching: Fixed wireless eliminates the need for extensive excavation and trenching work, reducing environmental impact and disruption.

Limitations of Fixed Wireless Internet:

  1. Line-of-Sight Required: Fixed wireless signals often require a clear line of sight between the base station and the customer’s CPE. Obstacles like buildings or trees can hinder signal quality.
  2. Interference: Interference from other wireless devices or radio signals in the same frequency band can affect the quality of the connection.
  3. Limited Spectrum: The availability of wireless spectrum can be limited, potentially affecting the number of users a fixed wireless network can support.
  4. Bandwidth Sharing: In shared fixed wireless networks, bandwidth may be shared among multiple users, leading to reduced speeds during peak usage times.

Role in Expanding Broadband Access:

Fixed wireless internet plays a crucial role in expanding broadband access, especially to underserved or geographically challenging areas. It offers an efficient and cost-effective way to bring high-speed internet to communities that may have otherwise remained disconnected. As technology continues to evolve, fixed wireless networks are improving in speed and reliability, making them a valuable tool in bridging the digital divide and ensuring that more people have access to the benefits of the internet.