High-speed internet is becoming more and more critical for enterprise operations and can be achieved in many different ways – wireless connections through Local Area Networks, broadband, cable, ethernet, Wi-Fi, and many more. Fixed wireless access (FWA) is becoming a more popular choice as it allows a quick ramp-up time with less cost associated with other connectivity choices that require trenching and line burying.
FWA leverages cellular connectivity, 5G and 4G LTE, through a cell tower or transmitter (base stations) that connect to a fixed network and subscriber units throughout the coverage area. Most major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) offer FWA coverage.
There are several benefits of FWA, primarily in its ability offer “Day 0” connectivity because it doesn’t require the infrastructure typically associated with wired connectivity- such as trenching and line burying. Not only does this create a fast ramp time for connectivity, but it also lowers the upfront costs, as well as management and maintenance.
FWA is growing in popularity due to these benefits, whether as a primary connection, secondary connection, or failover connectivity. According to Ericsson, "From 100 million at the end of 2022, FWA connections worldwide are projected to increase to 300 million by the end of 2028. This represents 17 percent of all fixed broadband connections. Of the 300 million projected connections, nearly 80 percent are expected to be over 5G." Also, they go on to note that Western Europe and North America have the highest adoption with nearly 70% of FWA service providers offering it over 5G.
Learn more about how cellular connectivity is growing in enterprise IoT and how to get your IoT devices connected and keep them up and running. It’s time for KORE.