In today’s digital world, connectivity is not just a luxury – it’s a necessity. However, the “last mile” of connectivity, the final leg that brings high-speed internet to homes and businesses, has always been one of the biggest challenges in telecommunications. This is where Fixed Wireless Access, or FWA, steps in, fundamentally transforming how we deliver broadband, especially in hard-to-reach and underserved areas.
FWA uses wireless technology, particularly 4G LTE and 5G networks, to provide high-speed internet access without relying on traditional wired infrastructure like fiber optics, cable or DSL (Digital Subscriber Line). Instead of cables, FWA transmits data between fixed points via radio signals. Customers simply install a receiver known as a CPE (Customer Premises Equipment), which is like an internet modem with an antenna, at their premises to connect to the nearest wireless tower.
The main fixed broadband technologies utilised around the world are based on xDSL (“x” Digital Subscriber Line), FTTx (Fibre To The “x”) and satellite. The main advantage of xDSL is that it requires less investment since it typically uses the existing copper connection to the premises. In contrast, cable and fibre optic solutions involve additional civil costs in getting the cable/fibre to the household, i.e., usually it involves costs related to digging up roads to lay the cable. However, in the case of fibre, the end result is that it provides very high-speed connectivity.
Figure 2 illustrates a comparison of the various technology options.
Customers typically also consider LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellite systems like Starlink over FWA when there is no reliable cellular infrastructure or coverage, particularly in extremely remote locations such as mountains, rural areas, or islands, where traditional networks have not yet been deployed. Note that systems like Starlink also serve as a strong backup solution to existing terrestrial connections. On the other hand, FWA is the better choice when you are within range of a robust 4G or 5G network, as it typically offers lower hardware and setup costs, more competitive monthly pricing, and better scalability for serving entire communities.
Unlike laying miles of fiber or copper cables, FWA can be rolled out in a fraction of the time. This makes it ideal for rural regions or developing countries where deploying physical infrastructure is slow and costly.
FWA slashes deployment costs significantly by eliminating the need for expensive trenching, pole installations, and lengthy civil works. This cost efficiency means ISPs can serve more customers without massive upfront investments.
In areas where traditional wired connections aren’t feasible, FWA can bridge the digital divide. Rural towns, islands, and remote areas can now enjoy speeds that rival or even surpass legacy DSL services.
Thanks to 5G, FWA now offers gigabit-level speeds and ultra-low latency, making it a viable alternative to fiber for many use cases, including video streaming, online gaming, and remote work.
FWA networks are highly scalable. Adding more users doesn’t necessarily mean upgrading physical infrastructure. Operators can increase capacity through software upgrades, spectrum expansion, or deploying more small cells.
FWA presents a significant opportunity on a global scale. With estimates of nearly 40% of the world’s two billion households lacking access to fixed broadband services, FWA emerges as a practical solution. While it may not deliver the same high capacity as fiber networks, FWA offers the advantage of rapid and affordable deployment with performance levels sufficient for everyday use. As a result, it serves as a strong alternative to conventional fixed-line options such as DSL, cable, and fiber in numerous markets around the world.
Governments and telcos worldwide are turning to FWA to meet universal broadband goals. For example, in countries with challenging geography like Indonesia or parts of Africa, FWA is already helping millions of people gain access to reliable internet (Source: Broadband Commission of Sustainable Development, UNESCO).
FWA isn’t just a stopgap, it’s a revolution in last-mile connectivity. It offers a flexible, scalable, and affordable alternative to traditional broadband and is breaking down barriers and bringing the world online, one community at a time.
For telcos and service providers, FWA presents an incredible opportunity to expand their footprint, especially when integrated with digital platforms, which streamline operations through programmable APIs, automated billing, and seamless route management.
As 5G continues to mature, FWA is poised to become a primary solution for last-mile connectivity. With innovations in spectrum management and antenna design, future FWA networks will deliver even faster speeds to even more people.