Fixed wireless broadband internet systems are proving an attractive alternative in areas where cable and DSL services are not readily available, according to a new report from Strategy Analytics (SA).
Public funding and support from some commercial users are helping to raise hopes that fixed wireless could finally support viable residential services, says SA. The study analysed country-level statistics from around the world and estimates the global target market for such services at 15-20 million homes.
Previous attempts to establish Residential Fixed Wireless Access (RFWA) have ended in high-profile commercial disasters. However, in recent months major operators such as Sprint and France Telecom, as well as newcomers US Wireless Online and Irish Broadband, have launched trials or begun commercial rollouts.
“Reduced equipment costs, improved performance, and an aggressive set of vendors and wireless ISPs are making fixed wireless a serious broadband contender in rural towns and urban fringes,” says Tom Elliott, vice president of consulting with Strategy Analytics.
