What is fixed wireless internet, and how does it work?

Fixed wireless internet is a type of high-speed connection that delivers data via radio waves instead of buried cables (like fiber or coax). It is most commonly used in rural or underserved areas where laying physical lines is too expensive or difficult.

How It Works​

Fixed wireless relies on a "point-to-point" transmission system. Unlike mobile data, which connects to your phone while you're moving, this connection is "fixed" to a specific location.
  1. The Base Station: An internet service provider (ISP) sends a signal from a local "Access Point" (usually located on a cell tower, water tower, or grain elevator).
  2. Line of Sight: The signal travels through the air to a receiver (antenna or dish) mounted on your home. This typically requires a clear "line of sight" with no major obstructions like hills or dense forests.
  3. The Modem: A cable runs from the outside antenna to a modem inside your house, which converts the radio signal into a usable internet connection for your Wi-Fi router.
 
Fixed wireless internet delivers high-speed data via radio waves rather than underground cables. A provider broadcasts signals from a local tower to an antenna mounted on your home. It offers lower latency than satellite, making it a reliable broadband alternative for rural areas where fiber hasn't reached yet.
 
Back
Top