5G has made it possible for wireless networks to compete against fiber, satellite, xDSL, and cable in delivering high-speed broadband service to residences and businesses at attractive prices through FWA.
What is FWA?
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is a method of connecting subscribers to broadband Internet access using a wireless alternative to traditional copper cables and/or fiber.
How does 5G FWA work?
FWA over 5G NR is a technique that delivers high-speed internet access by connecting the 5G network to customer premises equipment (CPE) at a fixed location at the consumer’s home or enterprise. The last mile or transmission from the 5G site to the business or residence using it, is handled via wireless.
Why 5G FWA?
FWA has been shown to provide a very attractive and cost-efficient alternative to fixed broadband across a wide range of cases and situations, in particular in areas outside city centers where large distances make fiber deployment expensive. Businesses with low mobility, such as utilities and oil & gas firms, are prime candidates for FWA service.
✔ The savings in deployment time and cost are significant. With no need to dig trenches to lay fiber, FWA is an attractive option for operators.
What is the difference between 5G FWA and 4G FWA?
- 5G FWA delivers up to ten times the capacity of a 4G FWA network, often with more reliability.
- 5G can provide on the same sector two bandes mid band like n41 (2.5-2.7GHz) and n77 (3.3-4.2GHz) and High band like mmWave spectrum such as 26GHz and 28GHz. 5G can provide different speeds based on the location of the homes from the 5G Site.
How Can we overcome the short mmWave 5G coverage?
Using large antenna arrays on the transmitter side together with beamforming enables the energy to be focused in the desired direction. Beamforming on the receiver side further improves the received signal strength.
As per GSMA
“ 5G mid-band plus mmWave is also cost-effective in urban areas lacking existing fiber infrastructure that can be shared or rented. In such cases, expected cost savings can reach 45% depending on the region.”