FINAL WORD
Fixed wireless access primarily means , we are using wireless access for the last mile of connectivity . While it sounds simple as it is , there are multiple ways of deploying fixed wireless access , the best-effort approach and the speed-based approach .
In a best-effort scenario , households have an indoor wireless router with wide-area wireless capabilities , example 3GPP to and from the home , and Wi-Fi or LAN cabling connects the router to local devices . The router and subscription are nomadic , allowing portability as long as the subscription is active .
Chafic Traboulsi , Vice President and Head of
Networks , Ericsson Africa and Middle East provided with laptops , learning content , and teacher training to support the development of the ecosystem .
The project will run as a part of Ericsson ’ s Connect to Learn programme , a global education initiative to improve educational opportunities through technology .
Extensive upfront investment associated with fibre , including factors like civil engineering and project approvals , contributes to its deployment challenges .
The subscription often mirrors mobile broadband principles , potentially with increased data allowances . The best-effort label comes from the fact that the nomadic nature of the devices makes it difficult to provide extremely high grade guaranteed offerings .
Speed-based fixed wireless access , is where we believe the communication service providers should focus more . This approach focuses on outfitting homes with wide-area wireless-capable devices , like 3GPP and either outdoor-mounted on roofs , walls or indoor units with advanced antennas . This is managed like fixed broadband , remote setup and fault handling use standard protocols .
It has custom price plans , emphasizing data rates , and mirrors fixed broadband offerings . Superior performance in speed-based plans often leads to higher ARPU compared to basic options , aligning with market norms . Service providers can strategically mix varied packages for different user groups .
Subscriptions are tied to specific locations , linked to fixed-mounted CPEs or logically adjusted upon relocation . This location-aware method sharpens fixed wireless access service delivery precision .
In summary , fixed wireless access , particularly 5G fixed wireless access , emerges as a potent instrument to bridge Africa ’ s digital divide . For governments and regulators interested in bridging the digital divide in their countries it should be a priority that the frequencies needed for 5G fixed wireless access are released quickly and in an affordable way .
Capitalising on the expansive network scale , robust device ecosystem , and innovation of 5G , fixed wireless access is optimally poised to connect the homes , enterprises and communities that are without broadband access today . By facilitating fast and dependable broadband access , fixed wireless access catalyses economic growth and empowerment , strategically positioning Africa to harness the opportunities of the digital age . p
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