At Cambium Networks, we recognize the vital role Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) play in delivering high-speed broadband to communities, particularly in rural areas. Our innovative fixed wireless solutions, including 5/6 GHz and 60 GHz technologies, are designed to help WISPs overcome the challenges of limited spectrum, difficult terrain, and high deployment costs. As states in the U.S. begin allocating Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program funds, Cambium Networks is uniquely positioned to help WISPs secure funding and expand their networks.
Leveraging Unlicensed Spectrum for BEAD Funding
In our recent submission to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), Cambium Networks strongly supported the inclusion of unlicensed fixed wireless (ULFW) technologies in the BEAD funding framework. We highlighted how unlicensed spectrum can provide a cost-effective alternative to fiber in low density areas and where fiber deployment is impracticably expensive or impractical. Our solutions are field-proven to deliver the high-speed, low-latency service required to meet BEAD’s 100/20 Mbps performance benchmark.
Here’s why unlicensed spectrum is critical for WISPs aiming to participate in BEAD funding:
- Performance: Our 5/6 GHz and 60 GHz solutions can deliver over 1 Gbps download speeds under ideal conditions, providing reliable service to rural areas with minimal infrastructure. Through offering both 5/6 GHz and 60 GHz technologies, Cambium Networks gives WISPs the flexibility to design their networks based on the unique needs of their service areas, allowing them to balance performance, coverage, and cost-efficiency.
- Cost-Effectiveness: With the lower cost of deployment compared to fiber, unlicensed spectrum allows WISPs to expand coverage rapidly, helping close the digital divide in even the most challenging environments.
- Protecting Investments: We urged the NTIA to ensure that areas already served by fixed wireless, providing 100/20 Mbps or better, should be exempt from BEAD funding for fiber overbuilds. This prevents undermining the investments already made by WISPs.
Preparing for the Future of Broadband
Cambium Networks’ fixed wireless solutions are already helping WISPs serve millions of customers worldwide. We believe our technology is perfectly suited to meet the goals of the BEAD program, allowing WISPs to deploy high-speed, scalable networks quickly and affordably.
Our solutions are designed to ensure that WISPs can:
- Optimize Spectrum Usage: Whether deploying in unlicensed 5/6 GHz or 60 GHz, our fixed wireless technology maximizes bandwidth utilization and enhances network performance.
- Expand Rapidly: With Cambium’s fixed wireless solutions, WISPs can deploy high-speed broadband in less time and at a lower cost than traditional fiber.
- Secure BEAD Funding: Our proven track record and performance in government-funded broadband programs make us a trusted partner for WISPs looking to secure BEAD funding.
The Road Ahead
As BEAD funding becomes available in the U.S., WISPs have a unique opportunity to expand their services and bring high-speed internet to more communities. Cambium Networks is committed to helping WISPs leverage both 5/6 GHz and 60 GHz technologies to grow their networks, improve service quality, and capitalize on this once-in-a-generation opportunity.
Contact Cambium Networks today to learn more about how our fixed wireless solutions can help you secure BEAD funding and provide the reliable, high-speed broadband your customers need. If you will be in Las Vegas for WISPAPALOOZA, I hope you will attend our Tech Talk sessions on Monday, October 14 from 1:00-5:00 PM PDT, or stop by our booth #537.