Key Takeaways
- Fixed Wireless Access addresses the “last mile” connectivity challenges that fibre and cellular networks cannot resolve.
- WISPs leverage innovative technology and reliable networks to offer 99.99% uptime, even in areas affected by infrastructure and electricity challenges.
- Fixed Wireless is ideal for diverse industries, from rural enterprises to large corporations seeking redundancy.
- WAPA’s advocacy and technical support are driving the growth and credibility of Fixed Wireless Access in South Africa.
- Businesses that adopt Fixed Wireless gain access to cost-effective, scalable, and reliable internet solutions tailored to their needs.
The internet is the lifeline of modern businesses, powering operations, communications, and growth. Yet connectivity challenges persist, particularly in underserved areas or during power outages. While fibre and cellular networks dominate the market, they often fall short in ensuring reliable and scalable connectivity – especially in the critical “last mile” of delivery, the connection between the network and the end user.
This is where Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) step in to redefine connectivity. FWA is not merely a backup plan; it is a robust, resilient, and cost-effective solution tailored to meet the needs of businesses.
Despite its clear advantages, Fixed Wireless remains underappreciated, often overshadowed by misconceptions and limited marketing. As Paul Colmer, an EXCO member of the Wireless Access Provider’s Association (WAPA), aptly states: “There are none so blind who cannot see.” Businesses that overlook Fixed Wireless risk missing out on a connectivity solution that offers unparalleled reliability and value.
This article explores why businesses are increasingly turning to Fixed Wireless Access, how it works, and its transformative potential for a variety of industries.
The ‘Last Mile’ Problem: Where Fibre and Cellular Fall Short
The “last mile” of connectivity—the link between a provider’s network and the end user—has long been a weak spot for fibre and cellular networks in South Africa.
- Fibre: While marketed as the ultimate solution for high-speed internet, fibre rollouts often face delays, breakages, and unreliable service due to ongoing infrastructure repairs and haphazard planning. In some areas, competing fibre providers dig over each other to lay cables, compounding service disruptions.
- Cellular (LTE and 5G): Cellular networks face their own issues, such as load shedding, decaying transmission towers, and unpredictable traffic on shared towers. This makes LTE and 5G connections unreliable, especially during peak usage times.
These challenges leave businesses vulnerable to downtime and inefficiencies. For many, the last mile is where the internet “fails.”
The Fixed Wireless Advantage
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) offers a compelling alternative to fibre and cellular networks by addressing the limitations of the last mile. Here’s why it is becoming the go-to solution for South African businesses:
1. Resilience Against Load Shedding and Infrastructure Challenges
WISPs use low-powered equipment powered by batteries or solar panels, making FWA less dependent on Eskom’s unstable electricity supply. This independence ensures uninterrupted connectivity during load shedding or power outages.
2. Reliability and Redundancy
WISPs build redundancy into their networks by establishing multiple routes to core networks and undersea cables. This setup delivers an impressive 99.99% uptime—reliability unmatched by many fibre and cellular providers.
3. Cost-Effectiveness
FWA’s operating model requires less physical infrastructure than fibre or cellular networks, resulting in reduced costs. For example, WISPs can offer uncapped public internet hotspots for as little as R5 per day, significantly undercutting cellular providers’ pricing.
4. Rapid Deployment
Unlike fibre installations, which require extensive groundwork, Fixed Wireless networks can be deployed in days. This makes it an ideal solution for businesses needing immediate connectivity or operating in areas where fibre rollouts are delayed.
5. Localised, Responsive Support
WISPs operate locally and often provide direct, on-the-ground support. This is a stark contrast to the call centre-driven support of national providers, ensuring quicker problem resolution and better overall service.
Use Cases: Fixed Wireless for Businesses
Fixed Wireless Access excels as a connectivity solution for a wide range of industries and business needs. Its versatility and adaptability make it a game-changer for the following scenarios:
1. Rural and Underserved Enterprises
In areas where fibre is unavailable or impractical, Fixed Wireless bridges the connectivity gap. SMEs in rural and semi-urban regions can now access high-speed internet, enabling them to leverage digital tools, cloud services, and online marketplaces.
2. Retail and Hospitality
Retailers and hospitality businesses rely on stable internet for point-of-sale systems, online bookings, and customer-facing Wi-Fi. Fixed Wireless ensures uninterrupted operations, even in areas heavily affected by load shedding.
3. Construction and Temporary Locations
Construction sites and event venues often require temporary connectivity. Fixed Wireless provides a portable, flexible solution for these short-term needs, ensuring productivity from day one.
4. Redundancy for Large Enterprises
For large organisations, internet downtime can mean significant financial losses. Fixed Wireless serves as a reliable secondary connection, ensuring continuous operations during fibre or cellular outages.
5. Education and Community Projects
Schools, libraries, and community centres in underserved areas benefit from Fixed Wireless’s affordability and reliability. WISPs can provide low-cost public Wi-Fi hotspots, helping close the digital divide.
6. E-Commerce and Online Startups
With the rapid growth of South Africa’s e-commerce sector, Fixed Wireless offers startups a fast, scalable, and cost-effective way to establish their digital presence and serve customers online.
7. Agriculture and Remote Monitoring
Farmers can use Fixed Wireless to implement smart farming technologies, including remote monitoring of crops, livestock, and irrigation systems, boosting efficiency and productivity.
8. Healthcare Facilities
Rural clinics and hospitals can adopt Fixed Wireless to access medical databases, facilitate telemedicine, and improve patient care in areas where fibre is unavailable.
The Fixed Wireless Advantage
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) offers a compelling alternative to fibre and cellular networks by addressing the limitations of the last mile. Below is a table summarising key advantages that Fixed Wireless offers compared to fibre and cellular networks:
The Role of WAPA in Driving Fixed Wireless Innovation
The Wireless Access Provider’s Association (WAPA) plays a key role in advancing Fixed Wireless Access in South Africa. Established in 2006, WAPA advocates for self-regulation, best practices, and the adoption of cutting-edge wireless technologies.
WAPA also engages with government regulators to promote efficient spectrum management, particularly for unlicensed and dynamic spectrum. These efforts ensure that WISPs can continue delivering reliable, interference-free connectivity to businesses and communities.
Fixed Wireless Access is a transformative solution for South African businesses, offering unmatched reliability, affordability, and scalability. By bridging the “last mile” gap, WISPs are unlocking new opportunities for enterprises across industries.
As Paul Colmer wisely puts it, “There are none so blind who cannot see.” Businesses that embrace Fixed Wireless today are positioning themselves for long-term success in an increasingly digital world. Whether you’re seeking a primary connectivity solution or a reliable backup, Fixed Wireless is the key to staying connected and competitive.
