What is WISP?

A Wireless Internet Service Provider, or WISP, is a telecommunications company that delivers high-speed Internet access to subscribers using radio signals rather than traditional wired infrastructure. WISPs have gained immense popularity in recent years due to their ability to provide internet services to underserved and unserved areas, making them an essential player in expanding global connectivity.

In today's digitally driven world, access to the internet is no longer a luxury but a fundamental necessity. However, for many individuals and communities, especially those in rural or remote areas, traditional wired internet connections can be challenging to obtain. This is where Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) step in, bridging the digital divide and ensuring that internet connectivity reaches even the most remote corners of the globe.

WISPs utilize a network of wireless equipment, including radio transmitters and receivers, antennas, and base stations, to establish a connection between the subscriber's location and the internet service provider's network. These wireless connections can operate on various frequencies, such as microwave, radio, and satellite bands. Technology may include commonplace Wi-Fi wireless mesh networking, or proprietary equipment designed to operate over open 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz, 4.9, 5, 24, and 60 GHz bands or licensed frequencies in the UHF band (including the MMDS frequency band), LMDS, and other bands from 6 GHz to 80 GHz.

One of the most significant advantages of WISPs is their ability to provide "last-mile" connectivity, which is the link between the internet backbone and the end-user's premises. This is particularly vital in rural areas where laying traditional wired infrastructure can be prohibitively expensive. WISPs have a large market share in rural environments where cable and digital subscriber lines are not available; further, with the technology available, they can meet or beat the speeds of legacy cable and telephone systems. In urban environments, gigabit wireless links are common and provide levels of bandwidth previously only available through expensive fiber optic connections. For effective WISP operations, a clear line of sight between the subscriber's antenna and the WISP's base station is essential. Obstacles like trees, buildings, and hills can disrupt signals, making LOS assessments a crucial part of WISP installation. 

Typically, a WISP will get a fiber connection to the center of the area they wish to serve. From there, the WISP will start building backhauls (gigabit wireless or fiber) to elevated points in the region, such as radio towers, tall buildings, grain silos, or water towers. Those locations will have access points to provide service to individual customers or backhauls to other towers where they have more equipment. The WISP may also use gigabit wireless links to connect a PoP (Point of Presence) to several towers, reducing the need to pay for fiber circuits to the tower. For fixed wireless connections, a small dish or antenna is mounted to the roof of the customer's building and aligned to the WISP's nearest antenna site. When operating over the tightly limited range of the heavily populated 2.4 GHz band, as nearly all 802.11-based Wi‑Fi providers do, it is not uncommon to also see access points mounted on light posts and customer buildings. 

The above picture depicts a typical wireless ISP. It provides wireless and wireline cable internet connections from its cell towers to deliver internet access to its customers. Each service area connects to others using backhaul channels. WISPs offer a variety of download speeds in megabits per second and even gigabits per second when providing high-speed internet service. ISPs offer a variety of internet service plans, such as fixed wireless internet, digital subscriber line or DSL, business and home internet. WISPs must be diligent about maintaining their network infrastructures and regularly assess capacity to ensure that all customers have adequate bandwidth. Supporting WISPs are terrestrial fiber network rings that ensure sufficient bandwidth, fastest internet, network recoverability and overall reliability.

Key Advantages of WISPs 

• Bridging the Digital Divide: WISPs play a pivotal role in reducing the digital divide by bringing high-speed internet to underserved areas, empowering residents with educational, economic, and social opportunities previously inaccessible.

• Rapid Deployment: Unlike traditional internet infrastructure, which can take years to deploy in remote areas, WISPs can establish internet connectivity quickly and cost-effectively. This agility is especially crucial during emergencies, such as natural disasters, where internet access is vital for communication and coordination.

• Scalability: WISPs can easily scale their operations to accommodate growing demand by adding more base stations and expanding their coverage area.

• Competitive Pricing: WISPs often offer competitive pricing models, making internet access more affordable for users in rural and remote locations.

Challenges Faced by WISPs 

While WISPs provide a valuable service, they also encounter challenges that can impact their operations:

• Spectrum Allocation: Access to spectrum frequencies can be limited and highly regulated. WISPs may face challenges in securing the necessary spectrum for their operations.

• Weather Conditions: Severe weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, can affect the quality of wireless connections, leading to service disruptions.

• Line of Sight Limitations: Terrain and obstacles can limit the ability to establish clear LOS connections, which can affect the reach and quality of WISP services.

• Competition: WISPs may face competition from traditional internet service providers in some areas, which can pose challenges to their growth.

The Future of WISPs 

The role of WISPs in expanding internet access is only set to grow in the coming years. With advancements in technology, including the deployment of 5G networks and the use of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, WISPs can enhance their offerings and reach even more remote regions. 

Moreover, government initiatives and subsidies aimed at improving rural broadband access are likely to benefit WISPs, further incentivizing their expansion into underserved areas. 

Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) are integral to the mission of connecting the world, ensuring that even the most remote and underserved communities have access to high-speed Internet. With their rapid deployment capabilities, scalability, and competitive pricing models, WISPs are well-positioned to continue making a significant impact in bridging the digital divide. As technology advances and regulatory support increases, the future of WISPs looks promising, bringing us closer to a more connected and inclusive global society.