In 2022, connecting to the internet is no longer a big deal. We turn on the computer and it automatically connects to a viable Wi-Fi signal. Your mobile always has 4G availability to reach the internet and it no longer seems like a miracle. But the truth is, the way the internet works, each and every day is a miracle. And with all the internet service types hanging around the block, the delivery of this miracle has become a lot easier.
One of the less talked about internet service types is actually fixed wireless internet. It is a unique mix of wired and wireless technologies and a great option to opt for especially in the suburbs and rural areas. Fixed wireless internet may not have been so well known in the past, but is quickly gaining popularity with the crowds now, for its decent internet speeds and service. It works a lot better than other services typically found in far-flung areas like satellite internet and DSL.
What is Fixed Wireless Internet?
Fixed Wireless Internet is a service type that uses microwave communication to deliver internet from the nearest wireless internet base to the receiver at your house. The receiver then uses a cable to help the signal reach your modem and router from whereon, you can enjoy the internet at your place.
Fixed Wireless Internet is extremely popular in rural areas and the suburbs where the options for internet are limited. But that is not all. Fixed Wireless also exists and thrives in busy metropolitan cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. All you have to do is check all the boxes on the requirement sheet and you can basically get fixed wireless internet in most places in the US.
Why choose Fixed Wireless Internet?
Fixed wireless internet is not cable or fiber but a different entity altogether. So, then the question arises, why should you choose fixed wireless? What does it have in store for you? Don’t worry for we are here to address all your concerns!
Some of the best reasons to use fixed wireless internet have been listed below. We hope you can find them enlightening.
1. Say goodbye to the wires entangling your life
One of the best reasons to choose Fixed wireless internet is the complete absence of wires. That’s right! You can bid your wires and cables a non-teary goodbye with the wireless internet service. With the exception of a single cable that carries the signal from your receiver to your modem and can be hidden easily, they are no wires to worry about. Fixed wireless internet lets you live your life completely free and untangled with good internet speeds you can rely on.
2. Easy setup means easy execution
Fixed wireless internet is a quick solution to your internet problems. It does not require a lengthy process of laying down cables, giving in-home connections, and activating the service. It only needs a transmitter antenna and a receiver antenna in the vicinity of a wireless station. And that’s about it. There is little to no hassle involved which means you can easily set it up anytime within a day or two and go online immediately.
3. Flexible data caps in comparison to cellular services
Most traditional cellular services have internet connections that come with a data cap. Or, if you have a prepaid number, the pricing on your internet data package varies depending upon the data plan you use. Fortunately, with most fixed wireless internet connections, this is not a problem. Fixed Wireless internet either gets you very high data caps or none at all, in which case you get unlimited data. There are multiple providers out there like Starry internet that do not cap your data usage so you can use your internet without fear.
4. Phone services can be skipped
A common misconception that exists is that you need a phone plan or a cellular plan to use the fixed wireless internet. That is not true. If you do not need a phone plan you can totally skip it while still getting the Fixed wireless internet. AT&T is a provider for both, but you can get any standalone service from them and that’s totally okay.
5. Rural availability is a legit cherry on the top
One of the strongest selling points for fixed wireless internet is the fact that it is more widespread than both cable and fiber. It is easy to set up and the coverage is such that it is present in most cities and states across the US. Especially for the rural areas that do not receive cable or fiber, Fixed Wireless Internet, is the next best thing!
Downsides to having a Fixed Wireless Internet service
Since all good things come with a few downsides, Fixed Wireless does too. Although the service is fully capable of handling all sorts of issues, it does struggle with a couple of things. These include,
- A clear line of sight is a need between the transmitter and the receiver antenna. If anything is between these two, the communication would falter and your internet connection would lag or fail. Hence, in busy cities with tall buildings, Fixed wireless may not be the best choice to go for.
- Although small changes in weather like a little rain or snow do not bother it, drastic weather changes are another story. Fixed Wireless internet suffers from conditions of intense bad weather including storms, hurricanes, strong winds, and even heavy snowfall can be damaging. Hence, it is obviously not a practical solution in areas that are plagued by severe weather changes throughout the year.
- When you factor in the price of the equipment and other charges, fixed wireless can sometimes be more expensive than other forms of internet. Some providers do give you the modem or antennas for free for a certain time, but typically there is a greater cost associated with fixed wireless internet services.
What are the top providers for Fixed Wireless internet in the US?
Fixed wireless is an internet service type that not all providers deliver. However, there are quite a few that do, and the rates are quite market competitive, not to mention, each provider offers something unique that stands out. The top providers for Fixed Wireless internet in the US lands are;
1. Rise Broadband
This provider serves fixed wireless in 16 states and is one of the top providers of the service. All its pricing is not only affordable but is also inclusive of equipment rental fees so you don’t have to pay any hidden charges. Rise Broadband requires no contracts and the customer service is one-of-a-kind.
2. AT&T:
Things are quite easy with AT&T fixed wireless internet. It has great coverage all throughout the country so you have access to the internet almost anywhere. Plus AT&T comes with substantial data caps and high speeds so you never have to worry about a thing. You can bundle AT&T fixed wireless internet with DIRECTV and get good value as well as plenty of entertainment options
3. Starry Internet
This is a small provider that deals primarily in fixed wireless internet but is definitely a great one. Starry internet provides internet speeds up to 200 Mbps, all in just $50 per month. There are no data caps, absolutely zero contracts, and no fees that try to sneak into your bill. The customer service too definitely lives up to the name!
Final Word
It can be worth your time and money to check out fixed wireless internet and read up on it. If it interests you, you can do your market search on some of the best fixed wireless service providers in the country.
Who knows you might just discover your new favorite provider?
