Challenges facing FWA implementation

While Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) presents many advantages, it also comes with challenges that broadband providers must address. Signal interference is a primary concern, as obstacles like buildings, trees and terrain can obstruct the wireless signal path between the cellular tower and the receiver. This can lead to degraded connection quality.

Bandwidth limitations and speeds can be an issue, particularly in densely populated areas where wireless spectrum congestion is high. This congestion can affect service quality during peak usage times.

Distance is another challenge, especially in rural areas with lower tower density. Customers located far from the nearest tower may experience slower speeds and less reliable connectivity. Providers must also navigate spectrum limitations and regulatory constraints. 

These challenges have in part led to the rise in using nontraditional towers and the prioritization of network decongestion before launching FWA services. Using iconectiv® TruOps® Common Language® NC/NCI™ Codes, communications service providers (CSPs) can better troubleshoot their FWA networks and plan around hiccups to interconnection to ensure smooth, reliable service.