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Fixed Wireless Access (FWA)

5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is a broadband access technology that uses the 5G cellular network to provide high-speed internet connectivity to homes and businesses without the need for traditional wired connections such as DSL, cable, or fiber optics. It is particularly beneficial in areas where laying physical cables is impractical or too costly. 5G FWA employs standardized 3GPP architectures and leverages common mobile components, including New Radio (NR) in the millimeter-wave (mmWave) spectrum, to deliver ultra-high-speed broadband services.

FWA is not a new concept, but the introduction of 5G technology significantly enhances its capabilities, making it a competitive alternative to fixed-line connections. The technology is expected to be one of the first use cases for 5G due to its ability to quickly provide gigabit-level internet speeds to various areas, including dense urban, suburban, and rural locations.

The deployment of 5G FWA involves the use of Customer Premise Equipment (CPE) with antennas that communicate with a central hub or base station connected to the internet. This setup creates a wireless link that can bypass the need for laying cables. While 5G FWA can offer fast and reliable service, it also faces challenges such as signal degradation through common building materials and potential interference from weather or obstacles like tall buildings.

The benefits of 5G FWA include the ability to quickly and economically expand broadband coverage, especially in underserved areas, and the potential for self-installation by consumers. It also supports a variety of use cases beyond residential broadband, such as IoT applications. However, the quality of the service can vary depending on factors like the distance from the base station, the number of users on a cell, and physical obstructions.

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