According to Dell'Oro Group, revenues from Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) are expected to exceed USD 40 billion in the next five years. This growth is attributed to the increasing number of subscribers in emerging markets. The report states that FWA spending has risen in recent years to support both residential and enterprise connectivity. This is due to the ease of deployment and the widespread availability of 4G and sub-6GHz 5G networks.
Reliable FWA
These improvements have made FWA connectivity more reliable and comparable to fixed broadband. As technological infrastructures continue to advance, incorporating innovations and expanding coverage, the accessibility of digital services is poised to become more widespread.
This surge in accessibility is anticipated to catalyze a significant increase in the number of subscribers, as more individuals gain the ability to connect to and benefit from evolving telecommunications networks. This positive trajectory reflects a growing global trend toward enhanced connectivity and digital inclusion, fostering a broader reach of technology-driven opportunities.
Connecting Emerging Markets
In addition to FWA, satellite technology from LEO-based providers like Starlink, OneWeb, and Project Kuiper will play a significant role in connecting emerging markets. Preliminary data from Dell'Oro Group indicates that total FWA revenues, including RAN equipment, residential CPE, and enterprise router and gateway revenue, are projected to increase by 27% in 2023.
This growth will be primarily driven by residential subscriber growth in North America. The report predicts that global FWA revenues will exceed USD 9 billion by 2027, thanks to continued investment and subscriber growth in both 3GPP and non-3GPP network deployments.
In the context of 3GPP networks, which encompass various mobile communication standards, and non-3GPP networks, which include alternative wireless technologies, the synergistic effect of continued investment becomes apparent. The deployment and enhancement of both these network types contribute to an expanded and more robust FWA infrastructure. This not only augments the overall connectivity landscape but also positions FWA as a lucrative avenue for telecommunications.
Dell'Oro Group VP and analyst Jeff Heynen stated, "FWA has proven its ability to provide connectivity in rural and underserved markets, while also competing with fixed broadband technologies in urban and suburban areas."
Reliance on FWA-Enabled Routers
Heynen also noted that enterprises are increasingly relying on FWA-enabled routers and gateways for their own private wireless initiatives, connecting branch offices, vehicles, and kiosks.
Enterprises are drawn to FWA-enabled routers and gateways for their private wireless initiatives due to the combination of flexibility, rapid deployment, cost-effectiveness, reliability, scalability, security features, ease of management, and the ability to future-proof their connectivity infrastructure.
