Fixed Wireless Access vs Satellite Internet: Which Delivers Better Performance?

When it comes to providing reliable, high-speed internet, both Fixed Wireless Access and Satellite Internet are commonly chosen solutions, especially in regions where traditional wired options like fiber or cable are not available. But how do they compare in terms of performance? In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between Fixed Wireless Access vs Satellite Internet, focusing on factors like speed, latency, reliability, and overall performance

What is Fixed Wireless Access (FWA)?

Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is a broadband service that uses radio signals to deliver high-speed internet. It typically involves a connection between a base station and a fixed location, such as a home or business. The base station broadcasts a wireless signal that is picked up by a receiver installed at the user’s location. FWA is commonly deployed in areas where laying physical infrastructure like fiber optics is either too costly or impractical.

Advantages of FWA

• Lower Latency: FWA generally has much lower latency than satellite internet because it communicates directly with nearby base stations rather than with satellites orbiting the Earth.
• High Speeds: With advancements in 5G technology, FWA can now deliver speeds comparable to fiber in some regions.
• Fast Deployment: FWA can be rapidly deployed using existing wireless infrastructure, making it a quick solution for rural and suburban areas.
• Cost-Effective: Unlike fiber, which requires extensive infrastructure investment, FWA can provide broadband at a fraction of the cost by leveraging existing cellular towers.

What is Satellite Internet?

Satellite Internet delivers broadband service using satellites orbiting the Earth. A satellite dish at the user’s location communicates with these satellites to provide internet access. While satellite internet can be deployed virtually anywhere, its performance and reliability can vary depending on several factors, such as weather conditions and distance from the satellite.

Advantages of Satellite Internet

• Global Coverage: Satellite internet can be deployed in even the most remote areas, making it a viable option where no other broadband solutions exist.
• Infrastructure-Free: Unlike FWA, which requires base stations, satellite internet only needs a satellite dish and a clear line of sight to the sky.
• Availability: Satellite internet is available almost everywhere, making it a universal solution for remote locations or underserved areas.

Performance Comparison: Fixed Wireless Access vs Satellite Internet

Let’s take a closer look at how Fixed Wireless Access vs Satellite Internet compare in terms of performance.

Speed

• Fixed Wireless Access: With the rise of 5G technology, FWA can deliver high-speed internet, often ranging between 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps depending on the network and the proximity to the base station.
• Satellite Internet: Speeds for satellite internet vary widely but are generally slower, typically ranging between 12 Mbps to 100 Mbps, depending on the provider and plan.

Winner: FWA (Higher speeds, especially with 5G technology)

Latency

• Fixed Wireless Access: FWA typically offers low latency, ranging between 10 to 50 milliseconds (ms). This is because FWA connects directly to local towers, minimizing signal travel distance.
• Satellite Internet: Satellite internet is known for high latency, often exceeding 500 ms due to the distance signals must travel between the Earth and satellites. This high latency can make real-time applications like video conferencing or online gaming difficult.

Winner: FWA (Much lower latency, crucial for real-time applications)

Reliability

• Fixed Wireless Access: FWA is generally more reliable than satellite internet because it is less affected by weather conditions or environmental factors. However, it can still be disrupted by extreme weather or physical obstructions (like mountains).
• Satellite Internet: Satellite internet is more susceptible to disruptions from weather, such as heavy rain or snow, as well as physical obstructions like trees or buildings that block the line of sight to the satellite.

Winner: FWA (Fewer disruptions caused by environmental factors)

Data Caps and Throttling

• Fixed Wireless Access: Many FWA providers offer unlimited data plans, though some may have fair usage policies that throttle speeds after reaching certain thresholds.
• Satellite Internet: Satellite providers typically enforce stricter data caps, and exceeding these limits can result in reduced speeds or additional charges.

Winner: FWA (More generous data allowances with fewer restrictions)

Coverage

• Fixed Wireless Access: FWA relies on the proximity to a base station, which limits its reach to areas within range of these towers. However, with the ongoing rollout of 5G, FWA coverage is expanding rapidly.
• Satellite Internet: Satellite internet has near-global coverage, making it ideal for extremely remote or rural areas with little to no broadband infrastructure.

Winner: Satellite Internet (Offers global coverage, even in the most remote areas)

Conclusion: Which is Better for Performance?

When comparing Fixed Wireless Access vs. Satellite Internet, FWA delivers better overall performance in key areas such as speed, latency, reliability, and cost. Satellite Internet, while offering broader coverage, tends to fall behind in performance metrics critical for modern internet usage, such as low-latency applications and high-speed connections.

Fixed Wireless Access is especially ideal for users in suburban or rural areas where fiber isn’t available, but there is a strong wireless network infrastructure. With the rise of 5G, FWA is becoming a more powerful and scalable solution for both residential and business users.

For those in the most remote locations where FWA or wired options are unavailable, Satellite Internet provides a reliable alternative, though it may not match the performance of FWA.