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How To Choose: Fixed Wireless Internet Vs. Fiber and Cable

Why Choose Fixed Wireless Internet over Fiber or Cable?

Fixed wireless internet has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. When the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released its 2022 Communications Marketplace Report  at the start of 2023, it showed that fixed wireless internet now covers 84.8% of the population, beating out fiber and cable internet. It grew the fastest of all three technologies, with residential fixed wireless connections increasing by 76% in two years.

VGI Technology is a provider of fixed wireless internet in San Angelo, TX and surrounding communities. This means we are often asked why consumers should choose fixed wireless internet over fiber and cable. Here are some of the reasons we strongly recommend it.

Fixed Wireless Offers Outstanding Internet Speed

In 2023, there’s no excuse for slow internet — and yet, it continues to impact large parts of the population. One Consumer Reports survey shows that only 18% of Americans would call their internet speed “excellent.” Whether a user is impacted by issues like limited bandwidth or high latency, the root cause can typically be traced back to their ISP. By choosing an ISP that offers a reliable fixed wireless service, users can enjoy internet speed of up to 400 Mbps. That’s enough speed to use the internet for work, streaming, gaming or simply surfing, all on demand.

Fixed wireless technology uses advanced radio signals transmitted from nearby cell towers to receivers installed at the user’s location. This setup reduces latency and ensures a stable connection, allowing for smooth video calls, fast downloads, and uninterrupted streaming. Unlike satellite internet, which suffers from high latency due to the long distance signals must travel, fixed wireless provides a more immediate response, making it a superior choice for high-speed internet needs.

Fixed Wireless Requires Minimual Infrastructure

Some communities lack the underground infrastructure to support fiber or cable networks. In those locations, fixed wireless can be the answer. Fixed wireless internet relies on cellular towers, eliminating the need for invasive underground trenching or unsightly aerial fibers that violate the rules of homeowner associations.  As your new ISP, VGI Technology will install a powerful receiver on your property that communicates with the cell tower to seamlessly deliver high speed internet to your address.

This method is particularly beneficial in areas with challenging terrains, such as regions with rocky soil or granite beneath the surface, where trenching for fiber cables is not feasible. Fixed wireless circumvents these physical barriers, providing a reliable alternative without the need for extensive and expensive infrastructure projects. It also means quicker installation times, so you can get connected faster without waiting for lengthy construction processes.

Fixed Wireless Can Quickly Serve New Communities

In 2021, VGI Technology partnered with Tarana to deploy fixed wireless internet in Horseshoe Bay and Marble Falls, two communities that lacked viable high speed internet options. In the two years since we piloted this program, our fixed wireless internet has delivered such unprecedented performance that the communities are clearing the way for new towers to cover even more residents. In Horseshoe Bay, the local council’s lengthy fight for better broadband has been resolved thanks to our large-scale deployment. This shows that fixed wireless internet can easily cover entire communities, so everyone gets the connectivity they deserve in areas where high speed internet did not previously exist.

Fixed wireless technology’s flexibility allows for scalable deployments that can quickly adapt to the needs of growing communities. As more residents come online, additional cell towers or upgraded equipment can be added to ensure everyone enjoys the same high-speed internet without degradation in service quality. This adaptability makes fixed wireless an excellent solution for both urban and rural areas where traditional wired connections might not be practical or economically viable.

Fixed Wireless Advantages Over Fiber and Cable

While fiber and cable internet offer high speeds, they come with significant installation and maintenance challenges. Fiber optic cables require extensive trenching and can be disrupted by construction projects, natural disasters, or even routine maintenance. Cable internet, while widely available, often suffers from congestion during peak usage times, leading to inconsistent speeds and reliability.

Fixed wireless internet, by contrast, leverages existing cellular infrastructure, making it less vulnerable to physical disruptions. The use of modern technologies like non-line-of-sight (NLOS) capabilities means that signals can travel through obstacles like trees and buildings, maintaining a stable connection even in densely populated or heavily wooded areas. This robustness is a key advantage, particularly in regions prone to severe weather or where laying cables is impractical.

It’s The Cost-Effective Solution

For many consumers and municipalities, fixed wireless internet is also a more cost-effective solution. The lower installation costs and quicker deployment times translate into savings that can be passed on to customers. This makes high-speed internet accessible to a broader audience, including underserved rural communities that have long struggled with inadequate connectivity options. Whether you need internet service in Marble Falls or another internet-connected service, we are happy to help.

Lower Environmental Impact

Another often-overlooked benefit of fixed wireless internet is its lower environmental impact compared to fiber and cable installations. Trenching for fiber can disturb local ecosystems, and maintaining extensive cable networks can lead to ongoing environmental disruptions. Fixed wireless, utilizing cell towers and small receivers, minimizes the ecological footprint, making it a greener choice for sustainable connectivity.

About VGI Technology

VGI Technology is a full-service technology company offering a wide suite of security and access control hardware, along with fiber and wireless internet services for homes & businesses. Born as a local San Angelo business, VGI has grown to service the entire state of Texas while focusing primarily in the regions of Concho Valley, Permian Basin and Highland Lakes markets of San Angelo, Midland/Odessa, Big Lake, Eldorado, Sonora, Ballinger, Brownwood, Garden City, internet in Sterling City, Mertzon, Eldorado, Marble Falls and Horseshoe Bay. Visit http://www.vgitechnology.com/ to inquire about service in your area.

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