Size matters: next generation wireless networks[industry forum]

Broadband wireless deployments, so-called fourth generation (4G) networks, are now considered the holy grail for most operators primarily to maintain their revenue growth and, of course, subscriber base. The rapid build-out of wireless fidelity (WiFi) hotspots and planned municipal WiFi networks around the world has further fueled consumer expectations. However, there are problems: broadband wireless is restricted in range and consequently requires a significant number of access points (APs) to make the coverage ubiquitous and reliable. Furthermore, the installation costs of such a large number of wired APs to build a broadband network can make it very unprofitable for Internet providers.