Wireless Internet service provider – WISP business is an amazing continuous revenue generation system that is a flexible, expandable and upgradable business model. Companies make money as a WISP by charging for Internet access, communication services and providing value added applications. To help motivate the building of WISP systems, many countries have provided free access to radio frequencies and offer government subsidies, especially to provide broadband Internet in rural areas. WISP systems can be rolled out in small areas – even small neighborhoods, have very low initial equipment cost per customer and tend to automatically without much help after they are setup. This article explains some of the key benefits and opportunities for starting and running WISP systems.
Continuous Revenue Streams – WISP systems typically provide subscription services that are billed each month providing a reliable steady income. The cost to get customers and the disconnect rates are low, especially in rural areas where they have few (if any) other choices. The average revenue for WISP service in the United States was $54 in 2020 and is expected to increase to $79 in 2026 [].
Free use of Shared Radio Frequencies – WISP systems can get access to shared channels such as CBRS without having to buy wireless licenses or compete in spectrum auctions.
Government Grants and Loans – multiple sources of free money (grants) and loans are available from governments and associations – especially to pvodie broadband Internet access to rural areas. WISP owners may get 80% of their initial cost without any repayment.
Flexible Rollout – WISP systems can start in small areas and gradually expand into other areas. It is ok for coverage for WISP systems to be targeted to specific areas. The cost of adding customers is a relatively low Initial Investment, typically 3x-10x less than fiber, coax or DSL.
Automated Systems & Services – WISP systems can use well standardized LTE technology which has self organizing network (SON) automatic network configuration capability – almost plug and play. Once the WISP system and customers are setup, the system tends to automatically operate – very low operational costs.
Bandwidth Upgradeable – Wireless technology continues to improve which means that data rates to fixed customers can continually increase without having to make major investments in new types of fiber, cables and network equipment.
WISPs Customer Relationship – WISP service providers are the connection access point for the customer. This allows WISP to promote and provide additional services such as phone, TV and cloud services. Cloud service partners may pay the WISP new customer activation incentives and offer revenue sharing options.