Unlicensed vs. Licensed Outdoor Wireless: Making the Right Choice

What is Unlicensed Outdoor Wireless?

Unlicensed wireless networks operate in frequency bands that are open for public use without the need for regulatory approval. These bands are governed by organizations like the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States and similar regulatory bodies worldwide. Common unlicensed frequency bands include 902MHz-928MHZ, 2.4GHz, 5.xGHz, 24GHz, and 60GHz. The 5GHz band is most popular for both indoor Wi-Fi and outdoor point-to-point and point-to-multipoint wireless broadband (also known as FWA - Fixed Wireless Access).

Advantages of Unlicensed Wireless

• Cost-Effective: Since there is no licensing fee, deploying unlicensed wireless solutions is generally more affordable.

• Faster Deployment: No lengthy regulatory approval processes enable rapid network installation.

• Widely Available Equipment: Many consumer and enterprise-grade devices operate on unlicensed frequencies, providing a broad selection of hardware options.

• Easily Redeployable: Unlicensed radios do not require FCC approval for each application, allowing them to be removed from one setup and reused elsewhere as needed.

  
  

Challenges of Unlicensed Wireless

• Interference Issues: Multiple users share the same spectrum, causing potential congestion and performance degradation.

• Limited Security and Reliability: Due to shared frequencies, unlicensed wireless is more susceptible to interference and potential security threats.

• Lower Quality of Service (QoS): Inconsistent performance due to external interference can impact critical applications like VoIP and video streaming.

• TDD Aggregated Throughput: When evaluating performance, understanding how Time Division Duplexing (TDD) impacts throughput is essential. Unlike licensed radios that may operate using Frequency Division Duplexing (FDD), most unlicensed radios use a single channel for both transmitting and receiving data.

  
  

  TDD functions similarly to a “talk-then-listen” system, similar to a half-duplex communication method. This means that the radio alternates between sending and receiving data rather than transmitting and receiving simultaneously. As a result, the total throughput of a TDD system is typically measured as aggregated capacity, accounting for both directions of data flow.

  
  

What is Licensed Outdoor Wireless?

Licensed wireless operates on frequency bands that require regulatory approval and grant exclusive rights to use a specific channel or band. Organizations must apply for a license through government agencies, which assign dedicated spectrum allocations to minimize interference. Licensed frequencies can include VHF, UHF, 900Mhz MAS, 3.5GHz CBRS, 6GHz, 11GHz, 18GHz, 23GHz, and 80GHz (which is not technically licensed but needs to be registered with the FCC).

Advantages of Licensed Wireless

• Guaranteed Spectrum Protection: A licensed frequency ensures exclusive use, minimizing interference and providing better reliability.

• Higher Security: Licensed bands offer stronger protection against unauthorized usage or interference.

• Superior Performance and QoS: Dedicated channels provide stable connectivity with reduced latency and higher throughput.

• Operates in FDD: Licensed wireless backhaul can be a true fiber replacement by operating in FDD, allowing two simultaneous data streams on separate channels. This provides higher capacity than unlicensed wireless and can achieve speeds of 10Gbps+ up to 100Gbps.

  
  

Challenges of Licensed Wireless

• Higher Costs: Licensing fees and administrative costs can make licensed wireless solutions slightly more expensive but can be worth the investment.

• Longer Deployment Time: The application and approval processes can delay network setup. A typical FCC license can take around 30 days.

• Regulatory Compliance: Businesses must adhere to strict rules and guidelines when using licensed frequencies.

  
  

Comparing TDD and FDD Performance

Since TDD radios share the same channel for both transmitting and receiving, their advertised throughput represents the total combined capacity rather than the actual one-way data rate. For example, a 1 Gbps unlicensed radio operating in TDD mode effectively delivers around 500 Mbps in each direction. This makes it more comparable to a 500 Mbps full-duplex (FDD) radio, which transmits and receives data simultaneously on separate channels.

Key Takeaways

• TDD radios use a single frequency channel, alternating between transmit and receive.

• Throughput is measured as aggregated capacity, reflecting the total of both directions combined.

• 1 Gbps TDD radio provides a similar experience to a 500 Mbps FDD radio, making FDD more akin to fiber-based connections.

  
  

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting wireless solutions that meet expectations and ensure optimal network performance.

Choosing the Right Solution for Your Needs

The choice between unlicensed and licensed outdoor wireless depends on various factors, including budget, required performance, security needs, and environmental conditions.

Unlicensed Wireless for Flexibility

• For small businesses, residential areas, or temporary installations, unlicensed wireless may be a suitable and cost-effective option. Its ease of deployment and lower costs are attractive for non-critical applications.

  
  

Licensed Wireless for Reliability

• For enterprises, critical infrastructure, and high-reliability applications, licensed wireless is often the better choice due to its stability and security. The investment in licensed solutions typically yields higher performance and a more secure connection.

  
  

By understanding these differences, businesses and individuals can select the most appropriate wireless solution for their connectivity needs, ensuring optimal performance and reliability in outdoor environments.

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By considering both unlicensed and licensed options, you will be better equipped to choose a wireless network that meets your specific requirements. For example, if you are looking for a cost-effective solution for routine tasks, unlicensed frequencies may suffice. However, if your needs include high-stakes operations that require maximum security and performance, investing in licensed frequencies could be the better route.

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With these insights, you can make a well-informed decision that enhances your outdoor connectivity experience.