Farmers gain from wireless networks
As part of our Battling for Broadband campaign, we’re looking at different methods farmers can use to set up their own broadband connections. This week, Robyn Vinter looks into wireless networks.
Farmers can benefit hugely from wireless broadband through a provider. Wireless masts need to be mounted to tall structures making farm buildings perfect hosts.
How does it work?
Homes and businesses receive broadband via a receiver attached to the outside of their property, which picks up the signal from wireless access points. The mast could be receiving the broadband connection from a number of sources – for example, fibre optic cables, satellite or a wider wireless network.
Benefits
• Flexible in terms of the number of people it can reach
• Cost-effective compared to other methods
• Easily installed, maintained and upgraded
• Can support high speeds
• Reliable.
Downsides
• Signal degrades over distance
• Hills and landscape features such as buildings and trees can block the signal.
Read the full feature on wireless broadband