There are several different types of internet networks available in New Zealand. Most Kiwis are connected to fibre. However, some may need to choose alternatives such as wireless, when fibre isn’t available to them. For small and medium sized households who only use the internet for social media, online banking, email, and basic video streaming, wireless can be a great choice as it offers faster speeds than copper and VDSL services. Sometimes, the speeds can be similar to those of fibre 50!
It has allowed rural communities in Aotearoa to get connected to fast speeds, removing the barrier for connectivity. It even works as a great option for some Kiwis in urban areas such as those in student accommodation.
If you’re curious about wireless, this article will unpack how the technology works so you can decide if it’s a good choice for you.
Wireless broadband is a type of network that doesn’t use cables or wires to operate. Common for rural areas where it’s difficult to install fibre cables, the wireless network instead uses cell phone towers to send the internet signal. It’s the same way our mobile phones receive internet data when not connected to Wifi.
Wireless broadband, in short, uses radio waves to transmit data. Its journey begins at the cell tower. Here, radio waves are emitted at a certain frequency, pushing the signal out to the local area. Any home or business in the area that has a router can detect this signal. They can then send and receive data using the airwaves as the path for the data to travel back and forth on.
These radio waves are the same waves we use for radio and TV signals. However, they are at a different frequency – one designed for transmitting internet data rather than audio and video.
In order for the signal to work optimally, there must be a clear line between the tower and the modem in your home. So, sometimes things such as trees can get in the way. This is why the location and placement of towers must be thoughtfully planned. They tend to be installed in high, open places so they can maximise their signal reach and make sure the connection is reliable and clear from one tower, to the next, and to your modem.
These days, wireless offers fast speeds. With 4G and 5G options on the market, you can experience speeds that are similar to fibre 50! For those in rural communities, and smaller households who have few devices connected to the internet at the same time, wireless broadband is a great option.
Now that you know how wireless broadband works, be sure to compare wireless plans to find the cheapest deal. Broadband Compare empowers you to compare plans within just minutes. Compare wireless plans available to you side-by-side, select your preferences so you can make a fully informed choice, and find the cheapest deal without compromising your internet needs. This is a great way to find the best value out there and save money. Why pay more when you can pay less and save money on your wireless broadband plan?
