Broadband Technology is Transforming the Enterprise WAN
Broadband technologies are at the heart of the transformation of the enterprise WAN. Wired broadband, Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and Non-Terrestrial Networks (or satellite) are now being leveraged as a strategic WAN connectivity solution in enterprise networks, globally.
In this 10-minute podcast, David Lee and Brent Knight join Tony Mangino to discuss the broadband technologies being deployed to deliver enterprise grade solutions that are high bandwidth, low cost and resilient.
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Broadband Technology is Transforming the Enterprise WAN
The Evolution of Broadband Services
David Lee kicked off the conversation by providing a historical overview of broadband services. He explained that traditional broadband, delivered via copper-based xDSL or coaxial cables, is still prevalent in rural areas. However, advancements in technology and reduced costs have led to new broadband and IPTV entrants, creating a competitive landscape. This shift has resulted in greater speeds at lower costs per megabit per second compared to Dedicated Internet Access (DIA) or MPLS. Many Fortune 100 enterprises are now leveraging broadband as a strategic WAN connectivity solution 1.
Key Technologies Driving Transformation
David categorized the technologies driving this transformation into three areas: Wireline, Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), and Non-Terrestrial Networks (Satellite).
Wireline Technology: The deployment of fiber to the premise (FTTP) and the use of passive optical networking (PON) equipment have enabled 10Gbps symmetrical bandwidth to the premise. Cable companies have also upgraded their DOCSIS standards, with DOCSIS 4.0 promising uplink speeds of up to 6Gbps 1.
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA): FWA includes technologies like 5G and point-to-point microwave, using radio spectrum to connect fixed points. This provides a cost-effective alternative to trenching and deploying fiber, especially in areas with limited wired connectivity options 1.
Non-Terrestrial Networks (Satellite): Brent Knight highlighted the growing excitement around LEO satellites, particularly Starlink and Project Kuiper. Starlink, with over 6,300 satellites in orbit, offers low-latency service options for remote locations. Project Kuiper, Amazon’s broadband initiative, aims to provide up to 100 Gbps speed with its planned deployment of over 3,200 LEO satellites 1.
Brent shared anecdotal examples of clients transitioning from MPLS to broadband. One client achieved over 50% cost savings and increased bandwidth by utilizing a combination of wired broadband, DIA, and FWA. Another client, a global agribusiness, leveraged LEO satellite broadband to meet the connectivity needs of remote locations, demonstrating the game-changing potential of satellite technology.
The podcast concluded with a discussion on the bright future of broadband in the enterprise WAN. While MPLS still has relevant use cases, dedicated Internet and broadband are making significant inroads, offering cost-effective and resilient connectivity solutions. For more information or to discuss ICT needs, listeners are encouraged to contact Tony, David, Brent, or their colleagues at LB3 and TC2.
