Starting A WISP
Starting a Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP) involves several key steps to ensure a successful and sustainable business.
Here is some general guidance and information to review and research before embarking on becoming a WISP –
Research and Planning
Market Analysis: Understand the demand for internet services in your target area. Identify competitors and assess their strengths and weaknesses.
Regulatory Compliance: Research and comply with local regulations, including licensing and frequency allocation.
Business Model
Define Services: Determine the types of services you’ll offer, such as residential broadband, business plans, or specialized services.
Pricing Strategy: Develop a competitive and sustainable pricing strategy for your services.
Revenue Streams: Explore additional revenue streams, such as equipment sales, maintenance contracts, or value-added services.
Network Design
Coverage Area: Identify the geographic area you’ll cover. Consider factors like population density, topography, and potential obstacles.
Frequency Spectrum: Choose the frequency bands suitable for your network. This decision affects range, data rates, and interference.
Equipment Selection: Select reliable and scalable equipment for your network infrastructure, including access points, backhaul links, and customer premises equipment (CPE).
Spectrum Acquisition
License or Unlicensed Bands: Determine whether you’ll operate in licensed or unlicensed frequency bands. Acquire any necessary licenses.
Interference Management: Implement mechanisms to mitigate interference from other wireless networks.
Infrastructure Deployment
Towers and Antennas: Set up towers or use existing structures for antennas. Optimize antenna placement for maximum coverage.
Backhaul Connection: Establish robust backhaul connections to connect your access points to the internet.
Billing and Customer Management
Billing System: Implement a billing system to manage customer subscriptions, payments, and usage tracking.
Customer Support: Develop a customer support system for inquiries, technical support, and issue resolution.
Marketing and Sales
Brand and Positioning: Develop a strong brand and position your WISP effectively in the market.
Sales Channels: Define your sales channels, such as online sales, direct sales, or partnerships with local businesses.
Marketing Strategy: Implement marketing strategies to attract and retain customers.
Security and Reliability
Network Security: Implement robust security measures to protect your network and customer data.
Redundancy: Build redundancy into critical components to ensure network reliability.
Marketing Strategy: Implement marketing strategies to attract and retain customers.
Monitoring and Maintenance
Network Monitoring: Set up tools for real-time monitoring of network performance and identify and address issues promptly.
Regular Maintenance: Establish a schedule for routine maintenance and upgrades.
Scaling and Growth
Scalability: Plan for the scalability of your network to accommodate growth in the number of subscribers.
Technology Upgrades: Stay updated on technological advancements and be prepared to upgrade your infrastructure accordingly.
Driving success to your business
Remember that starting a WISP involves a significant upfront investment, so thorough planning and execution are crucial. Seek advice from industry experts, attend relevant conferences, and consider consulting with professionals to ensure success in your venture.
WISPAU Insights
WISPAU can help WISP start ups by providing expert guidance from those with experience in the business.
Vendor Guidance
WISPAU can assist start ups with access to Vendors to allow WISP’s to make the best decision based on their requirements.
about WISPAU
WISPAU represents the Wireless Internet Service Providers of Australia, achieving greater coverage, overall competitiveness in the broadband market and offering a local service that delivers economic benefits for the areas they cover.
