Wireless vs. Mobile Communications

Wireless telecommunications can be divided into two broad categories: mobile communications and fixed wireless communications. Each category has its own unique market in terms of customer needs and technology requirements. The mobile communications market requires mobility or non-tethered communications.

The goal of mobility is anytime, anywhere communications. Mobile communications technology must be able to allow roaming - the ability to provide service to a mobile phone users while outside their home system. On the other hand, fixed wireless is simply an alternative to wired communications. The fixed wireless user does not need mobility. Instead, the fixed wireless user needs cost effective telecommunications from fixed locations. Wireless is an alternative means of providing service. It is sometimes the only means. When the customer is in a remote location, satellite is the only alternative.