WISP (Wireless Internet Service Provider)

What It Means

Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) are the backbone of rural broadband in the United States, serving roughly 7 to 8 million subscribers across approximately 2,500 small operators according to WISPA (the Wireless Internet Service Providers Association). A typical WISP operates towers or tall-structure mounts at 60 to 300 foot elevations, delivering broadband to subscriber premises via unlicensed 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz spectrum (under FCC Part 15 rules), lightly licensed 3.65 GHz spectrum, and CBRS (3.5 GHz Citizens Broadband Radio Service) that became commercially available in 2020. WISPs often use equipment from Ubiquiti, Cambium Networks, Mimosa, and Tarana Wireless. Typical speeds range from 25 to 100 Mbps download and 5 to 25 Mbps upload, with monthly prices of $60 to $120. WISPs historically filled the gap in areas unserved by cable or fiber, and many compete directly with Starlink in the rural market. Many WISPs have received Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF, $9.2 billion awarded in 2020) and BEAD support to upgrade to fiber or hybrid fiber-wireless networks. The Broadband Grade counts WISP service toward broadband availability and provider competition, helping rural ZIP codes avoid F grades even when cable and fiber are absent. Notable multi-state WISPs include Rise Broadband, Nextlink Internet, and Aeronet.

Frequently Asked Questions