WLANs Go the Last Mile

Supporting anecdotal evidence that people are setting up wireless LANs (WLANs) helter-skelter in homes and around the world, new research shows that WLANs could solve broadband Internet's last-mile problem by providing access in neighborhoods that aren't adequately wired for it. Juniper Research forecasts ( see graph ) a fivefold jump in revenues that US Wireless ISPs (WISPs) and their customers will generate over the next 3 years, and a tenfold jump worldwide. Furthermore, WLANs have some compelling characteristics for ISPs: There are no licensing fees; a national network isn't necessary; and WLANs use standard, low-cost technology.

—Elliot King