Fixed wireless access (FWA) delivers a fixed home or business connection by radio from a provider’s network to equipment at the premises. It can be a practical alternative where fibre is not orderable, but coverage is address-specific and may require an installation survey.
How It Differs from Mobile Broadband
Fixed wireless commonly uses provider-installed outdoor receiving equipment aimed at the provider network. Mobile broadband generally uses a mobile-network SIM in a router or device. Both use radio, but their network, installation and contract characteristics may differ. Ask the provider to name the technology rather than relying on the word “wireless”.
Start with an Address Survey
An online availability result is a useful first filter. A stronger result is confirmation that the provider can install service at the exact building, including a viable equipment position and cable route. Trees, terrain, nearby structures and the receiving point can affect feasibility. Do not assume a neighbour’s installation proves yours.
- Give the provider the full address and Eircode.
- Ask whether an on-site or remote line-of-sight assessment is required.
- Confirm where the external unit, cable and router would go.
- Ask who owns the installed equipment and what must be returned.
- Request the contract summary before accepting the order.
Compare the Contract, Not a Peak Number
Record the advertised, normally available and minimum speeds stated for the service, including upload. Ask how network management, busy periods, data allowances or fair-use policies can affect performance. Check the minimum term, total recurring charge after any introductory offer, installation fee, equipment fee, cancellation process and fault-response route.
Test After Installation
Run a wired test at the router before judging Wi-Fi. Repeat tests during working hours and busy evening periods, capturing download, upload, latency and packet loss. Then test the intended workspace over Wi-Fi. If the wired service is sound but the room is poor, the local network—not the provider link—may need attention.
Keep the installation record, contract summary, tests and fault reference numbers. If performance is materially different from the contract information, contact the provider first and use its complaints route.
Have a Separate Backup
Where work cannot tolerate downtime, avoid making the backup dependent on the same network path or power supply. A SIM on another network may help, but test it at the premises. A nearby workspace may cover longer failures. See our rural broadband backup plan.
Where Fixed Wireless Fits
Use the address-check process first. If orderable fibre meets the need, compare it. If fibre is unavailable, obtain fixed-wireless surveys, test mobile options through the ComReg coverage map and on site, and compare satellite using the provider’s current contract and installation requirements.
Sources and Review Date
Reviewed 25 July 2026. ComReg describes FWA as broadband provided using wireless signals from a nearby mast to fixed equipment at the home. Provider coverage, speeds, prices and terms vary by address and date; this page intentionally does not rank providers or reproduce temporary offers.