Wireless Access Systems (WAS), including broadband
Wireless Access Systems (WAS) are defined as end-user radio connections to public or private core networks. Technologies in use today for implementing wireless access include cellular, cordless telecommunication, and wireless local area network systems.
Advances in technology and competitive access are driving the revolution towards wireless access infrastructure. Traditionally, the most difficult component of the network to build and the least cost-effective to maintain has proven to be the local access network regardless of a developing or a developed economy. As a result, fixed wireless access to the core network has proven to be an effective alternative in the provision of basic telephone service.
Public and private WLAN (or RLAN) systems are quickly emerging as a preferred access technology. In conjunction with the deployment of - IMT-2000 English only - , WLAN gives operators an opportunity to expand both overall market size and competitive position for data services.
The - ITU Radiocommunication Sector - is actively participating in the development of WAS and its main activities comprise international standardization, including frequency spectrum and technical specifications.