Airband, the UK’s largest wireless internet service provider, has announced a new partnership with broadband technology company Tarana, aiming to deliver high-speed internet to 265,000 homes and businesses that cannot be reached by traditional fibre networks. The collaboration leverages Tarana’s next-generation fixed wireless access (ngFWA) technology, a breakthrough in the industry that promises fibre-level speeds without the need for extensive infrastructure, making it ideal for remote or difficult-to-access areas.
The announcement was made today, highlighting the significant expansion in internet coverage for rural areas, where broadband access has long been limited. The partnership will allow Airband to bring reliable and fast internet, with speeds of up to 400Mbps, to areas previously left behind by traditional broadband networks.
Innovative Wireless Technology
At the heart of the partnership is Tarana’s cutting-edge ngFWA platform, dubbed “G1”. This technology has been lauded for its ability to overcome long-standing issues faced by wireless broadband, including disruptions caused by physical obstructions and radio interference. This makes it a viable alternative to fibre networks, especially in areas where laying fibre cables is either impractical or cost-prohibitive. Tarana’s G1 system allows for rapid deployment and at a fraction of the cost of fibre, which has long been considered the gold standard for high-speed internet.
With more than 250 operators across 24 countries already adopting Tarana’s ngFWA technology, Airband is the latest provider to join the ranks of those transforming their broadband offerings using this innovative platform.
A Hybrid Approach to Internet Access
Airband’s hybrid approach to broadband, which combines fibre and wireless technologies, allows it to be highly adaptable in its delivery of services. This flexibility is especially important in the UK, where rural and remote areas often face significant logistical challenges for fibre installation, such as limited road access or an absence of necessary infrastructure. With Tarana’s wireless technology, Airband will now be able to deliver high-speed internet to these underserved regions, providing a solution to the digital divide that has plagued rural communities.
Expanding Access Across the UK
Kash Rahman, Managing Director at Airband, expressed excitement about the partnership and its potential to revolutionise connectivity in hard-to-reach areas. “With Tarana, we’re putting connectivity first,” Rahman said. “ngFWA has made it simpler for us to grow our network and connect more homes and businesses. We look forward to bringing high-speed service to more communities that are waiting for a better broadband option.”
Basil Alwan, CEO of Tarana, echoed Rahman’s sentiments, saying, “We are thrilled to see ngFWA technology taking off in the UK. Airband is dedicated to their customers, and we are honoured to support them as they expand into new territories to further narrow the country’s digital divide.”
As the partnership progresses, it is expected to significantly improve broadband access across rural parts of the UK, bringing modern internet speeds to homes and businesses that have long lacked reliable connectivity. This initiative is a major step towards bridging the gap in digital services between urban centres and remote communities.