Question

What challenges do wireless Internet service providers have to overcome in order to provide "last mile data delivery" to customers? 1. Firstly, WISPs have to overcome the challenge of limited coverage area due to the nature of wireless signals. Obstacles such as buildings, trees, and terrain can affect the signal strength and coverage area, making it difficult for WISPs to provide reliable service. 2. Secondly, WISPs have to address the challenge of network congestion. As more customers connect to the WISP network, bandwidth limitations may result in slow internet speeds or dropped connections.

Answer 1

WISPs struggle with providing last mile data delivery due to limited coverage affected by physical obstacles, and network congestion. The digital divide further complicates these challenges, as many individuals in digital deserts lack access to high-speed Internet. The net neutrality debate also impacts how data delivery is regulated and perceived equity in Internet access.

Step-by-step explanation:

Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) face significant challenges in providing last mile data delivery to customers. Among these challenges are limited coverage areas impacted by physical obstacles that weaken wireless signals, such as buildings and terrain. Furthermore, network congestion can lead to slow Internet speeds and unreliable connections as more users join the network. This problem is exacerbated when we consider the demands of data-heavy activities like video streaming, which has fueled the net neutrality debate over whether Internet traffic should be treated equally.

The concept of the 'digital divide' highlights the plight of individuals residing in 'digital deserts', who lack the necessary access to high-speed Internet connections, making the consumption and creation of digital media difficult. The presence of these deserts signifies the ongoing challenge WISPs and the FCC must tackle in ensuring greater equity in Internet access.

An associated aspect of the debate is the view that heavy regulation of ISPs as common carriers might inhibit the profitability and expansion of Internet services to these underserved areas.

Nonetheless, proponents of net neutrality fear that without it, a tiered Internet system could emerge, causing inequality where only affluent companies can afford high-speed access, disrupting the competitive landscape.