FCC Adopts Wireless Backhaul Reform

The Federal Communications Commission made available new spectrum, covering almost two-thirds of the U.S. landmass, for wireless backhaul.

Building on recommendations in the FCC’s National Broadband Plan, these actions will speed the rollout of fourth-generation (4G) broadband networks, accelerate the role of expanded wireless broadband communications in national economic revitalization and job creation, and bring new broadband services to rural areas where microwave is often the only feasible backhaul option. By removing outdated regulatory restrictions, the FCC is also continuing its regulatory reform agenda, which has resulted in the elimination of more than 50 unneeded regulations and efforts to eliminate dozens of unnecessary data collections.

Microwave, or wireless backhaul, facilities are an essential component of many broadband networks, particularly mobile wireless networks, and are often used for the transmission of data between cell sites, or between cell sites and network backbones. Service providers’ use of microwave links as a cost-effective alternative to traditional copper circuits and fiber optic links has increased by approximately 50 percent in recent years.

As the National Broadband Plan had highlighted, removing regulatory barriers to effective spectrum use can result in the unleashing of additional spectrum and drive the national economy. Since wireless backhaul is a critical part of addressing skyrocketing demands for spectrum, making this new spectrum available today is critical to innovation, our economic future, and job creation.

The Report and Order permits fixed microwave operation in several spectrum bands previously reserved for specialized microwave services. The Commission also updates its rules to permit microwave licensees to use adaptive modulation, which will allow them to take advantage of the latest technology to maintain the reliability of critical links. In addition, the Commission provides broadcasters with increased flexibility to use fixed microwave links more freely, by eliminating the outdated “final link” rule.

The Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeks comment on additional proposals for making microwave communications more flexible and cost-effective.