Webster Broadband is based on a member–owned cooperative model and is different from other commercial utilities because it focuses on service rather than profits. To keep costs low, the work involved in designing and building the network was performed by volunteers. As shareholders, customers benefit from the co-op’s profits, which are reinvested in the network.
The Founding Members: Chris Leonello, Aaron Ridley, Stratos Kotzabassi, Josh Barclay, Clif Flynt, Jeff Dohner.
The Network
The fixed wireless network consists of a leased high-speed internet connection that is transmitted over radio waves from a fixed access point on the tower to a fixed antenna on the subscriber's home. The Backhaul, or the “uplink” to the internet, is provided through a dedicated, scalable, hi-speed wireless microwave link to the internet backbone.
The endpoint of the system is at the member’s residence, and consists of a small outdoor directional antenna mounted so that it faces the tower. Different types of equipment may be used at the subscriber’s home to provide service in difficult locations (trees, hills, etc.).
The Cooperative is using the same equipment and methods to deploy service that are widely used by other WISP’s (Wireless Internet Service Providers) throughout the country. The Cooperative has consulted extensively with other WISP’s, wireless industry veterans and wireless technology suppliers.
Site Survey
In order for connectivity, fixed wireless internet works best with a direct line of site from the antenna at the subscriber location to the access point on the tower. To determine the amount of obstruction at each subscriber location, we use information from Google Earth to establish if there are trees or hills along the path. This is useful in knowing what kind of equipment is needed, and where to place it.
