If you are a gamer like me and you're wondering whether fixed wireless internet is good for gaming, the short answer is yes. But there's a caveat to that answer, which I'll explain shortly.
Understanding Fixed-Wireless Technology
Online gaming demands skill, strategy, and a robust and reliable internet connection. With an increasing number of gamers turning to fixed wireless as their gateway to virtual worlds, it's worth exploring whether it meets the gaming community's high-speed, low-latency, and reliability needs.
The Rise of Fixed Wireless in Gaming
Fixed wireless internet, like that offered by AT&T Fixed Wireless Internet, Nextlink, and Rise Broadband, is quickly becoming a preferred choice for gamers, especially in rural areas where traditional broadband options may be limited.
This technology uses radio signals to transmit data, bypassing the need for phone lines or cable systems. With the introduction of 5G fixed wireless technology, the gaming experience has been significantly enhanced, offering faster speeds and reduced latency.
How Fixed Wireless Powers Gaming
Fixed wireless networks can provide high-speed internet access capable of supporting the intense demands of online gaming. Service providers such as Starry Internet and Nextlink leverage 5G home internet and fiber optic technologies to offer speeds and bandwidth that rival traditional cable and DSL internet services.
I use Nextlink Internet for gaming, which utilizes fixed wireless technology. I can play Luna Games via Amazon's cloud gaming service and Xbox & PC online multiplayer games without any issues with speed or latency rates. And I can't even see the tower from my house!
The only caveat is that not everybody will have the same signal strength from their house to the tower location. However, most fixed wireless companies generally offer to have a technician come out and test the signal strength before committing to an installation.
Maximizing Your Gaming Session
High-Speed Internet Access: For seamless gaming, a high-speed internet connection is required. Fixed wireless broadband, with its ability to deliver speeds comparable to 4G LTE and even 5G, ensures that gamers can enjoy minimal lag and uninterrupted play.
Low Latency: Latency, or ping rate, is a gamer's nemesis. Fixed wireless providers are continuously improving their networks to offer lower latency rates, making gaming more responsive and enjoyable. My latency rate on Nextlink is typically around 20ms, which is perfect for gaming.
Stable Connection: A steady internet connection is the backbone of a good gaming experience. With fixed wireless technology, you get a dedicated wireless connection that can be more stable than mobile broadband alternatives, especially in rural settings.
Unlimited Data Plans: Many fixed wireless internet service providers now offer unlimited data plans, allowing gamers to play without worrying about data caps or overage fees.
Choosing the Right Fixed Wireless Provider
When selecting a fixed wireless provider, consider the following:
Upload and Download Speeds: Check if the provider offers sufficient download speed for gaming and upload speed for live streaming and online interactions.
Ping Rate and Latency: A provider like AT&T Fixed Wireless Internet, known for low ping rates, can significantly enhance your gaming experience by reducing latency.
Reliability of Service: Companies like Rise Broadband have a track record of reliable fixed wireless access, ensuring your internet connection remains stable during critical gaming sessions.
Customer Service: A responsive service provider can be a gamer's ally, especially when facing connection issues or needing support.
Enhancing Your Fixed Wireless Setup
Advanced Wireless Technology: Use advanced wireless routers that support the latest wireless technology standards to maximize the speed and coverage of your fixed wireless network.
Direct Wired Connections: For the ultimate gaming experience, consider a wired connection from your fixed wireless network's router to your gaming console or PC.
Quality of Service (QoS): Prioritize your gaming devices using QoS settings on your router to ensure your gaming traffic gets the bandwidth it needs, even during peak hours.
Network Optimization: Keep your firmware updated and optimize your network settings for the best possible speeds and performance.
Monitoring Tools: Use network monitoring tools to keep tabs on your speed, latency, and overall connection quality.
Conclusion
Fixed wireless internet is proving itself to be an excellent option for gaming. With the evolution of 5G and fiber optic technologies, providers offer robust solutions catering to gamers' needs. By understanding fixed wireless capabilities and optimizing your home network, you can transform your gaming sessions into high-speed, action-packed adventures. Whether you're battling it out in an online arena or exploring vast open worlds, fixed wireless can deliver the performance you need to stay competitive and enjoy every moment.
And if you play World of Tanks, Call of Duty, Battlefield, or similar games - perhaps we'll play alongside each other sometime soon, fixed wireless and all ;)
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you get satellite or fixed wireless internet for gaming?
If you can get satellite or fixed wireless internet for gaming, without question, you should always go with fixed wireless internet. It's generally much faster, has lower latency rates, is more reliable, and typically has no data cap.
What is the maximum bandwidth available for fixed wireless?
The maximum bandwidth available for fixed wireless internet can vary greatly depending on the internet service provider, the specific technology used, and the geographical area. Generally, fixed wireless connections can range from as low as a few Mbps to gigabit speeds.
What is the difference between fixed wireless and DSL?
Fixed wireless internet uses radio waves transmitted by a base station to provide internet connectivity, similar to how mobile phones receive data. The signal typically travels from a nearby tower directly to an antenna installed at the customer's location.
DSL provides internet access via existing telephone lines without interfering with the telephone service. It transmits data over copper wires traditionally used for landline telephones.
Depending on the location, Fixed Wireless typically has much higher speeds than DSL, but DSL may have lower latency rates.