The wireless local loop in developing regions
Mugo Kibati, Donyaprueth Krairit · Communications of the ACM · 1999
Wireless networks are often cited as the most economically feasible solution to the severe dearth of communications infrastructure in developing countries. The article traces the trend of wireless local loop (WLL) in developing regions, focusing on government strategies of installation of voice-centric networks, seemingly oblivious to the growing pervasiveness of the Internet and other forms of data communication. Data communications is as pressing a concern as voice communications in developing countries like Kenya and Thailand. Although both Kenya and Thailand are developing countries, they are characterized by notable differences in the states of their telecommunications sectors, particularly their wireless networks. Unlike mobile cellular, WLL is a relatively new technology in these regions. The central issue facing both Kenya and Thailand is whether to continue upgrading existing voice-centric networks without costly upgrades, or immediately deploy multiservice installations for voice and full Internet access.