Essential Considerations for Designing a Robust Wireless Backhaul Network

Wireless backhaul plays a critical role in modern telecommunications networks, serving as the vital link between access points and the core network. With the advancement of millimetre wave technology, achieving high-speed, reliable wireless backhaul has become a reality. This article explores the key factors to consider when designing a dependable wireless backhaul network, emphasising the innovative solutions offered by Siklu.

Wireless Backhaul Fundamentals

Wireless backhaul refers to the technology and infrastructure facilitating the transmission of data and voice traffic between end users and the core network. Siklu, a leading provider, has established itself as a pioneer in delivering gigabit speeds across numerous cities worldwide, utilising millimetre wave technology to achieve remarkable performance at an unbeatable price-per-megabit. 

Key Factors in Wireless Backhaul Network Design

To ensure a reliable wireless backhaul network, several essential factors must be considered: 

Frequency Band and Coverage Area:

The choice of frequency band is critical, as different bands possess distinct characteristics in terms of range, throughput, and susceptibility to interference. Aligning the frequency band with the network's requirements and minimising interference from nearby wireless devices or networks is of paramount importance. Additionally, accurately determining the coverage area and capacity requirements aids in selecting suitable equipment and technologies for optimal network performance. Siklu's Link Budget Calculator provides invaluable insights into estimating network performance and coverage.

Multi-gigabit Bandwidth

To meet the increasing demand for data and voice traffic, the wireless backhaul network must provide ample bandwidth. Gigabit-speed connectivity has become an expectation in modern, developed areas where remote schooling and work are commonplace. Siklu's EH-8010FX operates over the interference-free E-Band spectrum, boasting a substantial 10GHz of bandwidth for global usage. Leveraging high-gain pencil-beam antennas ensures maximum spectrum availability and reusability. Furthermore, E-band systems offer low licensing fees and swift licensing processes.

Low Latency

Designing a backhaul network with low latency is crucial for real-time applications such as voice and video calls, online gaming, and security systems. Minimising latency improves user experience and increases customer retention. Siklu's solutions deliver reliable video streams with zero packet loss and virtually no interference, making them ideal for mission-critical applications such as security networks.

Security and Reliability

Ensuring the wireless backhaul network's security and reliability is paramount. Redundancy mechanisms and failover systems should be implemented to guarantee high availability. Siklu's mmWave systems provide narrow beam angles, making wireless signal interception nearly impossible without detection. Furthermore, robust security measures, including AES encryption and secure user access, mitigate risks and safeguard against potential threats.

Scalability

To accommodate future growth in network traffic and subscriber base, the wireless backhaul network should be scalable. Planning for scalability from the outset prevents costly network upgrades in the future. Siklu's SmartHaul™ Wireless Network Design Engine (WiNDE) automates the creation of complete wireless backhaul networks using millimetre wave technology. WiNDE reduces complex work and tedious details, allowing operators to scale their networks efficiently.

Cost Advantages of Wireless Backhaul Networks

Wireless backhaul networks offer cost optimisation while maintaining optimal performance. SmartHaul™ WiNDE supports various topologies, including Point-to-Multipoint (P2MP) and MultiHaul Terragraph (MH TG) mesh topologies, enabling network designers to optimize for performance or cost. The app provides thorough analysis and assigns frequencies efficiently, resulting in interference-free designs that meet performance goals. Centralised fault management, performance management, and configuration management features contribute to OPEX reduction, saving resources and time. 

Conclusion

Designing a reliable wireless backhaul network requires careful consideration of critical factors such as frequency band selection, coverage area assessment, multi-gigabit bandwidth provision, low latency, security, reliability, scalability, and cost optimization. Siklu's innovative solutions, including the Link Budget Calculator and WiNDE, empower network designers to create robust networks that meet the demands of today's connectivity requirements. By implementing these considerations and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, telecommunications operators can establish dependable wireless backhaul networks that drive seamless connectivity.

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