Definition[]
A wireless internet service provider (WISP) uses unlicensed devices to provide broadband service on a point-to-point basis.
Overview[]
WISPs networks can span many miles, including multi-county and multi-regional geographic areas. Some WISPs serve major metropolitan areas like New York and Chicago, other WISPs serve smaller cities like Tampa and St. Louis, and yet others serve very small communities.
One of the most significant market sectors for WISPs are rural and underserved areas, many of which do not have access to either cable or DSL services. Subscriber bases for WISPs also vary, from fewer than 100 to tens of thousands.