first thanks to the guys who answered my questions
In short it looks like UBNT sells the equipment a WISP needs to set up a base and sell internet
The Web has become so rich with multimedia content that users everywhere are demanding more and more bandwidth. Regardless of the market — whether it is urban, suburban, or rural — a broadband wireless Internet access (BWIA) solution is by far the most cost effective and quickest way to reach the most customers.
Today’s Internet service providers need high-speed solutions which can be quickly and cost-effectively deployed across wide geographic areas to reach the most possible customers. Fixed broadband wireless access products from Trango enable Internet service providers to deliver broadband access for a surprisingly low cost of deployment and a high return on investment (ROI).
What is a WISP?
A WISP is a Wireless Internet Service Provider. WISPs offer broadband Internet services to business and residential customers utilizing radio-based point-to-multipoint networks. Many WISPs operate hybrid networks which consist of both wired and wireless Internet access infrastructure. Through wireless deployments, traditional wired ISPs have been able to greatly expand their service offerings, enlarge their network footprint (coverage areas) and increase their bottom line profit.
Most WISPs utilize equipment which operates in the license-free spectrum (2.4 GHz, 5.3 GHz, and 5.8 GHz) to deliver “last mile” access. With the right equipment, a WISP can enjoy quick ROI while offering their customers very dependable, high speed, always-on, broadband Internet access service.
Many WISPs around the world have enjoyed great success due to the low entry, low deployment, and low maintenance costs of fixed broadband wireless “last mile” solutions. Building a wireless network infrastructure involves less equipment and less maintenance than traditional cable and fiber providers.
Are WISPS the customers for UBNT solely? I can understand some of what they sell–antennas, radios & routers. I went to Ubiquiti global and found two local businesses selling internet connections. It would appear that any of us could set up a receiver and get RF ourselves and be our own WISP. Cost is no doubt a limiting factor
Does anyone have any idea of the cost of setting up a WISP?
Is this what they like to call a last mile service? And if so, is the internet just floating around out there in RF-land free for the taking if you have the equipment to capture it?
thanks