Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is an alternative to wired access to the internet, particularly in areas where fiber or copper infrastructure is too expensive or logistically difficult to deploy. Modems and routers for FWA are commercially available in the Netherlands and some Dutch mobile operators offer an all-you-can-eat mobile subscription plan that together serves as a connection to the wired infrastructure. In addition, the recent developments in the 5G standards will enable non-terrestrial networks (comprised of various satellites) to integrate with the 5G networks on the earth surface. This will increase the support across mobile handsets and chipsets and improve performance. It may serve as an alternative to the products and services of mobile operators.

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The use case for institutes of research and education includes research activities in rural areas and/or internet access for a branch office with no stringent network requirements that is in an area with no fixed network infrastructure.