Ever wondered how to bypass the middleman and become your own internet service provider? We’ll show you what’s really involved and if it’s worth the cost.
Have you ever wondered if you can make your own internet service provider?
Yes, you can create your own ISP. Plenty of people have undertaken this task, especially in rural or remote areas where high-speed internet is hard to come by, such as areas without cable or phone lines. Typically, you will find these internet providers labeled as local or regional ISPs, and they often operate on a fixed-wireless network or close-range satellite system.
Some smaller cities have taken on the responsibility to provide internet service to their citizens by creating free or subsidized municipal internet networks. If you think a municipal broadband network will serve your community best, you can check out how to advocate for this in the community guide to advocating for better broadband service. You can also learn more about what some of the best broadband cities in the world, such as Chattanooga, TN, did to transform their broadband service.
How to start an ISP
Your best option for an ISP start-up is to create a regional wireless internet service provider, also known as a WISP. These types of internet networks are easier to establish because they use mainly radio towers and a series of close-range antennas. WISPs are ideal for providing internet to rural communities at speeds fast enough to accommodate gaming, streaming and working from home.
What is a WISP?
Put simply, a WISP is a small internet service provider that uses a series of towers to provide high-speed internet and Wi-Fi service in a local area. Typically, speeds offered by a WISP are around 50 Mbps. WISPs tend to offer reliable and inexpensive internet service that is not negatively affected by extreme weather conditions.
Starting a WISP
Setting aside the overhead costs and permits required to develop a WISP, what do the actual physical requirements involve? For fixed-wireless, which uses radio waves, you will need access to a location with a high elevation to transmit the service. This location also must have the ability to connect to fiber optic cables, or you will need to have internet cables installed. This is probably the most expensive part of the setup, along with purchasing the necessary hardware.
You will also need corresponding elevated areas to put your antenna towers that will help transmit the internet signal throughout the service area. And of course, if you plan on getting a return on your investment, you will want to get the word out and advertise to the locals about the service you are providing. The upside is not only will you get the satisfaction of bringing internet service to your friends and neighbors, but you will also be bringing jobs to your community.
Does it make sense to start an ISP?
As you’ve seen, it can be quite expensive, and time-consuming, to become your own internet service provider. However, many people — including small business entrepreneurs and local towns — have undertaken this task with satisfactory results. Bottom line, it can make sense to become your own ISP, or start up a regional ISP, if you have these three things:
- Limited internet availability in the area
- Enough interested residents to utilize the service
- Startup capital
If you’re serious about starting an ISP in your area, check out the Fiber Broadband Association to see what government grants might be available in your area. You can also apply for federal funding via the USDA’s ReConnect Loan and Grant program.