There are three main types of spectrum access for wireless Internet:

Licensed Spectrum

Licensed spectrum is allocated by regulatory bodies like the FCC to specific users or companies[4]. Key characteristics include:

• Requires an official license to use
• Offers guaranteed quality of service and minimal interference
• Ideal for applications requiring high reliability and performance
• Typically used by major wireless carriers for cellular networks
• Provides more spectrum availability for large-scale deployments

Unlicensed Spectrum

Unlicensed spectrum is open for public use without requiring a specific license[4]. Notable features are:

• Anyone can use it without obtaining a license
• Includes bands like 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz used for Wi-Fi
• May experience interference due to shared usage
• Suitable for applications that can tolerate some performance variability
• Cost-effective option for smaller-scale deployments

Shared Spectrum

Shared spectrum is a newer model that allows for more efficient use of available frequencies[1][4]. Key aspects include:

• Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) is a prominent example
• Uses the 3550-3700 MHz band in the US
• Implements a three-tiered access system:
  1. Incumbent users (highest priority)
  2. Priority Access License (PAL) users
  3. General Authorized Access (GAA) users
• Managed by a Spectrum Access System (SAS) to coordinate usage and minimize interference
• Offers a balance between licensed and unlicensed spectrum benefits

Shared spectrum, particularly CBRS, is gaining traction for private wireless networks and expanding 5G coverage[5].

Dynamic Spectrum Access (DSA)

DSA is an emerging technology that aims to optimize spectrum utilization[3][6]:

• Allows devices to share multiple frequency bands without interfering with legacy systems
• Improves spectrum utilization in frequency, location, and time dimensions
• Enables opportunistic use of available frequencies
• Devices can quickly switch channels when non-cooperative users are detected
• Enhances overall spectrum efficiency and network deployment flexibility

By understanding these spectrum access types, organizations can choose the most appropriate option for their wireless Internet needs based on factors such as reliability requirements, scale of deployment, and cost considerations.

Sources [1] Spectrum Access System | Google Cloud https://cloud.google.com/spectrum-access-system/docs/overview [2] Spectrum Management For Wireless Network – STL Tech https://stl.tech/blog/spectrum-management-for-wireless-network/ [3] [PDF] Dynamic Spectrum Access https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=914583 [4] Licensed vs. Unlicensed Spectrum for Private Wireless Networks https://www.verizon.com/business/resources/articles/s/how-to-decide-your-private-wireless-network-licensed-vs-unlicensed-spectrum/ [5] Spectrum Access System (SAS) – Google Cloud https://cloud.google.com/products/spectrum-access-system [6] Dynamic Spectrum Access https://www.sharedspectrum.com/technologies/dynamic-spectrum-access/ [7] Securing the wireless spectrum – ASU News – Arizona State University https://news.asu.edu/20240419-science-and-technology-securing-wireless-spectrum [8] Spectrum WiFi Service and Home Internet https://www.spectrum.com/internet/wifi-service [9] Spectrum Out-of-Home WiFi Map – Get WiFi Access Anywhere https://www.spectrum.com/internet/wifi-access-points [10] Dynamic Spectrum Access in Cognitive Radio Wireless Networks https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/4533959/ [11] Spectrum Internet – Reliable High Speed Internet Provider https://www.spectrum.com/internet [12] Wireless Internet | Spectrum Enterprise https://enterprise.spectrum.com/products/internet/wireless-internet.html [13] Spectrum Sharing: Navigating the Challenges and Opportunities https://www.5gamericas.org/spectrum-sharing-navigating-the-challenges-and-opportunities/ [14] Modems/Routers/Wireless Extenders | Spectrum Support https://www.spectrum.net/support/internet/modems-routers-wireless-adapters [15] Connect to Spectrum Mobile WiFi Access Points https://www.spectrum.net/support/mobile/connect-to-spectrum-wifi-access-points [16] [PDF] spectrum sensing techniques in wireless communication networks https://research.manchester.ac.uk/files/54547046/FULL_TEXT.PDF [17] Which connection type should I select? : r/Spectrum – Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/Spectrum/comments/18kxojg/which_connection_type_should_i_select/ [18] Spectrum Mobile Access Point Question – Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/Spectrum/comments/12b1djc/spectrum_mobile_access_point_question/ [19] Spectrum Advanced WiFi – Manage WiFi & Connected Devices https://www.spectrum.com/internet/wifi-service/spectrum-advanced-wifi [20] What is Spectrum in Wireless Communication? – Syniverse https://www.syniverse.com/blog/connectivity/spectrum-wireless-communication/