Milton Keynes WiMAX Network

Executive Summary

The Council took the decision to implement a WiMAX wireless network due to the legacy of poor connectivity in the district due to extensive aluminium wiring used in the 1970s. WiMAX was chosen because it was relatively inexpensive and simple to install.

Project Detail

The Milton Keynes WiMAX network has been developed as a partnership between Milton Keynes Council, through its digital agency, ConnectMK, and Freedom4 Ltd. Freedom 4 was chosen as technology partner through an open, competitive tender.

The Council took the decision to implement a wireless network due to the legacy of poor connectivity in the district caused by the installation of aluminium wiring during the building of the New Town in the 1970s.

WiMAX was chosen as the preferred technology because it was relatively inexpensive to install and requires no digging of trenches, disruption of traffic flows or works to the home.

The WiMAX technology is flexible and capable of following the user when they move. It offers a low cost entry point to internet connectivity as there is no line rental involved, and is also suitable for people with poor credit histories and who are reluctant to sign contracts, as it is available on a “pay as you go” basis.

The network offers faster upload speeds than most standard internet packages, and is capable of being upgraded to faster speeds in the future. Future upgrades will also see the network being available for use on the move via mobile devices as well as from fixed points.

Product website: http://www.connectmk.com/

Approach taken

Resources and skills used