UK: OFCOM Increases Spectrum Availability for BFWA Channels in 5.8 GHz Band

OFCOM has been doing some updates on the 5.8 GHz. Back in July they opened the 5725 – 5850 MHz for Wi-Fi use.

Asides from WiFi, some portions of that band are used by Fixed Satellite Services, Broadband Fixed Wireless Access, Road tolling systems. Today’s OFCOM decision increases the spectrum available for Broadband fixed wireless access (BFWA), getting rid of the restriction they previously imposed at 5795-5815 MHz to protect road tolling systems. The use of such frequencies is still subject to light licensing scheme.

Decision was taken after public consultation and after evaluating the actual scenario of spectrum use. Stakeholders supported OFCOM’s proposal to remove the road tolling notch but asked Ofcom to consider extending Wi-Fi operations in the 5.8 GHz band consistent with the proposal for BFWA.