Abstract

Wireless networks allow developing countries to leapfrog over the traditional telecommunications infrastructure found in more industrialized parts of the world. Although fiber optics offers greater bandwidth, and satellite systems are appropriate for unidirectional broadcast services, from a cost perspective they cannot compete with land-based wireless networks. Both fiber optic and satellite systems require large initial capital investments and considerable expertise for installation and operation. The development of the IEEE 802 .11 standard, commonly known as Wi-Fi, facilitated a considerable reduction in the cost of wireless data transmission for short distances. Increasingly, the developing world is using devices based on this technology for long distance communications as well. At the International Centre for Theoretical Physics we are using wireless technologies to facilitate the development of academic networks in emerging economies. In addition to long wireless links, we research the use of white spaces for rural communication. I will present our experience in research, training, and deployment in Africa, Latin America and the Pacific.