Middle East operators committed to WiMAX deployment over 2009

According to Green Packet Networks (GPN), one of the region's most comprehensive WiMAX solutions provider and consultancy firm, a majority of operators at Gitex reported that WiMAX would form the base of their 4G networks, and would be the main channel for providing customers with data services.

Director of Green Packet Networks, Nik Ismail said:

"WiMAX will provide operators with significant revenue opportunities, particularly for data based services and in areas where broadband lines have yet to be installed."

He added, "The overall sentiment towards WiMAX is that it will solve a great deal of today's connectivity challenges, especially with the exorbitant costs of laying down fibre cables in both metropolitan areas as well as the countryside. We've sat down with over a dozen operators this week, and they've all agreed that no other technologies come close to WiMAX as a viable option."

Adding to WiMAX' potential is Intel's launch of WiMAX-enabled laptops slated to be in early 2009.

Operators will also appreciate that WiMAX presents huge potential to boost revenues. With data services making up less than ten percent of most operators' profits today, this IP-based technology will expand data services considerably helping operator realize higher average revenue per user (ARPU). According to Ismail, GPN is actively engaging with operators on the technology, and sharing their learning and experience on how to best provide services and maximize commercial success.

GPN had a strong showing at the recent Gitex/Gulfcomms event, as they solicited keen interest in its comprehensive range of WiMAX Customer Premise Equipment (CPE) and intelligent software connection management solutions, including its Intouch Connection Manager. The Intouch Connection Manager was a key draw, as it resolves the constant challenge of network congestion for telecommunication and internet service providers by offloading bandwidth intensive networks for example from 3G to the next available network, say WiFi, thus creating a balance in bandwidth utilization.

Ismail believes that the enthusiastic response at Gitex/Gulfcomms points to operators' excitement and strong interest in developing WiMAX networks.

"This will feed the region's appetite for fast, reliable, and affordable WiMAX services. WiMAX holds great potential and value, and operators need to understand how to best unlock that value. They can benefit from our tried and tested experience having launched the first WiMAX commercial service in Asia Pacific, and amongst the forerunners in the world," Ismail concluded.