NTC Ends its WiMAX Internet Service, Migrates Users to 4G LTE

Nepal Telecom (NTC) has shut down its WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) broadband service after migrating users to 4G. WiMax is one of the large-scale wireless internet technologies in Nepal, that had been provided by the government-backed operator. The company is now mulling over whether to hand over the WiMAX spectrum 2300 MHz to NTA.

Before ending the wireless mobile internet service, the telco migrated its existing WiMAX users to 4G service with a 4G router. Must read: Namaste WiFi Packages with Router and 4G SIM

The end of the wireless internet service came with the expansion of FTTH service and 4G network. Ntc has been very active in extending its fiber internet and 4G services in various parts of the country. Likewise, it has been upgrading the ADSL service to a fiber system which has reduced the usage of older technologies to a minimum. Even before phasing out WiMAX, the company already stopped all of its expansion plans and it was also hindered by the interference from Jio’s 4G network. Ntc then migrated the active WiMAX customers to other broadband connections like 4G broadband.

Previously, the telco revealed in its yearly program announcements that it would discontinue its two obsolete services- CDMA and WiMAX. As per the plan, the former could be switched off during the current fiscal year 2079/80 while WiMAX has already been cast out, reportedly in early, this FY.

Don’t miss: Nepal Telecom Plans to Shut down CDMA service

Nepal Telecom Found WiMAX Increasingly ‘Irrelevant’

NTC began WiMAX service in 2069 Kartik to establish connections in rural areas of Nepal. The company operated the wireless broadband service in a 30 MHz frequency of 2300 MHz spectrum band. But the service was limited to a select few areas in the hilly region.

WiMAX Spectrum to use for 4G/5G?

After the shutdown of the WiMax service, we could have expected the telco to use the WiMAX spectrum for 4G/5G Cellular technologies, with tech neutrality. Nepal has not yet decided on the 5G spectrum band. However, the National Spectrum strategy (in its draft form, at least known to us) has included 2300 MHz and 2600 MHz as the primary band for 5G. Whereas the TDD band was not included in the NTA’s roadmap for 5G development, and experts opine 2300MHz to be unsuitable for 5G due to lesser bandwidth availability and device ecosystem. So, the future of this band remains in question in Nepal.

Check out: 5G in Nepal | Availability, Spectrum and Compatible devices >>

Did you ever use NTC’s WiMAX broadband service? If yes, do share if its end had any negative impact on your user experience in the comments section below.