Line-of-Sight IP Networks
Explore the evolution and modern usage of Line-of-Sight (LoS) networks in telecommunications and IT. From early military systems in the 1940s to the extensive use of microwave and directional WiFi tailored for both campus connectivity and metropolitan applications, this overview examines key LoS topologies, systems, and planning considerations. Delve into security implications, environmental factors impacting signal reliability, and strategic ways to secure tower and roof rights for optimal LoS efficiency. Gain insights into leveraging LoS for temporary or backup WAN connectivity.
Line-of-Sight IP Networks
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Presentation Transcript
Line-of-Sight IP Networks Johnathan Poarch Senior Information Tech Specialist
Line-of-Sight (LoS) History • Early LoS systems developed by US military in the 1940s. • Extensive TeleCom use in 1950s and 1960s for LD and TV (AT&T Long Lines System) • Modern use by TV relay and backbone carriers for cellular systems
Use of LoS in IT • Intra-campus IP/VoIP/CCTV (fiber replacement) • Site-to-Site connectivity • Temporary or backup connectivity to WAN/Internet
Typical LoS Topologies • Point-to-Point • Point-to-Multipoint • Mesh
LoS Planning Considerations • Affected greatly by environmental constraints, including rain fade • Very limited penetration capabilities through obstacles such as hills, buildings and trees • Sensitive to high pollen count • Signals can be degraded during Solar events
Common Types of LoS Systems • Microwave • Directional (long range) WiFi • Laser • Leased systems
Microwave LoS • Most common for short range data “back hauls” • Licensed Bands – Higher frequency and power • Unlicensed Bands – Lower initial cost; plug and play (solutions start under $5,000)
Directional WiFI • High signal noise in 2.4GHz band • Commercial 802.11 radios can be used with directional antennas • Amplifiers can also be used to extend range
Laser LoS • Secure data transmission • Up to 1Gbps throughput • 200m to 5km range • Solutions start under $10,000
Leased Systems • More common in metropolitan areas • Monthly service fee with little/no customer intervention • Typically much larger (shared) bandwidth available • Can become saturated during large scale outages that impacts multiple customers
Discussion Topics • Security of LoS solutions • Protection of LoS systems • Tower/roof rights • Use of relaying
Security of LoS solutions • Most LoS is considered “private network” and difficult to remotely compromise • Very susceptible to physical compromise • Beware of shared/co-used transmission sites (roof tops, shared towers, ect)
Protection of LoS Systems • Environmental and weather conditions can have heavy impact on reliability • Monitoring systems are critical
Tower and Roof Rights • Any tower/roof rights should be secured in writing • Seaming LoS obstacles may be best transmission sites • Backup connectivity can often be shared among tenants in order to secure rights and lower cost
LoS Relaying • LoS relaying is often used to extend range and circumvent obstacles • Increased points of failure