Backhaul in networking is the infrastructure that serves to connect a network core to smaller local networks. It ensures efficient data flow between systems. Backhaul has several uses, such as allowing users to access the internet or providing data access to mobile networks.
What is Backhaul in Networking?
The term network backhaul often appears when discussing wireless networks. A backhaul makes data communications and internet connectivity faster. Users would not have internet connectivity without backhaul. The connection that moves from the Internet backbone to an exchange network where it can pass to individual end users is the backhaul.Â
The backhaul of a telecommunications network with a hierarchical topology consists of all the connections that link the core networks to the subnetworks. Therefore, the term backhaul in both a commercial and technical setting indicates the segment of the network responsible for communicating with the Internet. This is acquired by purchasing access to a core network access site, such as an internet exchange point.Â
Middle-mile networks are sometimes between the local network and the main core. This could be a wide area network link. The internet service provider is connected to this link to pick up the core network access and transmit it to the end user.
Although they are used in various capacities, most people are most familiar with mobile network backhauls. These transmit data between their base stations and the mobile devices using them. A mobile backhaul example is when a cell tower connects to the network infrastructure. These kinds of links are achieved with fiber-based or wireless point-to-point backhauls.
As capacity and latency requirements rise with 5G networks, alternative technologies are being phased out. Providers must be ready to meet the changing demands of consumers with current technology and advanced infrastructure components.
What Does the Backhaul Look Like?
The Internet and other data networks are designed to transmit information from one end to another. However, this function is not as straightforward as it may seem. It requires numerous segments of a network to complete, including:
- Access points
- Primary and secondary networks
- Backhauls
In this case, the backhaul is the link between the access point and the primary network. Local networks consist of collections of mobile devices that can communicate with a cell tower. The backhaul that links the tower to the provider’s network is the starting point for the connection that exists at that subnetwork.
Backhaul connections include copper-based, fiber-based, or wireless technology. Wireless technology most often consists of microwave technology, but it can also include mesh network topologies or edge network devices. Backhauls may also use wireless channels to transfer data from the cell tower to the microwave or fiber connections.
What Are the Key Types of Backhaul?
There are several key types of backhaul. True network backhauls are wired. They use wired lines and cables to transmit data between backbones and subnetworks.
Wired Backhaul
The majority of backhauls occur over wired lines as they are the most secure. Fiber-based connections are the most common today, but some lines still rely on copper-based backhauls. When it comes to transmitting voice, video, and large data quantities, fiber cabling is preferable because it has increased speed, latency, and capacity. The three types of wired backhauls include:
- Copper-based
- Dark-fiber-based
- Ethernet-based
Dark fiber is a fiber optic network that does not have dedicated data transmission equipment hooked to it. It is highly customizable and secure. Dark fiber offers low-latency connections and a high level of scalability.
Wireless Backhaul
The transmission of voice, video, and mid-sized data quantities can also be done through wireless network connections. This creates wireless network backhauls. While they are generally considered secure, wireless networks have inherent weaknesses that make them vulnerable.
Public wi-fi is an excellent example of wireless backhaul. Cities or large corporations may choose to create a wi-fi net around a designated area using wireless backhauls. Individuals can then use this service without having a dedicated connection.
Satellite Backhaul
Satellite backhauls are employed in very rural areas or in emergency situations for temporary use. This was once a niche solution, but it is growing more widespread. Satellite backhauls are cost-effective compared to some other technology. Â
With these systems, backhaul uses both existing and developing markets for providing functionality. This technology can hit download speeds of 150 Mbps and upload speeds of 10 Mbps. However, satellite backhauls may have latency issues because of the time required for the signal to make a complete trip to the satellite and back.
Mesh Wi-Fi Network Backhaul
Mesh wi-fi is possible thanks to the use of network backhaul. The internet connection goes directly into the mesh router, which transmits the signal to satellites. These satellite routers can go inside a customer’s home to provide them service inside or outside of their home.
Wi-fi backhaul can also be an alternative communication method for people outside of their homes. In other words, when they have to leave their service area for a period of time, they can still receive service.
Instead of using a connection to a cell tower, the wired ethernet backhaul from the consumer’s main access point to their satellite device creates their wi-fi backhaul. Aside from being transport nodes, these access points also create cell connections at the very edge of a provider’s network.
Wi-fi network backhaul makes it possible for providers to enhance their network coverage and capacity in a financially competitive way. It is a great option for providers in locations where dark fiber-based or wireless-based backhaul is not available or cost-effective.Â
Learn More About What Backhaul in Networking Is and How To Enhance Yours
Backhaul is an essential networking component that should be invisible to an end user. Network backhauls shape internet experiences, particularly when working on mobile devices and networks. As more IT departments begin to rely on 5G, mobile connectivity is more important than ever. This makes it essential for organizations to get the correct gear to enhance their backhaul.
Our team at Equal Optics can help you choose the right equipment for a complete backhaul. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
