India's first fully domestic, SIM-less 5G FWA service, which offers fiber-like speeds via 5G radio, was soft-launched in Hyderabad by BSNL

What Is It?

Quantum 5G FWA is a BSNL Fixed Wireless Access solution providing high-speed internet without physical fiber, utilizing 5G radio waves and a SIM-less design.

How Does It Function?

The Direct-to-Device (D2D) platform eliminates the requirement for physical SIM cards—devices automatically connect via 5G networks.

Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) features integrated authentication, allowing immediate and effortless internet access.

Functions solely on a native technology stack (core network, radio access network – RAN, and CPE) created by Indian suppliers as part of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Complete independence from foreign elements—entirely managed and executed within Indian digital frameworks.

Main Characteristics:

SIM-free architecture: A first in India—eliminates the need for a physical SIM for 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA).

India-developed technology framework: Constructed and assembled by Indian engineers—core network, RAN, and devices entirely produced locally.

Rapid performance: Reaches download speeds of up to 980 Mbps and upload speeds of 140 Mbps, with latency under 10 milliseconds—facilitates bandwidth-intensive applications.

Quick and simple installation: Plug-and-play CPE unit—requires no digging or fiber cable installation; serves more than 85% of households in Hyderabad.

Tailored for contemporary requirements: Perfect for Ultra-HD video streaming, cloud gaming, remote work, and smart home gadgets.

Importance:

Positions BSNL as India’s initial telecom provider delivering native, SIM-free 5G Fixed Wireless Access.

Showcases India's strengths in Atmanirbhar Bharat for creating and implementing advanced telecom infrastructure.

Provides cost-effective gigabit-speed internet access for urban areas and underprivileged/rural communities, closing the digital gap.

Plan and Future Directions:

Pilot locations: Bengaluru, Pondicherry, Visakhapatnam, Pune, Gwalior, Chandigarh by September 2025.