Meaning & use
fixed networks
Last updated
Meaning
nounpluraltechnical
Telecommunication systems that use physical cables or wires to connect users, as opposed to mobile or wireless networks.
Grammar: Always used in the plural; the singular 'fixed network' refers to one such system.
Patterns
- fixed networks provide something
- connect to fixed networks
- operate fixed networks
Many rural areas still rely on fixed networks for internet access.
The company is investing in fixed networks to improve broadband speed.
Fixed networks are generally more stable than wireless connections.
Word forms
| singular | fixed network |
|---|
Common combinations
- fixed network operator
- The fixed network operator announced a new fiber-optic rollout.
- fixed network infrastructure
- Governments are funding fixed network infrastructure in remote regions.
- fixed-line network
- A fixed-line network can offer higher speeds than mobile data.
Synonyms and how they differ
- wired networks
- Similar meaning, but 'wired' emphasizes the physical cables, while 'fixed' contrasts with mobile.
- landline networks
- Often refers specifically to telephone systems, not general data networks.
Opposites
Word family
- fixed-line adjective
- Relating to a phone or internet connection that uses cables.
Commonly confused: fixed networks or mobile networks?
fixed networks vs mobile networks
These use radio signals for devices on the move, while fixed networks require a physical connection.
Practice
Which of the following is an example of a fixed network?
Choose one answer.
A fiber-optic broadband connection uses cables, so it is a fixed network. The other options are wireless or mobile, not fixed.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “fixed networks”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.