Solving the Backhaul Bottleneck

Together, ANDREW and Wesco are empowering mobile network operators to scale efficiently and prepare for future expansion.

From streaming music and ordering groceries to video calls with colleges, mobile devices have become an essential part of our daily lives. Given how deeply mobile devices are woven into our routines, it's no surprise that their usage has surged dramatically.

In the U.S. alone, mobile traffic has increased 341 times since the first measurement back in 2010.¹

Mobile data usage surged by 35% in 2023 compared to the previous year. This was followed by another 32% increase in 2024, reaching a record-breaking 132.5 trillion megabytes. This upward trend shows no signs of slowing.

Challenge: Fronthaul Outpacing Backhaul Capacity

As mobile traffic continues to increase, the number of Wesco customers needing solutions to handle the upcoming industry advancements and end-user demand for consistent, reliable connectivity continues to climb. Mobile users in the U.S. depend on their mobile network operator’s (MNO) network to deliver that connectivity wherever they go. To meet these demands, MNOs need to maintain their backhaul without overloading towers with antennas that may limit future growth.

One of Wesco’s leading partners in wireless technology has answered this challenge with the ANDREW® ValuLine® Microwave Antenna solution.²

ANDREW^® ValuLine^® Microwave Antenna Solution

ANDREW’s high-performance, dual-band/dual polarization solution - centralized on the HX6-611 antenna - solves the challenge of backhaul capacity today while preserving space for capacity expansion in the future. One HX6-611 antenna replaces as many as four standard microwave antennas. It’s also an FCC Category A device, making the ValuLine® a more sustainable solution.

As MNOs continue to build out the national network and provide the necessary redundancies for critical links, the ValuLine HX6-611 antenna solves for high-capacity long-haul applications while cutting costs associated with tower leasing, maintenance, energy consumption, and infrastructure requirements.

Wesco and ANDREW’s Commitment

As mobile network traffic continues its exponential climb with no signs of losing momentum, the pressure on MNOs to deliver seamless, high-capacity connectivity is greater than ever. Meeting this demand requires more than just adding antennas; it calls for smarter, more sustainable infrastructure solutions. That’s where Wesco steps in.

As a trusted partner to leading manufacturers like ANDREW, Wesco delivers innovative wireless and fiber solutions that empower MNOs to scale efficiently and future-proof their networks. ANDREW’s ValuLine solution exemplifies this commitment, offering increased backhaul capacity, reduced operational costs, and a streamlined path to growth. With Wesco’s deep industry expertise and ANDREW’s cutting-edge technology, MNOs can confidently build the resilient, high-performance networks that today’s mobile users expect—and tomorrow’s innovations will demand.

¹ CTIA 2024 Industry Survey

² ANDREW ValuLine Microwave Antenna Solution