El CPE (Customer Local Team) is a telecommunications term used both indoors and outdoors to originate, route or terminate a communication. The device can provide a combination of services including data, voice, video and a host of multimedia applications. 

Un WISP (Wireless Internet Service Provider) is an Internet service provider with a network based on wireless connections.

CPE (Customer Premises Equipment)

Meaning: CPE refers to telecommunications equipment and other related devices that are installed at customer premises, both in residential and business environments.

This equipment may include routers, modems, switches, and VoIP devices, among others, and is essential for connecting the customer to telecommunications or Internet services.

Use in the Network Context: In the context of networking, especially in wireless and broadband network configurations, a CPE device is the endpoint of the service provider's network that connects directly to the customer's internal network.

For example, in a point-to-multipoint wireless network configuration, the CPE would be the device on the client side that connects to the wireless Internet service provider (WISP) network.

WISP (Wireless Internet Service Provider)

Meaning: WISP refers to an Internet service provider that uses wireless solutions to deliver Internet connectivity to its customers. Unlike traditional Internet service providers that use copper, fiber optic, or coaxial cables, WISPs rely on wireless technology, such as Wi-Fi, LTE, 5G, and other radio technologies for data transmission.

Use in the Network Context: WISPs are especially useful in rural or remote areas where implementing wired infrastructure is impractical or too expensive. They use a series of wireless base stations to create a coverage network that allows end users to connect to the Internet.

In these configurations, the CPE equipment plays a crucial role in serving as the final access point for clients connecting to the WISP network.

Relationship between CPE and WISP

The relationship between CPE and WISP is direct: the WISP provides Internet service over a wireless infrastructure, and the CPE is the equipment needed on the client side to receive that service.

For effective operation of the Internet connection, the WISP must ensure that the CPE is compatible and properly configured to communicate with its network.

This configuration may involve precise alignment of wireless antennas, specific software configuration, and implementation of appropriate security measures.