Multi-functional, software configurable device for fixed wireless networks

Abstract

Technologies directed to a wireless network device with a single hardware architecture that supports multiple devices roles through software configuration are described. One wireless network device includes a housing with an RF connector and a circuit board with a first radio coupled to an internal antenna and a second radio coupled to an external antenna via the RF connector. The second antenna is mounted on an exterior surface of the building and coupled to the RF connector via an RF cable. The wireless network device establishes a first wireless link between the first radio and a radio of a second device via the first antenna and a second wireless link between the second radio and a radio of a third device via the second antenna. The second device can be a second wireless network device that is programmed to operate as a gateway, the gateway being mounted outside of the building. The third device is located inside the building can be either a customer premises equipment (CPE) station or a wireless endpoint device. Each of the wireless network device, the second wireless network device, and the CPE station include identical hardware.