EOLO, Italy’s leading Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) provider, has announced plans to launch a 1Gbps broadband service in 2025, marking a significant step toward bridging the country’s digital divide. The company has selected Thales to support this expansion with secure eSIM technology, ensuring faster and more seamless connectivity.
Expanding High-Speed Internet Across Italy
The European Union has set a target for all citizens to have access to 1Gbps broadband by 2030. Achieving this goal requires advanced solutions like FWA, which provides high-speed internet to areas where traditional fibre or copper networks are unavailable. FWA plays a crucial role in connecting small towns and rural regions, promoting economic growth and reducing digital inequality.
EOLO currently serves over 700,000 households, offering download speeds of up to 300Mbps through its existing FWA network. With the upcoming 1Gbps service, the company will integrate 5G and millimetre wave (mmWave) technology, deploying new 5G antennas and thousands of eSIM-enabled devices at customer locations.
Guido Garrone, CEO of EOLO, emphasised the significance of this initiative:
“The infrastructure we are building will complement fibre coverage across Italy. With connectivity reaching 1Gbps, we will meet the ambitious targets of both European and Italian agendas, helping citizens and businesses overcome the digital divide and digital speed divide.”
Thales’ Role in Secure Connectivity
Thales will contribute to this expansion with its eSIM Management platform, Thales On-Demand Subscription Manager (OSM). This system enables EOLO’s 5G routers to be pre-configured with mobile subscriptions, allowing for instant activation when powered on. By streamlining installation and ensuring seamless connectivity, this technology will enhance the customer experience.
Eva Rudin, VP Mobile Connectivity Solutions at Thales, highlighted the importance of secure connectivity in digital transformation:
“Reliable, secure connectivity is essential for digital transformation. By supporting EOLO with our advanced eSIM technology, we are enabling faster broadband deployment and helping to bridge the digital divide across Europe.”
Advancing Italy’s Digital Future
EOLO’s new service will play a critical role in expanding digital access across Italy, particularly in underserved areas. By combining innovative FWA technology with Thales’ secure connectivity solutions, the partnership aims to provide a robust and high-speed internet service that meets the demands of modern digital life.
The 1Gbps service is set to launch in 2025, bringing Italy closer to the EU’s broadband goals and ensuring that more people can benefit from high-speed, reliable internet access.
