Abstract
This chapter covers the planning of the Wide Area Network (WAN) and Field Area Networks (FANs) including Neighborhood Area Networks (NANs). For the WAN, optical networks are discussed in detail since many utilities already own or plan to deploy significant fiber infrastructure. Both wireline and wireless networking technologies are considered with special emphasis on their use as FANs. A more detailed treatment is provided for power line communication (PLC) technology, a technology not commonly deployed in carrier (service provider) or most enterprise networks. Similarly, Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technology is described in detail, the wireless technology currently being deployed by commercial wireless service providers worldwide. The benefits and drawbacks of all technologies are summarized in relation to their use in FANs. This chapter ends with a discussion on benefits and drawbacks of utility ownership of one or more of these network components in comparison to the use of NSP data networking services.
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