Resilient multi-path last mile connectivity is essential post C-band

In the previous blog of this series, C-band spectrum reallocation: assessing broadcast distribution options, we explored the distribution paths broadcasters are considering as pressure increases on the remaining upper C-band. Ku and IP-based alternatives, along with the need for last-mile connectivity using fiber, 5G and LEO, were highlighted as viable options, but also as sources of new operational risk.

A common challenge emerges across every option: last-mile connectivity and resilience. As distribution shifts away from C-band satellite, long regarded as the gold standard for reliability thanks to its excellent uptime and resistance to weather, the robustness of last-mile access becomes critical for broadcast-grade distribution. This blog explores that issue further, examining last-mile connectivity and how Ku-band (with IP protection VSF TR-06-4 Part 7), fiber, 5G and LEO can work together to support a resilient distribution network.

The last-mile challenge and the case for multi-path connectivity

Moving away from C-band shifts risk from space to local access networks. C-band satellite distribution is inherently protected from physical disruption and offers strong resistance to weather-related impairments. Alternative distribution paths introduce different failure modes. Ku-band satellite is more susceptible to rain fade, while terrestrial networks are exposed to risks such as fiber cuts, congestion and localized outages. For services requiring extremely high availability, such as 99.999% uptime, single-path distribution outside of C-band is therefore not viable. For always-on linear services, resilience must be engineered rather than assumed, with broadcast-grade availability achieved through diversity rather than bandwidth alone.

Multi-path connectivity addresses this challenge by providing diverse connectivity from the core distribution network to the content taker, eliminating single points of failure. With C-band, this level of architectural complexity was unnecessary due to its deterministic performance. No single alternative replicates those characteristics on its own. Ku-band introduces weather-related vulnerabilities, while terrestrial IP introduces physical and congestion-related risks. By combining technologies, multi-path connectivity delivers a level of resilience that no single option can achieve alone.

The building blocks of multi-path IP terrestrial distribution

No single access technology can meet broadcast requirements on its own. Multi-path IP works by combining networks with different physical and operational characteristics, reducing correlated failures, and improving overall availability.

Fiber. Capacity and consistency, with inherent constraints

Fiber delivers high throughput and stable performance for IP distribution and is often used as a primary path where available. However, physical routes are frequently shared, limiting true path diversity. Localised fiber cuts can result in extended outages that are unacceptable for always-on services. As a result, fiber works best when complemented by alternative access technologies to meet broadcast availability targets.

5G Fixed Wireless Access. Rapid deployment and terrestrial diversity

The rollout of 5G continues to accelerate and benefits from increased mid-band spectrum availability, improving Fixed Wireless Access capacity and speeds. Compared to new fiber builds, 5G is significantly faster to deploy and well suited to urban and suburban environments.

5G connectivity can be delivered using Sub-6 GHz or mmWave spectrum, supporting substantial traffic volumes with low latency. While early 5G deployments relied on non-standalone architectures anchored to 4G cores, 5G Standalone introduces a fully 5G end-to-end architecture, covering both the core network and the radio access network. This enables lower latency, typically under 10 ms, as well as advanced capabilities such as network slicing, which allows virtual networks to be optimized for applications like live video delivery.

As an alternative last-mile path largely independent of wired infrastructure, 5G can provide business-grade capacity and low latency for both primary and secondary routing. Historically, performance variability positioned 5G primarily as a resilience layer. With the introduction of 5G Standalone capabilities, its role can extend beyond backup, strengthening both resilience and, in some scenarios, primary connectivity.

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite. Non-terrestrial reach and geographic diversity

LEO satellite networks are expanding rapidly, offering extensive coverage across urban, rural and hard-to-serve locations with gigabit-class speeds. They provide a viable alternative last-mile connection with significantly lower latency than traditional GEO satellites. One-way delays under 20 ms and typical round-trip times around 40 ms make LEO suitable for live content and IP-based packet protection.

LEO achieves greater link margins than GEO within the same spectrum band due to reduced path loss and improved elevation angles. While satellite handovers remain a consideration, LEO is most effective when used to add a non-terrestrial layer of diversity. As next-generation satellites and enterprise-grade commercial models mature, LEO is increasingly viable as a primary option in hard-to-serve locations.

Multi-path IP for Broadcast-Grade Reliability

Clearing additional upper C-band spectrum is only viable if broadcasters can maintain service availability equivalent to C-band. Synamedia’s position is that achieving 99.999% availability requires multi-path last-mile connectivity rather than reliance on any single access network.

Multi-path IP enables broadcasters to align resilience with service scale. Smaller channel portfolios can move more quickly toward IP-only models, while large, always-on channel portfolios require protected and diverse paths. By combining fiber, GEO Ku, 5G and LEO, broadcasters create independent failure domains and reduce correlated outages. For example Ku-band with IP protection using VSF TR-06-4 Part 7 over different last mile protection can protect against rain fade.

This approach supports phased, service-by-service migration rather than a one-size-fits-all architecture. Multi-path IP terrestrial distribution provides a deployable, technology-neutral transition path aligned with real operational constraints. This is why Synamedia positions multi-path IP as a foundation for post-C-band distribution, balancing resilience, scalability and practicality as spectrum decisions evolve.

At Synamedia, we work with broadcasters to design distribution strategies that match technical, operational and commercial realities. Whether the path forward involves terrestrial IP, hybrid Ku with IP protection, or a combination of both, we help customers stay ahead of change without compromising reach, resilience or return on investment.

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