Navigating in-building connectivity options

12 December 2025

Stephen Patrick, CEO/founder, CableFree: Wireless Excellence

With the rollout of 5G accelerating across the country, IT teams face the challenge of ensuring seamless indoor coverage where outdoor signals often falter due to building materials like concrete and glass. Poor connectivity can lead to productivity losses, frustrated employees, and missed opportunities in sectors like healthcare, retail, and finance.

Understanding the options

UK IT teams have several pathways to enhance indoor wireless coverage, but the choice depends on factors like building size, user density, budget, and future-proofing needs.

  1. Wi-Fi networks: Often the first line of defense, Wi-Fi leverages existing internet connections to provide indoor access. It’s cost-effective for data-heavy applications and easy to deploy using access points. However, Wi-Fi struggles with voice calls, high latency in crowded environments, and security vulnerabilities. In the UK, Wi-Fi 6 and upcoming Wi-Fi 7 offer improvements in speed and efficiency, but they don’t inherently support cellular services like 4G or 5G handover.
  2. Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS): DAS amplifies outdoor cellular signals through a network of antennas distributed throughout a building. Active DAS uses fibre optics for high-capacity distribution, while passive DAS relies on coaxial cables. Ideal for large venues like stadiums or hospitals, DAS supports multiple carriers (neutral host capability) and integrates well with 5G. However, it’s expensive to install — often 75% more than alternatives — and requires carrier approvals, which can delay rollout in the UK. For buildings needing robust 5G coverage, 5G DAS is crucial, as it addresses signal penetration issues in urban areas.
  3. Small cells: These compact base stations extend 4G and 5G networks indoors, acting as mini cell towers. Unlike DAS, small cells can be carrier-specific or multi-operator, offering targeted capacity boosts. They’re scalable, easier to deploy in smaller spaces, and support private networks, which are gaining traction in the UK for industries like manufacturing. Small cells are seen as the future of in-building connectivity due to their flexibility and lower costs compared to DAS.

Other options include off-air repeaters, which boost external signals without backhaul, and neutral host networks that allow shared infrastructure among operators. IT teams should assess building-specific needs: for example, Wi-Fi suits low-density offices, while DAS or small cells are better for high-traffic environments.

What to look for in a small cell

As 5G adoption surges, small cells emerge as a versatile choice for UK IT teams. Here’s what to prioritise:

  • Coverage and capacity: Ensure the solution delivers uniform signal strength across floors and zones. Look for multi-band support (e.g., sub-6 GHz for 5G) to handle varying user loads. Advanced features like beamforming and MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) enhance performance in dense areas.
  • Scalability and flexibility: Opt for modular designs that allow easy expansion as needs grow. Software-defined radios (SDRs) enable over-the-air updates, reducing hardware swaps. For UK compliance, confirm adherence to Ofcom’s spectrum rules and ETSI standards.
  • Integration and deployment: Seamless integration with core networks (EPC for 4G, 5GC for 5G) is vital. Plug-and-play options minimise downtime, while backhaul compatibility (e.g., fibre or microwave) ensures reliable connectivity. Consider power efficiency to align with UK’s net-zero goals.
  • Security and management: Features like encryption, firewalls, and remote monitoring protect against threats. Analytics tools for traffic optimisation add value.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Balance upfront costs with long-term savings. Small cells often cost less than DAS, with ROI through improved productivity.

Selecting a vendor

Choosing a vendor is as critical as the technology itself. UK IT teams should evaluate:

  • Reputation and track record: Seek vendors with proven UK installations.
  • Support and services: Prioritise 24/7 technical support, training, and maintenance. Vendors offering end-to-end solutions — from planning to optimisation — reduce complexity.
  • Compliance and innovation: Ensure alignment with UK regulations, including data protection (GDPR) and environmental standards. Look for R&D investment in 6G readiness.
  • Case studies and partnerships: Review testimonials and operator collaborations. Cost transparency, including TCO (Total Cost of Ownership), helps in budgeting.
  • Sustainability: With the UK’s green agenda, choose vendors using energy-efficient tech.

By weighing these, IT teams can avoid vendor lock-in and ensure long-term viability.

Conclusion

For UK IT teams, selecting in-building connectivity involves balancing immediate needs with future demands. While Wi-Fi and DAS remain viable, small cells offer a forward-looking path for 4G and 5G. By focusing on coverage, scalability, and vendor reliability, teams can foster connected environments that drive innovation. As 5G evolves, proactive evaluation will keep businesses competitive in a wireless world.