In 2009 Shetland Islands Council started a 3 year pilot project to establish the viability of using wireless technology to deliver better broadband to Shetland communities. The two areas selected for the project were Vidlin and Fetlar. Design and installation for both projects was done by Shetland Broadband. Since the completion of the trial period the project has been allowed to continue for an extended period.

Homes and businesses in Vidlin and Fetlar had the opportunity to take part in the project and get 10Mbps broadband. The current maximum speed in both areas supplied from the BT exchanges is 0.5Mbps.

Wireless broadband uses antennas and masts to supply broadband rather than using phone lines. The Council uses the same type of network to supply schools, care homes and ferry terminals with broadband connections.