Purpose-This paper aims to assess the role that different wireless solutions could have in the universalisation of access to telecommunication services in emerging countries. Design/methodology/approach-The paper presents a techno-economic model aimed at estimating the cost of deploying and maintaining a wireless network (a 3G network and a CDMA 450 network) capable of providing broadband access. The calculations have been carried out for Mexico, since its socio-demographic disparities represent well the general scenarios of developing economies. Findings-Wireless technologies are the safest commitment to move forward to universal access in developing countries. The results of this study suggest that provision of broadband in moderately populated zones (suburban and semirural areas) through the deployment of a wireless network could be profitable for those operators willing to invest. Alternatively, these technologies would also be the most efficient option for those governments, which decide to finance the deployment of infrastructures in those regions, which at least in the short term, will not be served by the market. Originality/value-The paper stimulates the discussion about the role wireless solutions could have in achieving service universalisation in emerging countries. The results may be useful, especially for policy makers, when designing strategies to extend a wireless broadband network access.