Dish Network is currently waiting for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC (News - Alert)) to sign a waiver that will permit the company to use its wireless spectrum to build its own high-speed Internet service. Dish’s spectrum is very valuable at this time, but recent events involving companies such as LightSquared (News - Alert) and AT&T have demonstrated that the FCC’s decision will ultimately be the most crucial factor in determining Dish Network’s fate.

Dish Network has a wealth of spectrum, so the FCC’s decision will significantly affect the wireless industry. The network’s sizeable spectrum is a result of buying out DBSD North America and TerreStar (News - Alert) Networks for $2.8 billion last year, adding the satellite spectrum of both companies to its existing portion.

Picture courtesy of Creative Cow

Just last week, LightSquared, another company that aspired to use its satellite spectrum in developing its own 4G network, was shot down by the FCC, eliminating Dish’s only competitor. The reason the FCC suspended LightSquared’s waiver indefinitely is because their project proposal contained flaws. According to the National Telecommunications and InformationAdministration, the interference with GPS and other devices was unavoidable. However, it is not believed that Dish is in fear of facing similar obstacles.

Although Dish Network prefers to use their spectrum to build their own cellular wireless network over other endeavors, there are options available to them if the FCC turns them down. The outcome that experts predict is the most likely to occur in the event that Dish does not get the nod from the FCC, is that there will be a partnership with AT&T. Randall Spectrum (News - Alert), CEO of AT&T tells the Wall Street Journal.

"To meet customer demand, we have to continue our push to add spectrum in the open market."

AT&T was also recently shot down by the FCC when the company attempted to buy out T-Mobile. (T-Mobile is now another option for Dish.) And although AT&T (News - Alert) has its eye on other companies, Dish is probably the most likely to be the best candidate that AT&T sees fit for pursuing spectrum.