Broadband: Europe Needs More than Dsl

Abstract

Efficient broadband technologies such as DSL, fibre, cable modem, powerline communications, UMTS, WLAN or WiMax are powerful locational factors for an economy. Europe in particular should promote broadband communication further to tap into its growth potential. But given the prevailing ownership structures in fixed wire business, the promotion of broadband must not concentrate exclusively on DSL. Rather, its impact should be technology-neutral.

Keywords: Communications, technology, broadband, DSL, cable modem, FTTH, regulation authority, liberalisation, deregulation, convergence

JEL Classification: K2, L96, O14, O33