Paving the Way for a Connected World: The Mission of the World Broadband Association
Together, we foster collaboration among global stakeholders, advocating for policies that promote innovation, investment, and equitable digital inclusion. By working together, WBBA members can help bridge the digital divide, eliminating gaps in connectivity to create a brighter future for all.
Key Trends Shaping the Industry
- Sustainability: There's a strong emphasis on creating sustainable broadband solutions that minimize environmental impact.
- Economic Fairness: Ensuring equitable access to broadband services is critical for closing the digital divide.
- Technological Advancements: The transition from hundred-megabit broadband to gigabit and even ten-gigabit broadband is underway, varying by region.
The Growing Importance of Fixed Broadband
One of the most fascinating trends in the global broadband industry is the increasing importance of fixed broadband. Over the past two decades, the focus has largely been on mobile connectivity. Now, there is a growing recognition of the need for a robust fiber backbone in access networks, backbone networks, and data centers. This shift is essential for supporting the demands of our digital future.
The Future of Broadband: Extreme Bandwidth and Unmatched Reliability
The rise of activities within the so-called metaverse will ultimately demand extreme bandwidth with some home broadband connections reaching as high as 50 Gbps by 2030. However, reliability may be even more crucial than speed for certain applications. For instance, certain services that seem science fiction today such as remote robotic surgery, may become feasible over the coming decade. I such a scenario, robotic surgery conducted across thousands of miles cannot afford any network downtime. Ensuring consistent and reliable broadband is paramount in such high-stakes scenarios.
Fiber Optics: The Gold Standard for Broadband
While there is significant awareness about 5G and fixed wireless access, fiber optics remains the premium technology for broadband. It offers ultra-high bandwidth, the best sustainability credentials, the lowest energy consumption, the fewest faults, and requires minimal maintenance. Fiber optics are durable and future-proof, making them the technology of choice for long-term broadband solutions. Although DSL, cable, and satellite technologies have their roles, much of the global focus is clearly on fiber optics.
Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities
Regulatory challenges often stem from basic issues such as obtaining rights of way for laying fiber and securing wayleave permissions. These hurdles can delay the launch of broadband services. Overcoming these planning challenges is crucial for accelerating broadband rollout. Additionally, regulations related to sustainability, energy efficiency, and spectrum management present significant challenges. However, we are encouraged by the willingness of regulators worldwide to remove barriers to broadband investment and expedite the deployment of fixed fiber broadband.
At the World Broadband Association, we are committed to addressing these challenges and promoting policies that support the widespread adoption of high-speed, reliable, and sustainable broadband. By doing so, we aim to create a connected world that drives progress and prosperity for all.