The Broadband Revolution

Broadband refers to high-speed transmission of huge amount of data in electronic form. The carriers can be cables, fiber optics or wireless using advanced cable technology, radio frequency transmissions or satellite systems respectively each having pros and cons. Broadband availability has the potential to continue to revolutionize industries, change organizations, enhance society and deliver environmental benefits. This book explores: what does having broadband actually mean to people, business, society and economy? However, there are many issues that can hinder achievement of the dream of ubiquitous broadband e.g., (a) tussle between the Government and private players on ‘open access’, ‘network neutrality’ etc., (b) security and privacy apart from issues like low computer penetration, illiteracy and so on. The book provides a comprehensive account of the following; Technological updates in the field of broadband carriers; Hybrid models for reaching out remote and difficult terrains; Implementation bottlenecks and critical success factors; Need for suitable policies and regulations that encourage evolution and innovation; Security and privacy issues and safeguards; Innovative use of broadband in practice. This has been supplemented by a few country experiences in terms of implementation, public-private partnership, change in customer behavior, rural e-learning etc.