Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Unlicensed Spectrum Can Dramatically Reduce ISP Breakeven Points

You'd undoubtedly be correct--or at least in very good company--if you predicted that mobile data access would be the primary way most people without Internet access will use it over the next 10 years. 

But some of us also would argue that other methods will play a significant role, including public-private partnerships, Wi-Fi hotspots, non-profit or fixed broadband access services as well. 

Some of us also would argue that the only way ubiquitous coverage for all potential users, including those with little ability to pay commercial rates, will hinge on creating lower cost alternatives ot mobile or fixed network service.

That is no slam on mobile or fixed ISPs. It simply is a recognition that the cost structures for telcos and mobile service providers might not allow for very low cost access, and reasonable usage buckets, for users with little disposal income. 

For that reason, some of us believe shared spectrum and unlicensed spectrum will be necessary parts of the overall Internet access ecosystem in many regions where consumers are underserved, or not served at all. 

By reducing government licensing and spectrum purchase requirements, at least some ISPs would be encouraged to create sustainable access services that would be absolutely unfeasible if those ISPs had to buy licensed spectrum or comply with the full set of regulations telcos and mobile service providers must obey.




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