Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2009

Abstract

In this paper, we propose and describe a new way to encourage broadband deployment. Most proposals have focused on deployment as a problem for firms and for government. Firms that provide broadband service question how a company can justify investments in a fiber infrastructure without a "killer app" that provides a new and proven revenue source different from what is available from existing copper wires. Governments question how they might build and operate their own networks, convince or pay existing carriers to do so, or encourage new market entrants to arrive and save the day.

We believe an innovative model holds unrealized promise: household investments in fiber. Consumers may one day purchase and own fiber connections that run from their homes. With their own fiber connections, they would be able to connect to a number of service providers, including today's Internet, television, and telephone services, as well as ultra-bandwidth intensive services of the future. Consumers would have the opportunity not only to get a fast broadband connection, but could also benefit from greater competition and lower prices in the retail service market.

Disciplines

Communications Law | Internet Law | Law

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