Ofcom has introduced new regulations to extend
wireless broadband access across the country, including rural
areas.
The regulations cover the 5.8 GHz band, currently used by a
number of operators to provide
fixed wireless broadband services in the UK.
Under the new regulations, the operators will be able to
increase power levels, potentially extending the range and variety
of services into parts of the country that were previously not
covered.
This is likely to have the biggest effect in rural areas, said
Ofcom. A recent Ofcom report said 41% of adults living in rural
areas had broadband internet at home, compared to 45% of adults in
urban areas.
The power increase in the 5.8GHz band will make it less
expensive for operators intending to use this band to provide fixed
broadband access to remote parts of the UK.
Ofcom chief executive Ed Richards said, "This measure means
communities across the country may be able to benefit from access
to a new form of broadband. That is what closing the digital divide
is all about."
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Full details of the Ofcom changes >>
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