NGN are modern, powerful packet-switched networks (All-IP). They form the new basis of the entire range of telecommunication services, e. g. the internet and television broadcasting, as well as simple telephony. NGN need fast broadband networks for transmission, such as DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) on the telephone line or LTE (Long Term Evolution) in mobile radio. For even greater transmission capacity, the latest generation of high-speed broadband networks is emerging, with technologies such as DOCSIS-3 (the cable television network), FTTH (optical fibre) and LTE Pro (mobile radio).
High-speed broadband
Today, high-speed broadband refers to data rates upwards of approximately 100 Mbit/s. The capacity of data networks is increased by high-speed broadband technologies, for example optical fibre in the fixed network or additional frequencies in the case of mobile radio. In parallel, a transition from circuit-switched to packet-switched services is taking place. This means that exclusive channels are no longer needed to transmit telephony, radio or television. Instead, all information is transmitted in small data packets on common networks (All-IP). Interruptions in time-critical services such as telephony have to be prevented by prioritising specific data packets (Quality of Service).
Access - Working Group on Next Generation Access
| Technology | Transmission speed |
|---|---|
| Digital telephone line (G.fast) | 100 Mbit/s |
| Cable television (CATV) | 500 Mbit/s |
| Fibre (FTTH) | 1000 Mbit/s |
| Mobile radio (LTE) | up to 100 Mbit/s |
The Round Table initiated by the Federal Communications Commission (ComCom) in 2008 made it possible, among other things, to define technical standards and cooperation models between network operators in order to roll out optical fibre networks in Switzerland. Afterwards, it became necessary to expand the discussion to all technologies.
OFCOM set up a working group for this purpose in 2011. It was intended to draw up a basis enabling policy decision-makers in municipalities, regions and cantons to take their decisions. The working group surveyed the existing fixed networks. This information is available in the form of an interactive map (www.atlaslargebande.ch). In mid-2012 the working group also published a "Guide" and checklist for responsible persons in municipalities, regions and cantons. This uses case studies and a list to show how the Swiss population can be provided with high-speed broadband networks. This information is published at www.treslargebande.ch. The working group then arranged for a qualitative survey of SMEs to learn more about their use of broadband. This information is published on the "Guide" website.
Survey 2010 and Workshop 2006
Last modification 03.02.2017
