A Case Study on the Development of Broadband Technology in Canada

Abstract

Broadband commonly refers to Internet connection speeds greater than narrowband connection speed of 56kbs. Digital subscriber lines (DSL) and cable modems were the most popular forms of broadband in public use over the last 10 years. In 2004, over 80% of U.S. homes were equipped with cable modems, and up to 66% of U.S. households were able to receive DSL transmissions. It is expected that the impact of broadband technologies will continue to play an important role in the U.S. and the rest of the world. It is predicted that the number of broadband-enabled homes will exceed 90 million worldwide by 2007 (Jones, 2003). Canada and Korea currently are the two countries leading the way in broadband saturation. The following discussion focuses on the Canadian case of broadband development.