Broadband – Controlling A Giant

Growth despite the credit crunch

While many business sectors are suffering in the current financial climate, broadband has seen an increase of 592,000 connections since the last quarter of 2007. The latest OTA figures reveal that the UK has over 17 million broadband connections in homes across the land, as the use of internet swamps many other forms of communication.



In terms of the broadband and communications arena there are many new rules and regulations under consideration. The newly appointed Junior Minister for Communications, Technology and Broadcasting, Stephen Carter will see his work cut out for him as the internet reaches an ever growing audience.

Can the internet be controlled?

One of the biggest challenges which lies ahead is the regulation of online video content. The information sharing aspect of the internet is one of this media’s biggest attractions, however rules which were set to protect children from adult sites, could result in the repression of pioneering new media. If, for example there are sites which incorporate online videos, decisions will have to be made about whether the average Joe blogger who wants to attach a clip has to apply for a certificate for his site. Other important questions include who will certify each video, how long with the process take and how much will it cost? As the majority of online video content is produced overseas, how would a UK video regulation policy be implemented? These and many other questions will have to be addressed in order to continue protecting vulnerable internet users, whilst allowing for innovative growth which is in line with the rest of the world.

Accessing all areas

The benefit of broadband and the accessibility to online information has made it a phenomenon which has revolutionised communication across the globe. However, on the downside the ability to share files and copy information has had devastating effects on a number of well documented industries such as music and film. Indeed, with the rise of expert hacking organisations, personal information such as bank details and addresses can be more easily attained online than ever before. These problem areas reveal a real need for tighter controls and universal regulations which will protect information when necessary. However, as a medium which is shared throughout the world, controlling and regulating the internet is a mammoth task.

A time to regulate

The biggest organisations who can afford to protect their products and profits are making the most headway in terms of copyright and privacy. Perhaps their influence will make the biggest waves online giving greater restrictions through data protection, without stifling the growth of new media. One thing’s for sure, as the growth of broadband infiltrates every aspect of our lives from work to school and home, the necessity for controlling and protecting information is one of the most important tasks at hand.

By: Ben Leach