Federal government to increase minimum Internet transmission rate as of 2018

The guaranteed transmission rate for downloading on the Internet is supposed to be 3000 kilobits per second (Kbit/s), and 300 Kbit/s for uploading data. Since the beginning of the year, the minimum transfer rate has been set at 2000/200 Kbit/s. The increase in the rate guarantees participation in social and economic life for the entire population in all parts of the country, writes Bakom in the draft revision of the Decree on Telecommunications Services (FDV) published on Tuesday. This transmission rate corresponds to the expected evolution and is sufficient to guarantee all basic services in good quality. According to Bakom, the rate corresponds to a "top value" in a European comparison of the universal service. Swisscom has the license for this universal service until the end of 2017.

Calls to fixed and mobile network included

In the draft for the license from 2018, Bakom also proposes that a telephone line should no longer be required for Internet access. According to the draft, the price of a fixed network subscription must in future include all calls to the Swiss fixed and mobile networks. The maximum subscription price is to be CHF 27.20 per month. For the total telephone/Internet package, the maximum price is to be CHF 58.75 per month. Internet-only access will cost CHF 44.85 per month.

IP telephony to become standard

Bakom wants the universal service licensee to no longer have to offer traditional analog and digital connections (ISDN) in the future. A multifunctional broadband connection is to replace these connection types. The broadband connection will be based on the Internet Protocol (IP). The development of technologies and telecommunications services promotes the conversion of telecommunications networks to IP technology, explains the Federal Office of Communications. (SDA)