Federal Council increases speed of Internet in basic service
The Federal Council is tripling the minimum internet speed required for basic service. This will particularly benefit citizens who live in areas where no alternative providers are available on the market.
The minimum download speed will be increased from 3 to 10 megabits per second (Mbit/s) from January 1, 2020, the Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) announced on Wednesday. In addition, the minimum upload speed will be increased from 0.3 to 1 Mbit/s.
With the decision taken on Wednesday, the Federal Council is implementing a motion adopted by Parliament, which called for the minimum speeds to be increased. Swisscom, which holds the license for the universal service, must implement the new requirements.
The faster connection increases the possibility of participating in social and economic life via the Internet, especially for the population in areas without alternative services, writes Bakom. It also improves the simultaneous use of Internet services and applications in multi-person households.
The basic service, which in addition to broadband Internet access includes public telephone service and special services for the disabled, aims to provide all sections of the population with an affordable and reliable basic service in all parts of the country. (SDA)
