Looks like Google has company in its bid to build an ultra-fast broadband network that would easily handle online video demands in the United States. The Financial Times is reporting Cisco Systems also is developing a 1Gbps network, but it's working in concert, rather than in competition, with existing ISPs.
While Google's announcement of its plans for an experimental network was viewed by many as a declaration by the search giant that it would be jumping into battle with existing broadband operators--which Google CEO Eric Schmidt dismissed--Cisco, according to company sources, would likely work in partnership with providers, many of which--like AT&T and Comcast--already are customers, the Times said.
Cisco declined comment, aside to say it "looked forward to being part of this exciting transformation" to ultra-high speed broadband. The company has been a ready proponent of increasing Internet speeds dramatically.
The FCC last week also dipped its toe into the 1 Gbps waters.
FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said during the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners conference that the agency's proposed "100 Squared Initiative" is designed to deliver 100 Mbps to 100 million homes. However, details on how or when Genachowski wants to achieve his "100 Squared Initiative" at this point are scarce, although the FCC set 2020 aS A GOAL.
Last year, the FCC said building out and upgrading networks could cost up to $350 billion.
Blair Levin, executive director of the FCC's broadband plan, told the Times he expects demand to be high for Google's trial and that the eventual cost to roll out service will be "less than expected."
For more:
- see this Financial Times article
Related articles:
FCC sets high broadband speed bar
Google plans 1GBps broadband service test network