Non-incumbent network providers urge regulatory forbearance on new entrants to promote competition and speed broadband deployment. Precedents established in this debate may determine whether future Internet policy is decided by the marketplace or by government. Broadband policies should promote competition, investment and innovation through deregulation of Old World technology and non-regulation of New World technologies. Competitive markets benefit consumers and stimulate investment, leading to lower prices, higher quality and greater choices for consumers. Broadband policies should promote competition.
Investment sparks rapid innovation, improvement and economic efficiency in products and services.
Broadband policies should encourage investment. Regulations stifle competition and investment, so regulatory tools should be used sparingly. Broadband refers to the capacity to deliver high speed Internet access. Wireless Satellite Companies are investing hundreds of billions in new fiber optics, wireless equipment, hardware and software to increase their capacity to deliver broadband. 2.5 billion hours were wasted in 1998 waiting for web pages to download.