Telecommunications companies are in a battle for the consumer s dollar.
Ever since the world wide web began its explosive growth several years ago, there has been increasing demand for high-speed internet access, otherwise known as broadband access. In an effort to differentiate themselves from their competitors, companies are now trying to sell a package of services to consumers that includes voice, high-speed data, and cable television. Companies are betting that consumers will want to buy a bundle of services from a single company and simplify the process of paying their bills and seeking customer service. In order to provide these services to consumers, companies need a delivery method, a way to bridge the last mile to the consumer s house or place of business. This has traditionally been via some form of physical wire, but there are also wireless means of bridging the last mile.