Page 9 - Connecting the Future How Connectivity and AI Unlock New Potential

Connecting the Future: How Connectivity and AI Unlock New Potential

Figure 1: How the Internet Reaches You

Middle mile connections comprise most communications infrastructure, as data transmits across
less robust fiberoptic and wireless components to connect local Internet Service Providers (ISPs)
via IXPs. To provide a reasonably comparable level of service for rural communities, governments
generally invest in middle mile networks when seeking to increase broadband access.
Finally, local ISPs deliver connectivity to their customers through fixed or mobile last mile connec-
tions. Last-mile connectivity remains a critical component of global broadband infrastructure,
especially as efforts intensify to close the digital divide. Among available technologies, fiber-optic
infrastructure continues to provide the fastest and most reliable last-mile connectivity, offering
high-capacity, low-latency service ideal for both residential and enterprise users.
This is extensively supported by the work of ITU-T Study Group 15, which develops international
standards for transport and access networks, including passive optical networks (PON), G.fast for
copper/fiber convergence, and Radio-over-Fiber (RoF) systems (e.g., ITU-T G.9803), ensuring robust
and scalable deployment of fiber-based broadband. 5
However, in regions where fiber deployment is economically or logistically challenging, wireless
technologies serve as important alternatives. Mobile broadband and geostationary or low-earth
orbit satellite systems offer flexible, wide-reaching solutions for extending connectivity to rural
or geographically isolated communities. These modes of access are addressed by ITU-T Study
Group 13, which focuses on future network evolution, including fixed, mobile, and satellite conver-
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gence under the IMT-2020 framework and beyond. Recommendations such as Y.3201 explicitly
define architectural and functional requirements for the seamless integration of satellite and mobile

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