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

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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