Small broadband operators aim to challenge larger ISPs

A group of small internet service providers (ISPs) are combining their broadband purchasing needs in an effort to offer better deals for business and consumer customers.

The UK Internet Forum (UKIF) is launching a new Enterprise Forum to allow members to improve their profits and challenge larger broadband operators by offering services such as cheaper, more innovative and flexible packages, faster speeds and no download limits.

One of the new forum's key goals is to galvanise member ISPs into forming the UK's first aggregated technology buying group to drive better discounts on the costs of purchasing broadband connections, hardware such as modems, and wholesale network broadband access.

The regulation of wholesale network broadband access is the focus of ongoing efforts by telecoms regulator Ofcom to force more direct access to networks rather than using BT's indirect network connections - which restrict speeds and the numbers of users who can share a connection at one time.

UKIF managing director Johnny Mulligan says smaller, more rural areas may not see the benefit of Ofcom's regulatory efforts.

The Office of the Telecoms Adjudicator report published in February said BT is 40 per cent short of Ofcom's target for opening up its network to other operators who want offer broadband telephony services.

The Enterprise Forum will also provide UKIF with a more formal means of representing its members' views in ongoing Ofcom work and provide its members with collaboration and development opportunities.

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See also:

DSL and cable to offer 20Mbps broadband

Battle for home broadband centres on 'triple play' voice, data and video  14 Apr 2005

BT heeds Ofcom to create access division

BT proposal pre-empts action from UK regulator  04 Feb 2005

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