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"Open access:" the ideal and the real

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  • Bittlingmayer, George
  • Hazlett, Thomas W.

Abstract

"Open access" would allow ISPs to use a cable operator's broadband connection under regulated terms and conditions. Advocates stress the desirability of an "end-to-end" architecture for the Internet and the danger that cable operators will use their control over the last mile to limit consumer choice and stifle innovation. Opponents contend that wholesale price controls and other regulatory burdens under what they term "forced access" would in fact slow down the deployment of broadband, stifle innovation and harm consumers. The fears of "open access" advocates seem largely speculative at this point. Evidence from related policies also favors the opponents. "Closed" cable systems are beating their "open" DSL competitors in the market place; analogous regulation of cable TV did not serve consumers well; and forced "unbundling" of local service has been controversial and largely ineffective. In addition, relevant technology stocks declined in price with political and legal victories for "open access" and increased when it suffered setbacks.

Suggested Citation

  • Bittlingmayer, George & Hazlett, Thomas W., 0. ""Open access:" the ideal and the real," Telecommunications Policy, Elsevier, vol. 26(5-6), pages 295-310, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:telpol:v:26:y::i:5-6:p:295-310
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    Cited by:

    1. Pio Baake & Brigitte Preißl (Eds.). Johannes M. Bauer & Per Björstedt & Elena Gallo & Anders Henten & Sven Lindmark & Martijn Poel & Enzo Pontarollo & Knud Erik Skouby & Jason Whalley, 2006. "Local Loop Unbundling and Bitstream Access: Regulatory Practice in Europe and the U.S," DIW Berlin: Politikberatung kompakt, DIW Berlin, German Institute for Economic Research, volume 20, number pbk20, January.

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