Already entrenched in the largest service provider broadband backbone networks, it only makes sense that Cisco Systems would lend its hand to those same customers to build 1 Gbps-capable last mile network. The routing giant's move comes on the heels of Google's proposal to build a 1 Gbps open access FTTH system and the FCC's upcoming national broadband plan that will be submitted to Congress next month.
A big difference with the Cisco proposal is that unlike Google's proposal that could compete with the large carriers--an argument that company CEO Eric Schmidt has immediately dismissed--the routing giant will work with its existing customers to build this network.
At this point, Cisco is not saying much other than it "looked forward to being part of this exciting transformation" to ultra-high speed broadband.
Cisco could be a white knight for the large carriers who will likely face pressure by the FCC to expand broadband investments when they reveal their plan to Congress. During last week's National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners conference, the FCC announced its proposed "100 Squared Initiative" which is designed to deliver 100 Mbps to 100 million homes. Other than saying it wants to achieve this 100 Mbps goal by 2020, details on the plan at this point are scarce.
For more:
- Financial Times has this article
Related articles
Cisco in push with Google for 1Gbps broadband network in U.S.
100 questions about 100 Squared
FCC sets high broadband speed bar
Google launches open access FTTH network trial