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Report looks at broadband use during a flu epidemic
Wednesday 28th October 2009, by Daniel King
A new report has looked at the effect a swine flu epidemic might have on broadband services across the world as more people attempt to stay in touch with the world from their sick beds.
The study was put together by the US government's accountability office and according to the GigaOM website, could be part of a wider plan to ensure global networks remain protected in a time of crisis.
It was noted that swine flu could have a significant impact on broadband infrastructures and the American department of homeland security might need to come up with a strategy to deal with this should it occur.
In addition to network congestion created by people looking to keep themselves entertained, areas of concern highlighted could include the volume of students and office workers forced to stay indoors.
However, GigaOM noted that the study was slightly "hysterical" and served only to point out the obvious in terms of more investment being needed to ensure the future of the web in a world that is becoming increasingly dependent on it.
"The report is a nice illustration of what we have been trying to hammer home for a while - broadband is an essential service that is only going to be more important over time," it concluded.
Earlier this month, a spokesman for independent data services specialist Point Topic said it was clear that the implementation of super-fast internet options would need support from the private sector.
Tim Johnson, chief analyst at the firm, said that although fibre-based technology was essential, it would not get far without the right funding.
Categories: Broadband, Wireless Broadband
