Why Switzerland has 25 gbit internet and America doesn't (stefan.schueller.net)

Article summary

The article discusses the difference in internet speeds and prices between Switzerland, the United States, and Germany, highlighting Switzerland's highly regulated telecom sector and government-backed infrastructure projects as the reason for its fast and affordable internet. In contrast, the US and Germany have slower and more expensive internet due to a lack of regulation and competition. The article argues that the Swiss model of treating physical infrastructure as a neutral, shared asset and enforcing open access to it is the key to its success. This approach allows for genuine competition among internet service providers, driving down prices and increasing speeds.

Main themes

• Internet infrastructure
• Regulation and competition
• Telecom policy
• Natural monopolies
• Fiber optic internet
• Market models

What commenters say

• The US has a large geographical area, but this is not the primary reason for its poor internet infrastructure, as many other large countries have better internet despite similar challenges.
• The density of population in the US is not the main issue, as many European countries have similar or lower densities but better internet infrastructure.
• The lack of regulation and competition in the US telecom market is the main reason for its slow and expensive internet, as it allows incumbents to maintain monopolies and stifle innovation.
• The Swiss model of open access to physical infrastructure and enforced competition is a better approach to achieving fast and affordable internet, as it promotes innovation and drives down prices.
• The idea that it is too difficult or expensive to lay fiber optic cables in the US is overstated, as directional boring and other technologies make it possible to install fiber without digging up streets.
• The comparison between the US and Switzerland is not entirely fair, as Switzerland has a smaller geographical area and a more uniform population density, making it easier to build out fiber optic infrastructure.
• The US should adopt policies that promote competition and open access to physical infrastructure, such as mandating open access to fiber ducts and dark fiber, to improve its internet infrastructure.
• The issue of internet infrastructure is not just about technology, but also about politics and regulatory frameworks, and the US needs to reform its telecom policies to prioritize competition and consumer interests.