Value network analysis in a low-cost and affordable internet

Abstract

Despite widespread growth in the information society, the digital divide remains. This disparity is notable both in rural areas where the operator return on investment limits coverage, as well as in low-income, urban areas where citizens cannot afford Internet prices. For the first time, a systematic comparison between value network configurations is performed to bridge the digital divide. This aims to identify network technologies and operator revenue models that minimize network costs, guarantee levels of market competition, and maximize service affordability to users. Multiple network technologies are assessed including publish-subscribe networking, edge caching as well as IEEE and 3GPP wireless access. As a result, three configurations are defined lead by a WISP, a community operator, and a MNO, respectively. Although the costs of the three operators might be at a similar level, it is the investment pay back time that determines its viability.