2007-09-12

Telia first in the world with smart broadband

– simpler for customers when broadband becomes intelligent

Telia has secretly started to rebuild its broadband network and will be the first in the world to have “smart” broadband, which means that the connection can easily be used for more than surfing. The heart of the new digital home is an intelligent box that connects all data, sound and video equipment. For customers, Telia Smart broadband puts an end to complicated installations and tangled cords.

Telia Smart entails equipping the telephone jack with an all-in-one box (i.e.a gateway), that has room for a broadband modem, a built-in wireless network, IP telephony adapter and firewall. The user does not need to worry about whether it is the telephone, TV or game console that is connected to the box – the box knows automatically which type of unit is being used.

“We know that customers want to connect their electronics to their home network and the Internet, but also that the majority of these customers are not doing so because it is difficult and they are unsure about which technologies can be used with what. Therefore, we are offering a smarter broadband solution that is not only surfing-friendly but also user-friendly,” says Erik Hallberg, head of Broadband Services at TeliaSonera in Sweden.

The customer no longer needs to play IT technician
Telia Smart Start costs SEK 29 per month (costs for other services are additional). Telia Smart Start includes a box (gateway) and Telia is responsible for ensuring that everything functions properly. The customer no longer needs to play IT technician since updates and support are pushed via the network and any problems that occur are fixed remotely. In addition to an Internet connection, IP telephony and digital TV, Telia’s smart broadband also offers music and entertainment services such as Internet radio and music subscriptions. During the fall, services that have not previously been associated with broadband providers, such as home security, will also be offered.

First in the world
The new network adapts itself to the units that are connected to it – not the other way around. In traditional broadband networks, the paths the traffic will take are pre-determined, which makes the network less flexible. The new smart broadband network is already prepared today to meet future requirements on communication services in the home.

“The launch of Telia Smart is the first step in making a serious effort to connect communication in the home. We are first in the world to build this kind of commercial network and we know that foreign operators are following the project closely,” says Erik Hallberg.

Facts about Telia Smart
Smart broadband means that the home network is connected via a single unit (gateway). Broadband, TV, music and video games easily function together. From this unit, it is possible to expand the home network to include multiple types of services and products. Telia Smart requires a connection speed of 2 Mbps.

Read more (in Swedish)

Information about the company: Telia Company AB