A study conducted on behalf of Amdocs finds that consumers value reliability, affordability, and uninterrupted access — and suggests that providers may benefit by offering all three via mixed-technology networks.
The research — which was conducted by Dynata — found that 40% of respondents would be significantly impacted by loss of internet for a few hours. This is especially salient for millennials and Gen Z (47% and 43%, respectively).
Amdocs uses the research findings from “The Broadband Battle” to suggest that communications service providers (CSPs) could benefit by offering integrated fiber, 5G, and fixed wireless access (FWA).
The study looks at the landscape of various types of networks, which seems fairly complex and to be shifting. Some highlights:
Cable has the highest level of internet access (39%). It is followed by fiber (31%) and FWA (9%). The study found that 3% of consumers do not have a dedicated internet connection at home.
Fully 60% of respondents say their home internet is very reliable, but at the same time cite cost as the biggest issue. Commentary in the press release says that this illustrates the need to balance performance with affordability.
Overall, the priorities are closely divided. An equal percent (38%) of consumers prioritize speed and reliability when choosing a provider. The study commentary suggests that CSPs can put together offerings in their networks that eliminate trade-offs.
FWA and satellite broadband are the new kids on the block. Amdocs says that FWA is emerging as a strong competitor but that more than half of consumers — 47% — have never heard of it.
The broadband satellite sector is even newer. The survey found that 67% of consumers would consider switching if it provides a comparable experience. Concerns about cost, reliability, and speed persist. The study found that 37% of consumers are unfamiliar with satellite Internet. This, Amdocs Research says, points to an education gap about the technology.
“Satellite broadband is emerging as a premium backup solution,” Amdocs CTO Joe Hogan said in the press release about the Amdocs networks study. “Many consumers are starting to complement their fiber connection with a secondary satellite service, like Starlink, to ensure they’re never offline.”
Making the integration of the various technologies a working strategy relies on broadening the footprint and penetration rates of the newer entrants. Last month, Ookla reported its assessment that T-Mobile and Verizon are increasing their FWA speeds and subscribers to their FWA services.
