There are over 200 community networks in the UK, leading the world according to the OECD. However, many of these first generation networks are typically based on commodity wifi technology. As with any high-tech organisation, the time has come for a technology refresh - the speeds offered by 802.11 networks is no loinger remarkable and struggles to support many of the new services beginning to appear.

So what is the alternative? One thing is certain, next generation community infrastructures will be more complex to install but that shouldn't put communities off - a well planned and installed infrastructure is still something which any community can own, manage, and most importantly benefit from. GTC's understanding of community models and available technologies makes us an ideal partner if you're planning to update an existing community network or embark on a new project.

With a professional and experienced partner on your side, the opportunities for community broadband open up. No longer limited to commodity technology, the possibility of fibre-optic networks, for example, becomes a reality. With vast performance and a very long viable life (in excess of 20-years), fibre networks deliver speeds which allow you to realise your imagination without compromise, and their reliability means no late night calls and streched support rotas.

GTC delivered a presentation on how the Dutch village of Nuenen has taken this step, and how this can work for any market town or regeneration area. Click on the link to see the preseentation, or contact us for more information.

 Fibre - Small is Beautiful