Launch of consultation on network termination points
Where to find a telecom network’s termination point: is it located in front of or behind the modem or router that a telecom provider offers? The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy is working on a policy rule that stipulates that the termination point of a telecom network is located in front of a network’s modem or router. The termination point is thus considered to be the point where the connection enters someone’s home.
The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) has received many consumer questions about this subject. That is why ACM is calling on everyone to respond. Responses are welcome through mid-February 2018.
Why a new policy rule?
With the policy rule, the Netherlands is able to complete the implementation of a European directive on competition in the markets in telecommunications terminal equipment. This directive promotes competition in the terminal equipment market. Routers and modems also belong to this market. In this way, consumers are given the opportunity to choose for themselves the terminal equipment for telecom services that meets their needs.
Benefits for consumers and businesses
When the policy rule comes into force, it will mainly benefit consumers and businesses that want to manage their terminal equipment themselves completely:
- Consumers and businesses are able to choose for themselves a product that best fits their situation;
- Terminal equipment will likely be given more functionalities, and will become more user-friendly. As soon as there is a market, it will be attractive for manufacturers to offer innovations;
- By using their own equipment, consumers and businesses will have more control over their privacy. If they use a telecom provider’s equipment, their customer data will be stored by that provider;
- Consumers and businesses are able to switch providers easily. With the new policy rule, portability of one’s own terminal equipment becomes possible. However, such modems or routers must meet the specifications of the new provider’s network.
Security and privacy concerns of telecom providers
Telecom providers have expressed their concerns about the new policy rules. They are concerned about:
- Security of their network;
- Safety of terminal equipment;
- Privacy of customers that use their own terminal equipment.
However, the proposed policy rule does not alter the responsibilities regarding security. Telecom providers continue to be responsible for the continuity and security of public networks. They are thus allowed to continue taking measures to secure these networks.
The responsibility for privacy lies with the consumers themselves and the manufacturers of terminal equipment. Only if telecom providers supply terminal equipment, then they are responsible instead of the manufacturer.