Bit-stream access

Bit stream access is a key tool for opening competition in the broadband market. It enables competitors to offer their own products to consumers.

Bit stream access differs from providing access to the copper pair in the local loop as bit stream access allows the new entrant to use the (high-speed) modems and other equipment provided by the incumbent. This affects the economics of the service and places restrictions on the type of modems that the customer of the new entrant can buy or rent.

Bit-stream handover points can be at various levels:

• bit stream handover at DSLAM
• bit stream handover at ATM-PoP
• bit stream handover at IP level

Bit Stream Access in EU

The provision of bit stream services is not mandated under European Community law, but where an incumbent operator provides bit-stream DSL services to its own services, subsidiary or third party, then, in accordance with Community law, it must also provide such forms of access under transparent and non-discriminatory terms or conditions to others (Directive 98/10/EC Article 16)