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Radiocommunication Sector Activities

Broadband radiocommunication networks play a vital role in providing both urban and rural areas with high-capacity Internet access on the move.

Wireless solutions often are the most effective option to address access infrastructure needs quickly.

The recent explosion in mobile broadband networks and subscribers is helping bring the experience of higher speed, broadband Internet to remote and rural areas.

In its role overseeing the global allocation and management of radio-frequency spectrum, ITU-R identifies, manages and monitors radio-frequency spectrum to ensure the effective operation of broadband networks without interference to or from other radio systems.

Through its many activities, ITU-R enables the delivery of equitable, affordable broadband access to the Internet for all people, regardless of where they live.

Highlights / Spotlight on…

ITU-R developed the first family of standards for the global broadband multimedia international mobile system known as IMT-2000, commonly referred to as 3G. Detailed specifications for the next phase of development in mobile communications, IMT-Advanced, were finalized in January 2012 and the requirements for mobile broadband wireless access up to the year 2020 are now being considered.

Key Deliverables

ITU-R works on developing globally-agreed technical standards for wireless broadband systems. ITU-R Study Groups unite leading experts from network operators, ISPs, broadcasters, regulators and R&D organizations to develop technical standards for interoperability and performance of terrestrial and satellite broadband systems.

ITU-R is also continuing its studies on emerging technologies such as cognitive radio, short-range devices and free-space optical communication systems, to ensure that all ITU Member States benefit from the latest technological developments and are able to operate these systems within an optimized global regulatory framework.

Projects and programmes

ITU-R oversees orbital allocations for satellite broadband systems, which offer prospects of connecting entire countries to high-speed Internet access through a single satellite network. Satellite broadband radiocommunication systems are especially important for landlocked countries.

ITU-R is undertaking studies of possible bands for new allocations to mobile-satellite service (MSS) systems. It finalized the detailed specifications for the satellite radio interfaces of IMT-Advanced in December 2013 and expects to finalize new and revised standards on fixed-satellite service (FSS) broadband systems in the near future.

Get involved!

The World Radiocommunication Conference 2015 (WRC-15) will review and endorse global allocations of spectrum to ensure that this most precious resource is used effectively to the benefit of ITU Member States, radio-frequency spectrum and mobile phone users everywhere. Making additional spectrum available for IMT and mobile broadband are key topics for consideration at WRC-15.