Google To Build Fibre Optic Network

Google has announced plans to build a number of trial fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) networks in communities across the US, claiming that it will provide broadband at downlink speeds of up to 1Gbps. James Kelly, project manager on Google's infrastructure team, said: ‘We are doing this because we want to experiment with new ways to make the web better and faster for everyone, allowing new applications that aren't possible today. We are going to try out new ways to build and operate fibre networks and share what we learn with the world.’

Between now and 26 March 2010, interested states, cities, towns and communities can file a ‘Request for Information’ in the hope of being selected by Google as a trial community. Google revealed that the trial FTTH networks will be open for use by other service providers, and will each serve between 50,000 and 500,000 users.

David Fish, spokesman for incumbent fibre operator Verizon, revealed that his company would be interested in the results of the trials, saying: ‘The internet ecosystem is dynamic and competitive, and it’s delivering great benefits to consumers. Google’s expansion of its networks to enter the access market is another new paragraph in this exciting story.’

FCC chairman Julius Genachowski also welcomed the move, noting: ‘Big broadband creates big opportunities. This significant trial will provide an American testbed for the next generation of innovative, high speed internet applications, devices, and services.’