Federal Government Announces Enhanced Internet Speed

Monitoring Desk: The federal government has announced improvements in internet speed. Minister of State for IT, Ms. Sheza Fatima Khawaja, stated in the Senate that two new submarine cables are being introduced, which will enhance internet quality. She added that increased spectrum availability would boost internet speed.

She highlighted that the issue arose due to pressure on the current internet spectrum. The PTA has contacted the U.S. regarding the allocation of 500 MHz of spectrum, and a response is awaited.
PML-N Senator Anusha Rahman emphasized that simply allocating spectrum without effectively utilizing would be of no benefit.

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Internet Spectrum

The internet spectrum refers to the electromagnetic frequencies used to wirelessly transmit data through the internet. It is part of the broader electromagnetic spectrum, which includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared, and other waves.

Key Aspects of Internet Spectrum:

1. Frequency Bands:
   1. The internet primarily uses specific portions of the radio frequency spectrum:
      1. 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands for Wi-Fi.
      1. Sub-6 GHz and mmWave (millimeter-wave) bands for 5G mobile networks.
   1. These frequencies are regulated by government agencies such as the PTA (Pakistan Telecommunication Authority) in Pakistan or the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) in the U.S.
2. Wireless Technologies:
   The internet spectrum plays a vital role in supporting various wireless technologies, including:
   1. Wi-Fi
   1. Cellular networks (4G, 5G)
   1. Bluetooth
   1. Satellite internet
3. Spectrum Allocation:
   Different frequency bands have specific characteristics:
   1. Low Frequencies (below 1 GHz): These can travel long distances and penetrate buildings better but offer slower speeds.
   1. High Frequencies (above 24 GHz, mmWave): These provide faster speeds and higher data capacity but have limited range and are easily obstructed.
4. Role in Internet Connectivity:
   The spectrum enables wireless transmission of data between devices, such as between a mobile phone and a tower or a laptop and a Wi-Fi router.
   It supports activities like streaming, video conferencing, online gaming, and IoT (Internet of Things) devices.
5. Challenges:
   1. Spectrum Scarcity: The growing demand for internet services often leads to spectrum congestion, resulting in slower speeds or connectivity issues.
   1. Interference: The use of the same spectrum by multiple devices can cause interference, affecting performance.
6. Future Use of Spectrum:
   As technology evolves, innovations like dynamic spectrum sharing and spectrum auctions are being implemented to optimize and expand wireless frequency availability.

Summary:
The internet spectrum forms the backbone of wireless communication, enabling high-speed data transfer for devices and networks worldwide.