DEFINITIONS
Advanced communications networks. Networks that have migrated from traditional
circuit switched systems to packet switched networks. These include IP networks, ATM
Networks and Next Generation Networks for example.
Advanced communications services. Services delivered over advanced communications
networks, such as the Internet and related services.
Asynchronous Transfer Mode Network. A network that uses the Asynchronous
Transfer Mode (ATM) protocol. The ATM protocol outlines a way to transfer data in
packets, or cells. This protocol is very efficient, as it allows different types of information
such as voice, data, and video to be transmitted in the same cell. This makes use of every
byte of space available on the network at all times and has a higher bandwidth than other
types of networks.
Broadband. High-speed data transfer connections based on optical infrastructure. T1
(1.5 Mbps) has been widely used as the threshold; however, some countries such as South
Korea use T3 (45 Mbps) as the speed threshold for broadband. Broadband technology is
based on optical infrastructure.
Broadcasting. Broadcasting is a process that sends voice, data, or video signals
simultaneously to a group in a specific geographic area or to those connected to a
broadcast network system such as a satellite or cable television system. Broadcasting is
typically associated with radio, television radio transmission systems and the Internet.
Circuit Switched Network. A type of network in which a physical path is obtained for
and dedicated to a single connection between two end points in the network for the
duration of the connection.
ICT Policy for Lesotho
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