Since I already have ADSL at home, why is the City still constructing the fiber-optic network?
Currently, internet access is costly and the “last mile” controversy continues. Since ADSL employs copper telephone lines, transmission speed is significantly slower and quality deteriorates over distance. FTTH, which adopts optical fiber cables, is immune from electromagnetic interference, allows for long-distance transmission, and boasts more stable signals. From another perspective, the bandwidth cap currently set by service providers is 50M for data download and 5M for data upload. Taifo plans to provide users with a minimal bandwidth of 100M, allowing Taipei residents to enjoy fast and stable internet connection and application services similar to other advanced countries. Taifo has guaranteed lower-than-market-price subscription rates for FTTH services. It also promised to offer preferential deals of up to 50 percent discount for indigenous people and disadvantaged groups (including low-income families and the disabled). Different deals will apply to charitable organizations. In conclusion, the implementation of FTTH will create a triple-win situation for Taipei residents, industry players, as well as the city government. Disadvantaged groups will also benefit from the development of information and communications technology, helping to bridge the digital divide.