|
|
Network Access
Information Infrastructure (Stage 4)
To be classified as stage 4, accessibility to internet must be widespread. The Netherlands has the highest broadband penetration in the European Union. There is access to voice, data and mobile services. Netherlands plays host to the Amsterdam Internet Exchange (AMS-IX). The AMS-IX is the second largest Internet Exchange in the world, when measured by peak or the largest when measured by average throughput. The mobile network in Netherlands run on GSM which is compatible with the European Union and most of the world.
|
Internet Availability (Stage 4)
There are many internet service providers in Netherlands making access to internet . DSL is available to 100% of the population and cable service is available to 92% of the population. More than 85% of the country of Netherlands has access to the internet. Netherlands has a population of over 16 million and there are close to 15 million internet subscribers.
|
Internet Affordability (Stage 4)
Since there are so many internet service providers in Netherlands, competition has brought down prices. Internet access is very affordable. Actual prices could not be found however. The policy of the Netherlands is to be able to provide affordable internet access to all.
|
Network Speed and Quality (Stage 4)
Highspeed and stable internet is available via the internet service providers in Netherlands. There are 5 major DSL providers that serve more than 2.5 million subscribers. There are 5 major cable internet providers that have over 1.5 million subscribers. The internet service providers are constantly upgrading their networks. The DSL providers are adding new features such as video on demand, IPTV and VDSL.
|
Hardware and Software (Stage 4)
Netherlands has access to all major resellers of computer software and hardware. Dell, HP, IBM, Lenovo all sell in Netherlands. Microsoft and other software resellers all have a presence in Netherlands. Accessing hardware and software is easy and affordable.
|
Service and Support (Stage 4)
As indicated on ISP Service websites, all providers may be contacted by phone or email for customer service but no current metrics are readily available to determine customer ticket or problem resolution time. Per each providers website, competitive and sophisticated web design markets exist and do incorporate the latest development technology. However, as current and supporting statistics are unavailable, the stage for Netherlands Service and Support is inconclusive.
|
Top Broadband Penetration by Population (2005 vs 2006)
|
