Modules

Module 1: Basic economics of telecommunications and the Internet

This module gives a historical, technological and more specifically an economic panorama of the dynamics of telecommunications and the Internet. The main developments, as well as a first basic technical vocabulary, are presented within the framework of this module.

• The beginnings and rise of telecommunications (from origin to digitalization). The main terms of the technical vocabulary are presented in a simple way (the concept of signal, information theory, flow, bandwidth, coaxial cable and optic fibre, the notion of Erlang, principles and consequences of digitalization, the rise of cable, satellite, the triple play offer…).

• The dynamics of the Internet. The contemporary digital economy is the result of developments in both the technological and regulatory spheres. Indeed the starting point of the new economy was the dismantling of AT&T in 1984. From that new industrial organization and new regulation, the whole sector of telecommunications and the Internet has completely changed. Almost all economic sectors have also been affected by this evolution in regulation.

• Natural monopoly; pricing.
• Deregulation.
• Economics of networks.