Microsoft flexes lobbying muscle
eWeek | at | by Mike
Microsoft traditionally has steered clear of telecommunications regulators and legislators, but the software giant is raising its profile in Washington in a bid to spur rapid deployment of more affordable high-speed networks. The Redmond, Wash., company views faster, cheaper pipes, particularly emerging wireless broadband networks, as a conduit for selling more software applications and services.
The subject of a highly contentious and protracted debate in Washington, broadband deployment policy pits the Regional Bell Operating Companies against most other telecom service providers, including long distance companies, competing local exchange carriers and cable companies. For more than two years, the Bells have waged a vigorous campaign to roll back regulations requiring them to lease rivals' access to the "last mile" of the network at regulated rates.