In conclusion we have seen that the telecommunications market is very dynamic at the moment with new and existing operators jostling for position. Factors affecting the market include regulation, which is encouraging new entrants into the market, as well as the advent of new interactive services, which is placing new requirements on the network. In addition there is now a large choice of new access technologies becoming available, and this choice is a critical part of each operator's strategy. Access forms a dominant part of the investment required as well as determining the level of service offered.

The choice may clearly be different between new entrant operators and established companies who may already have an installed base of one particular network. In particular a suitable choice for a Telco would be the use of DSL technologies since they exploit the existing copper network. In addition the best way forward would be through low, mid and highband phases as the market develops over a period of time.

In a world where telecommunications continues to change at an increasing pace, the access business will need to re-invent itself. There are no easy or cheap options available for access and no single initiative will instantly transform an incumbent access network. Although the access network dates back to the earliest dates of telecommunications it remains critical in the delivery of even the most advanced and modern service to the user. Thus the future of access is assured but the structure of the access business and the underlying access technology will inevitably continue to evolve.