 a different approach at each of the layers of Figure 2.6. Broadband Telecommunications Technologies and Management For example, direct regulation or using economic instruments may be effective at the infra- structure layer, whereas self-regulation or economic instruments may be sufficient at the content and service provision layers. Policy Dynamics for Broadband Infrastructure As discussed, broadband telecommunications services business can be defined using three layers: an underlying infrastructure which delivers the 'bits', a retail layer at which customers are served and managed, and a service/content layer which connects the customer to entertain- ment, news, services and meta-connectivity (such as social networking). Players at these three layers collaborate and compete with each other for a share of revenue from end-users. Each of these three layers has specific economic characteristics. The infrastructure layer may use optical fibres, copper wires or wireless links to establish connectivity, all of which require substantial initial investment. As described above, such infrastructure businesses behave as natural monopolies. It is therefore economically efficient that a single player pro- vides the service SO that the largest possible number of subscribers will use the network. Such a monopoly operation may need to be regulated by government under a policy regime. Note that natural monopoly tendencies are of different intensity depending on whether the broadband telecommunications infrastructure is wired (i.e. uses optical fibres, copper wires or cables) or wireless. The fixed infrastructure requires major investment in new constructions and upgrading existing infrastructure. It is therefore economically inefficient to construct two parallel sets of fixed infrastructure. It is a similar story in water/electricity/gas infrastructure where only one 'pipe' enters a home. As noted above, such a natural monopoly may need to be regulated. Wireless infrastructure build-up costs are also significant, but to a lesse