An explanation of telecommunications
In this video, Informa TechTarget customer success senior manager Zach Mastrianni explains how telecommunication works and what it's used for.
From simple conversations to global innovation, telecommunications keep us connected.
Every time you make a call, send a text or stream a video, you're tapping into the world of telecommunications. But what exactly is it?
Telecommunications, or telecom, is the exchange of information over long distances using electronic means. It includes voice, data and video transmission through technologies like landlines, cellular networks, fiber optics and satellites. In short, it's the backbone of global communication.
Here, we'll explain how telecom works.
A telecom circuit consists of two stations -- think cell towers or radio stations. Each station has a transmitter and receiver -- sometimes combined into a transceiver. Stations are connected via copper wires or fiber-optic cables, which enable data transmission. They can also be connected wirelessly through electromagnetic waves.
The simplest form of telecom takes place between two stations, but it's also common for multiple transmitting and receiving stations to exchange data among themselves. This arrangement is called a telecom network. The internet is the largest example of a telecommunications network, but smaller examples include:
- Telephone networks.
- Cellular networks.
- Police and fire communications systems.
- Broadcast networks.
The telecom industry is massive, providing services ranging from internet access to mobile communication and broadcasting. Major providers include AT&T, Verizon, China Mobile, Deutsche Telekom and more. The industry has gradually shifted focus from voice calls to data-driven services like video streaming and cloud communication.
Historically, many providers were government-owned, but today, private companies dominate the market. In the U.S., the FCC regulates telecommunications, while the International Telecommunication Union oversees global standards.
Telecom isn't just about making calls -- it's about keeping the world connected, supporting businesses, healthcare and innovation. How do you use telecom? Let us know in the comments, and remember to like and subscribe, too.
Tommy Everson is an assistant editor for video content at TechTarget. He assists in content creation for TechTarget's YouTube channel and TikTok page.
Sabrina Polin is a senior managing editor of video content for the Learning Content team. She plans and develops video content for Informa TechTarget's editorial YouTube channel, Eye on Tech. Previously, Sabrina was a reporter for the Products Content team.