 A broadband line is a connection between a consumer’s home and a carrier’s network that provides data access services of at least 256 Kbps. In most cases this is a physical connection using copper-based DSL, cable modem or FTTH/FTTP with Ethernet in the last mile in a building. However, Gartner also includes other emerging access technologies, such as wireless broadband, satellite and power lines when they are used as replacement technologies for residential fixed-line broadband.

 Broadband services revenue includes all the retail revenue associated with providing broadband access to consumers. This does not include IP services revenue — especially Internet access revenue — that is commonly bundled with the broadband line. Broadband access and Internet access are two different services, and Internet access revenue is reflected in the Internet segment.