Technical steering of telecommunications

Technical regulations and related documents

Provisions on technical quality requirements for communications networks and communications services are included in the Communications Market Act (393/2003, amendments included) and in the Act on the Protection of Privacy in Electronic Communications (516/2004, amendments included). As technology is constantly developing, it is not relevant to issue detailed provisions on changing features in law. Instead, FICORA may issue technical regulations that precise the requirements. Technical regulations are usually drafted in working groups and they are sent out for public consultation to government authorities and other interest groups before publishing.

There are two ways to present the requirements: they are either incorporated in the regulation or in standards. If the technical details are in standards, a list of relevant standards (SDL) is annexed to the regulation. A binding reference is only made to established standards. Standards are binding merely to the extent they are related to the requirements of the regulation. Most references are informative.

The regulation is often linked with an explanatory memorandum or a recommendation on the application of the regulation (SMS) or both. The memorandum explains the purpose of the regulation and other related regulations and provisions. The SMS recommendation gives examples of various situations for application. Another document, which may relate to the regulation, is a national guideline for implementation (GFI). The regulations are provided with a link to an English version when such document is available.

Recommendations and reports

Steering and coordination of the technical implementation of communications networks and communications services is one of FICORA's tasks. The agency seeks to support cooperation between various actors by issuing recommendations and setting up working groups focusing on a certain area. The recommendations may concern the technical implementation of a matter, procedures between the actors, or application of legislation. The working group reports may describe the situation, alternatives and problems pertaining to the technical development of a question. They may also include the working group's recommendations and proposals for solutions.

Interconnection