Communications infrastructure refers to the physical and technical basis for the operation of communications and broadcasting services, including masts, towers, cable traces and other facilities. The system of communication networks is the set of technical systems based on this foundation, which provide voice, data, image transmission and audiovisual broadcasting. The infrastructure is an essential condition for the networks to come into existence, while the network means the actual operation of the infrastructure and its use for service provision purposes. The two areas are closely related but should be considered from different technical, investment and regulatory perspectives.
Construction
In Hungary, the NMHH is the authority responsible for the licensing of communications structures, such as antenna masts, towers, fixed and wireless network installations. The aim of the building and occupancy permit procedures is to ensure that the infrastructure is built in a lawful, technically sound and environmentally acceptable manner.
The NMHH’s construction licensing activities are based on the combined application of several pieces of legislation: in addition to the Electronic Communications Act and the relevant NMHH decrees, the conditions and the process of licensing are also governed by construction rules and the rules of public administration procedures.
The Authority checks the conformity of the submitted plans, consults with other authorities and keeps a register of authorised installations.
Hír-Közmű
The aim of the Comm Utility (Hír-Közmű) project is to create and operate a single national register of communications infrastructure in Hungary in the form of a geoinformatics database. The system includes the spatial location of fixed and wireless networks, trails, facilities and related technical data.
Comm Utility helps speed up authority procedures, plan investments and efficient utilities coordination. The database is operated on the basis of a legal obligation and with the cooperation of data providers.
Geographical survey
The NMHH makes an annual geographical survey of high-speed electronic communications networks. It collects data from service providers on existing and planned networks, their coverage and technical characteristics.
The survey will be used to draw up a list of areas not covered by high-speed networks and a national coverage map. The data provide a basis for Hungarian and EU funding programmes, network development decisions and digital inclusion measures.