IP networks are getting crowded, thanks to the ever-increasing demand for voice and data communications driven by the proliferation of smartphones and tablets. The growth of IP networks has accelerated the demand for IP media servers, which is an integral component to enable fixed-mobile convergence. IP media server also offers services like video ringback tones, video conferencing and video messaging. 

The Cisco (News - Alert) Visual Networking Index recently predicted the number of devices connected to IP networks will be double the global population in 2015. To meet the demands arising out of high-bandwidth IP media server applications, service providers have to increase capacity and throughput. Several communications providers in the country have already initiated this process.

Recently, Charter Communication, a provider of broadband communications and the fourth-largest cable operator in the United States increased its download speeds, doubling upload speeds on its most popular Internet service tiers at no additional cost, a press release revealed.

With these improvements, Charter is answering the call from more users, devices, streams and IP media server applications seeking Internet connectivity with faster upload and download speeds, greater reliability and a superior experience, company officials said.

As part of this offer, the company is increasing Charter Internet Express download speeds from 12 megabits per second (Mbps) to up to 15 Mbps, and increasing upload speeds from 1 Mbps to up to 3 Mbps in market where it has deployed DOCSIS 3.0 technology. Charter Internet Plus download speeds are being increased from 18 Mbps to up to 30 Mbps, and upload speeds are being increased from 2 Mbps to up to 4 Mbps, the release stated.

Furthermore, the company also increased its residential offering from 60 Mbps download to up to 100 Mbps download/5 Mbps upload. This service has been renamed Charter Internet Ultra100 to reflect the significant enhancement. Express and Plus speeds are also increasing in the remaining portions of Charter's service areas nationwide.

Rich DiGeronimo, Charter senior vice president, Product and Strategy, concluded in a statement, "With multiple connected devices in your home, you don't have to make tradeoffs with Charter Internet. You can use multiple gadgets simultaneously, and enjoy a rich experience with each one. The power of the Internet continues to grow, and Charter delivers more speed than ever."