However, in developed countries, respondents also noted a growing dependence on the Web as an information source, business tool, social network and entertainment venue.

"This clearly shows that people across the world rely on broadband services as a central part of their social and economic lives.

"As the world looks at ways to address the twin challenges of economic growth and climate change, our research shows that broadband and the digital economy must absolutely be at the top of decision making agendas," Alcatel-Lucent Chief Marketing Officer Tim Krause said.