As a department which is formally externally orientated, it is responsible for the implementation and further development of the telecommunications framework within its area of competence.
Its main task is the preparation of decisions to be taken by ComCom, especially in the area of licensing of telecommunications service providers, number portability, carrier selection and interconnection. Additionally, in the areas delegated to it by ComCom, it grants licences for the provision of telecommunications services and bears the responsibility for supervision and criminal procedures in its area of responsibility.
Furthermore, it handles the parliamentary, Federal Council, departmental and international contracts within its area of technical competence. It draws up and co-ordinates questions and measures related. to the promotion of the Information Society.