Mobile broadband is set to be a major revenue generator over the next couple of years for mobile operators, thanks to a combination of increasing laptop and netbook sales and improved coverage of HSPA networks, according to the latest report from IDC.

The market research firm says four factors have been key to the rapid adoption of mobile broadband by European consumers.

It found that the upgrading of 3G networks to HSPA, the availability of small USB devices, the falling price of subscriptions and the rise of laptop and netbook sales had been key to increased penetration.

It added that over the next couple of years, network operators were likely to become more reliant on the revenues from mobile broadband services – something that was closer related to its core services than other key revenue streams such as gaming and mobile TV.

"Mobile broadband presents a big land-grab opportunity, both now and for several years to come," commented IDC's European director of consumer mobile research, John Delaney. "Although the service is simple in concept, its role in the consumer services market is complex."