The FCC's 25Mbps broadband standard seemed fast in 2015, but that was seven years ago, and the agency's current leadership thinks it's time to raise that baseline. The minimum definition of broadband should be raised to 100mbps for downloads and 20mbps for uploads. The old benchmark hides how many low-income and rural internet users are being left behind.
The chair said there were multiple pieces of evidence that supported the hike. The definition of broadband will be affected by the FCC's proposal to upgrade rural speeds through a special program.
The minimum speed needed to evolve over time as well. She wanted to set a higher standard of 1Gbps down and 500Mbps up. Adoption rates, affordability, availability and equitable access are some of the additional criteria suggested by the leader.
The standards change may not move forward. The current commission is made up of two Democrats and two Republics, and any proposed upgrade would need a vote. There is no guarantee that she will get her way as the Senate has done little to advance the nominee. Telecoms may not be happy. In order for carriers to reach the 100Mbps minimum in some areas, they will have to invest in better networks.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
