FCC raises standards for labeling internet services as ‘broadband’

In a sudden but notable move, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has quadrupled the minimum download speed required for Internet service to be called “broadband.” This is the first time the FCC’s internet speed regulations have changed since 2015. The new standard aims for 100Mbps for downloads and 20Mbps for uploads.

FCC internet speed regulations require the “broadband” label to be for download speeds of 100Mbps only

This follows the FCC’s annual high-speed internet review, which highlighted the need for improved connectivity nationwide. But the report shows that broadband adoption remains inadequate, especially in rural and tribal areas where millions of Americans lack access to quality, high-speed internet.

Additionally, as identified by TheVerge (via an official FCC report), approximately 24 million Americans still lack fixed terrestrial broadband service, with many rural and tribal populations making up a significant portion of the population. occupied. Additionally, approximately 9 percent of all Americans do not have sufficient 5G cell phone speeds, including higher percentages in remote areas without tribal governments.

Looking to the future, the Federal Communications Commission envisions achieving download speeds of 1Gbps and upload speeds of 500Mbps as long-term goals. This ambitious goal provides a common goal for stakeholders and signals possible future revisions to broadband standards.

FCC aims to improve US internet quality by dialing up thresholds

The decision to increase broadband speed requirements to improve services is aimed at forcing internet service providers (ISPs) to act.The Federal Communications Commission cannot force speed upgrades, but it can prohibit ISPs from branding their services as “broadband” unless they meet a new threshold.

The legislation also affirms the FCC’s commitment to providing quality internet service to all Americans, following efforts by the Biden administration. Still, their effectiveness depends on whether ISPs find it possible to follow these policies in order to provide more reliable and faster connections to their customers. Faster internet doesn’t necessarily mean a more reliable connection, and one often comes at the expense of the other.

March 15, 2024