The Obstacles Preventing Access to Broadband Internet in Rural America
As much as we would like to think that everyone in America has the same level of access to the Internet, certain regions, such as rural communities, have been underserved for as long as they can remember. A 2018 Federal Communications Commission (FCC) report showed that millions of rural households did not have access to a reliable broadband Internet connection, which the FCC defines as an Internet connection with a download speed of 25 megabits per second (Mbps) and an upload speed of 3 Mbps. Without access to reliable broadband Internet for rural areas, rural residents have experienced disruptions to essential daily activities such as communication, business, and education.
These disruptions are often the result of a few common obstacles that have prevented mainstream Internet service providers from seeing rural regions as lucrative markets. First, because of the lack of adequate infrastructure for broadband Internet access in areas with low population density, ISPs would have to install and maintain new infrastructure, which would lead to a low return on investment. Also, common geographical features such as valleys, mountains, and vegetation can make it difficult to install broadband infrastructure in rural areas.
Instead of broadband Internet, rural residents rely on alternative rural Internet service providers such as the unlimited 4G rural Internet provider UbiFi. UbiFi and other mobile 4G Internet companies use the 4G cell towers throughout rural America to provide high-speed Internet access to rural households. In addition to companies like UbiFi, rural residents can also sign up for satellite Internet, which can reach highly remote areas. Whether you choose mobile or satellite Internet, be sure to do research on all available options and choose the best one for your specific needs.
