Purdue University has launched a statewide Purdue Broadband Team. The team needs your participation across the state to create, and validate data so that funding can be procured to provide statewide connectivity and for some families, affordable internet at home.
The federal government, in partnership with states, is deploying broadband funds through the Broadband Equity, Adoption and Deployment program also known as BEAD. Indiana is receiving close to $870 million. A map compiled by the FCC will dictate where these funds go. So, we need to make sure Indiana’s map is as accurate as possible.
Part of the reason this map is being updated is because broadband data is very muddy. In the past, the FCC compiled data from providers that report where they offer service, with what technology, and their maximum advertised download and upload speeds. However, because this data is provider self-reported and not validated by consumers it can overestimate broadband availability. This time around, they are asking for your help to make sure the data reported by providers is accurate at the address level.
Another wrinkle to consider is that beyond internet service being available, is the issue of reliability and quality of service. One way to measure this is through speed tests. A speed test calculates your download and upload speeds (again, measured in Mbps). If your internet connection consistently delivers speed tests below what the provider says it is providing, there may be some quality issues. This in turn may make your address eligible for funds to build more high-quality internet service. You can see what service you subscribed to by checking out your internet bill. To conduct a speed test on your existing service or to report an address with no service, please visit: pcrd.purdue.edu/speedtest
And remember, speed tests are free so please complete as many as possible, as frequently as possible! The more data there is on your internet service, the better!
In addition to having access to adequate internet, another issue is adoption. Many times, internet is available, but folks do not subscribe because they may not be able to afford it. Fortunately, there is a program in place called the Affordable Connectivity Program that provides $30 per month to eligible homes ($75 in qualifying tribal lands and high-cost areas).
Visit www.fcc.gov/acp for more information and for instructions on how to enroll.
What is broadband?
It is defined by the Federal Communications Commission as an internet connection that is always on and faster than dial-up.
Why is broadband important?
As the society and economy continue to digitize, being on the wrong side of the digital divide affects your quality of life and competitiveness.
Do I have broadband?
Different broadband technologies result in different speeds. You are considered unserved if your broadband service is not at least 25 megabits per second download and 3 Mbps upload, or 25/3 for short. You are considered underserved if you have at least 25/3 Mbps but not 100/20 Mbps or higher. Note: satellite service and cellular data, regardless of speed, are not considered broadband for this program.
To learn more, and see how you help the Purdue Broadband Team, contact Tricia Herr at the Montgomery County Extension Office. triciaherr@purdue.edu or 765-364-6363.
