Today is World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD)!
The purpose of this day is to raise global awareness of social changes brought about by the Internet and new technologies. It also aims to help reduce the global digital divide, which understandably explains this year’s theme; “Empowering the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) Through Information and Communication Technologies.” LDCs are an untapped resource needing funding and social investments so that they can equitably harness the power of technology.
While the spotlight is on underdeveloped nations, even in the United States about 14% of households do not have access to the Internet, according to a 2021 report by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). This digital divide disproportionately affects low-income households, rural communities, and people of color. In 2022 NTIA awarded $304 million in funding to each state, for planning how to best deploy networks to connect everyone in America to affordable, reliable, high-speed Internet service. This historic influx of funding to expand high-speed Internet service is thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. These planning grants awarded in 2022 are down payments, allowing each state to use the billions in broadband funding at their discretion.
This funding should prioritize automation, which can help simplify the deployment of connectivity solutions, such as fixed wireless access or satellite internet, in areas where traditional wired infrastructure is challenging to implement. Automated processes can enable faster installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of these alternative connectivity options. By leveraging virtualization and software-defined networking, telecom companies can automate the provisioning and management of network functions. This enables dynamic allocation of resources, scalability, and agility in delivering services, especially in remote or underserved areas.
Funding alone is not enough to address technology disparities. At IQ Wired, we’re committed to helping our local and global communities navigate the complex landscape of digital connectivity and find the solutions needed to promote growth and establish prosperity for generations to come. Contact us today to learn more!