FCC Broadband Report: Speed Matters!
The FCC’s fifth “Measuring Broadband America” report is out, and it confirms what we already know: when given a choice, consumers want fast Internet service. In fact, in 2014, the most popular Internet packages averaged 72 Mbps downstream, almost twice as fast as the most popular packages purchased the year before.
Cable and fiber broadband are leading the speed race, according to the report. The most popular speed tier for cable subscribers went from 12-30 Mbps in 2013 to 50-105 Mbps in 2014. For fiber broadband subscribers, the most popular speed tier is 75 Mbps. But DSL customers are stuck in the slow lane, with speeds stagnating at 3-6 Mbps.
“Today’s report confirms that advances in network technology are yielding significant improvements in broadband speeds and quality,” said FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler. “Faster, better broadband will unleash new innovations and new services to improve the lives of the American people. This comprehensive assessment of broadband performance helps to keep consumers informed and hold ISPs accountable.”
Measuring Broadband America 2015 (FCC, Dec. 30, 2015)
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