Broadband Indispensable Among U.S. Businesses

Broadband access has become an essential prerequisite for businesses of all sizes in the United States, connecting businesses with product suppliers, market research, and online advertising.

In a recent survey of Internet adoption, the FCC, in partnership with Princeton Survey Research Associates International, found that of 3,056 businesses, 95 percent had some type of broadband connection in 2009.

Broadband access was broken down by specific connection type:

For businesses with only one office or location, DSL-enabled phone lines are the most popular means for connecting to the Internet, with 57 percent of all businesses with one location reporting this type of connection. The next most likely type of broadband connection for businesses of all size with one location was a cable modem, with 34 percent reporting this type of connection, followed by a mobile broadband connection (23 percent).

Though broadband penetration among businesses is incredibly high, many businesses still suffer the same knowledge pitfalls as residential customers. When asked about their connection speeds, 54 percent of businesses replied that they just "don't know."

As broadband adoption spreads, it is critical that consumers and businesses alike are knowledgeable about their connection speeds. With the Speed Matters Internet Speed Test individuals across the country can see how they measure up in terms of their download and upload speeds, and pursue smarter broadband options in the future.

Business Broadband Capability Survey Results November 2010: Summary of Results (FCC)

Speed Matters Internet Speed Test