The Federal Communications Commission said in a report released Thursday (Sept. 9) that "the United States is making substantial progress in closing the gaps in access for traditionally underserved areas. Those in rural areas, those with low incomes, and those with disabilities ¡ª who stand in particular need of advanced services ¡ª are finding advanced services more available."

Broadband deployment is also being boosted by wireless network technologies like Wi-Fi access hotspots, WiMax and satellite services, the FCC said, along with cable modems and DSL.

Among the report's findings are a tripling in Internet subcriptions at bidirectional speeds (exceeding 200 Kbits/s or greater) to 20.3 million lines over two years ending in December 2003. The report also said only 6.8 percent of U.S. zip codes reported no high-speed lines.

Overall, the FCC said high-speed connections grew 60 percent last year.

The FCC report was mandated by the 1996 telecommunications law, which directed the federal agency and states to encourage deployment of broadband services.

The conclusions are controversial on several grounds. First, industry has been lobbying hard ¡ª with mixed success ¡ª for government policies that would accelerate broadband deployment. Second, consumer groups remain skeptical that the FCC and the industries it regulates are doing enough to expand broadband services to less profitable rural and inner city customers.

By: DocMemory
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