The FCC ultimately decided that 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload are not considered « broadband » speeds.

In the ever-changing digital world, the definition of broadband has had a makeover; a step forward that resonates as an echo of the forward-thinking vision of the FCC’s Jessica Rosenworcel. Nine years ago, this commissioner called for an in-depth review of internet speed standards, suggesting that anything below 100 megabits per second for downloading not only harmed the education of our children but also hindered the development of our digital economy. Today, what seemed like an ambitious dream is finally coming to fruition.

The FCC, in a watershed moment, revised its broadband classification, raising the requirements to 100Mbps for downloading and 20Mbps for sending. This update breaks from the previous standard of 25 Mbps/3 Mbps established in 2015, marking a significant step towards adopting higher standards to meet the needs of an increasingly connected world.

The move comes after a period where, even in 2021, figures such as Ajit Pai, former FCC chairman, argued that current needs did not justify an increase in basic broadband speeds. However, with this update, the FCC adopts a posture that seems to affirm the opposite, thus recognizing the importance of adapting to the rapid evolution of Internet technologies and uses.

The new definition of broadband is not just a change in numbers. It represents a crucial issue for the FCC, allowing it to better assess its performance in deploying internet access and identify where additional investments or regulations are needed to bridge the digital divide. With this in mind, the modernization of broadband criteria proves to be an essential lever to ensure that more homes and businesses benefit from a fast and reliable internet connection, conducive to the development of a digital society inclusive and dynamic.

The FCC’s evolving definition of broadband is a strong testament to the need to periodically review our standards to ensure they reflect the current needs of our society. It’s a reminder that in the digital world, remaining static is tantamount to going backwards. By looking to the future with ambition and adopting higher standards, we are paving the way for innovations that will shape the way we live, learn and interact in the years to come.