Internet access in America is a major issue right now. While it may not seem like it if you live in a high speed broadband area, the reality is there are tons of problems with internet service in America today. Internet access is terrible for a number of reasons:

1 Cost Plays a Major Factor

Customers continue to voice displeasure over high Internet costs. Equipment charges, installation fees and monthly billing easily stretch exhausted budgets to their breaking point. In 2010, authorities at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) attempted to develop more affordable solutions with the assistance of Internet providers [http://money.cnn.com/2010/03/16/technology/fcc_broadband/index.htm]. The solution never arrived, and over 35 percent of Americans still indicate that cost is a major hurdle in obtaining Internet service.

2 Slow Connections are the Kiss of Death

Other countries have faster Internet speeds than the U.S. Some folks endure slightly longer information load times, but services simply may not be available to customers in remote and rural areas. Customers suffering from slow connection speeds tend to abandon browsing faster and cannot enjoy all available Internet features, including telephone and television services. Many customers feel that the Internet is not worth the hassle if they cannot utilize everything offered.

3 America is not Wired Properly

The Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) found that the U.S. was not properly equipped to deliver proper Internet services to all residents. According to the latest data, America is now in 26th for internet speed, down from 15th in 2006 and from  4th place just five years prior in 2001. Americans continue to remain in broadband limbo, with Asian and European countries blazing by in accessibility rates.

Image by Bruno Girin

4 There is no Competition Here

Competition is an additional factor causing grief among potential Internet customers. A Scientific American article explained that Japan and Britain were examples of countries that encourage competition among providers. Larger companies sell services to multiple independent retailers, making them earn customer markets. Americans normally have one or two local Internet suppliers who are fully aware of their monopoly-like grip on the community.

5 Internet Control Went Global

In 2006, the U.S. gave up primary control of the Internet. Some may not perceive this as significant, but it means a lot for citizens hoping to obtain services. Once the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) took control, the Internet started to develop on a more global scale instead of focusing on U.S. interests. It is no small coincidence that, immediately following the transfer, Americans experienced a significant drop in Internet accessibility.

6 Some Folks Still Do Not Understand Internet Services

In some parts of the United States, there are those who still do not understand the Internet’s true importance. The speed of information and knowledge is now vital, internet speed has a large economic impact, making online access invaluable. Unfortunately, individuals situated in areas deemed “low interest” by providers may be unfairly penalized and not have access to required services, crippling their local economy.

The US is falling, farther and farther behind in the internet speed race.  Considering how important computers are in everyday life, every citizen should have proper access. Only time will tell if providers in America will step up before our access falls too far behind.

About the author: Gerad is an internet speed advocate and works for SatlliteBroadbandInternet.org, a provider of high speed satellite broadband internet.

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