Washington state works toward secure, reliable internet for everyone

In today’s digital age, reliable internet has become an indispensable part of daily life, enabling communication, commerce, education, and entertainment. As society becomes increasingly interconnected, and in some ways automated, the value of a quality, secure internet connection cannot be overstated.

Because the internet is so intertwined with everything from personal activities to business operations, the Washington State Department of Commerce, Broadband Office, and Office of Equity have set a goal of providing all residents access to high-speed broadband – 150 Megabits per second download and upload – by 2028. It aligns with a federal bipartisan infrastructure law signed in 2021 that targets categories such as technology, water, clean energy, transportation, and more in an effort to level the playing field for individuals and families across America.

When devising the Internet For All plan, state decision makers identified that the following demographics were disadvantaged when it comes to reliable internet access:

• Low-income households
• Aging individuals
• Veterans
• Persons of color, indigenous persons, and Native Americans
• Religious and ethnic minorities
• Women
• LGBTQIA+ persons
• Persons with disabilities
• People who do not speak English as their first language
• Rural communities
• Incarcerated individuals

These decision makers were able to boil down the reasons for the disadvantages to three factors:

1. Access: The ability to find reliable and secure internet options within your place of residence. There could be no viable options, several poor options, or a monopoly by one internet company.

2. Affordability: The cost of reliable and secure internet options, which could be too high based on income level or the costs of other needs where a person or family lives.

3. Digital literacy: The ability to understand the devices and technology necessary to achieve a reliable internet connection.

Regardless of what is holding people back from having the internet they need and deserve, there are so many reasons why Washington state and the entire country are dedicating funding toward this issue.

Common internet use cases

1. Communication: Email, instant messaging, and video calls connect people globally, facilitating personal and professional interactions.

2. Commerce: E-commerce platforms and online banking have revolutionized the way we shop and manage finances.

3. Education: Online courses, virtual classrooms, and digital libraries provide access to knowledge and learning opportunities.

4. Healthcare: Telemedicine and electronic health records improve patient care and streamline medical processes.

5. Entertainment: Streaming services, online gaming, and social media offer diverse forms of leisure and content consumption.

6. Smart homes: IoT devices, including smart thermostats, security cameras, and home assistants, enhance convenience and security.

7. Remote work: Virtual collaboration tools and cloud services enable remote working, increasing flexibility and productivity.

8. Public services: Government websites and online portals provide access to vital services and information.

The value of a secure and reliable internet is undeniable, but so is the digital divide that prevents certain groups from accessing it and keeping pace with society’s evolution.

You can learn more about Washington state’s plans to bridge the gap and provide reliable internet to all by clicking here. You can also participate in listening sessions during which the public can offer insights and feedback about internet availability and usage. Finally, you can feel free to email [email protected] to get more information or to communicate your feedback.