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Although the Federal Communication Commission’s implementation of Net Neutrality has earned a largely positive response, some were concerned that the move could cause Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to reduce their infrastructure spending. For Americans still waiting for their chance for broadband access, that’s bad news.

 

Is the FCC to blame?

On September 9, FCC Commissioner Ajit Pai spoke at an American Enterprise Institute discussion regarding broadband infrastructure investment. According to Pai, ISP infrastructure spending fell 12 percent in the first half of 2015 compared to the first half of 2014. And Pai blames the reduction in spending directly on Net Neutrality, “It’s the FCC’s decision to capitulate to the President’s demands and impose Title II public utility regulation upon the Internet that is playing a large role.”

Why would an FCC commissioner criticize FCC policy? A five-member commission leads the FCC, and when the organization passed its Net Neutrality policy, it did so by a 3-2 vote. Pai was one of the two commissioners who voted against the measure, so his stance isn’t a reversal: he’s been against Net Neutrality from the beginning and warned of consequences including less innovation and more cost for consumers.

Pai isn’t the only person in a position of power within the government who feels this way. During a hearing titled “Common Carrier Regulation of the Internet: Investment Impacts,” , chair of the House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, expressed his concerns that, though ISPs may continue to invest in broadband improvements, that investment may plateau or decline over time.

 

Is spending bouncing back?

Some evidence suggests that infrastructure spending may be increasing, not decreasing. Time Warner Cable spent an additional 10.1 percent on infrastructure from the third quarter of 2014 to the third quarter of 2015, and AT&T’s spending was also up slightly.

 

Is it just politics?

It’s worth noting that FCC Commissioner Pai and Congressman Walden are Republicans, and Net Neutrality is largely popular among Democrats, including President Obama. This political divide doesn’t automatically make one side right and one side wrong, but it does explain some of the disagreement.

Is it possible that both sets of numbers are correct, and that spending was down for the first half of the year, but up overall after three quarters? Sure. If so, it may be because the FCC voted for Net Neutrality in February, but the rules didn’t go into effect until the end of June. The industry could have been watching and waiting, as AT&T said it would, to see how Net Neutrality played out before committing a significant amount of money to its infrastructure.

But as Congressman Walden pointed out, ISPs aren’t going to stop investing in infrastructure entirely. The only question is whether they would have spent even more in the absence of a Net Neutrality policy.

 

How’s your broadband infrastructure?

America’s broadband infrastructure as a whole is important to everyone, but what should matter most to you is what it looks like in your area. The best way to see the whole picture is to enter your ZIP code below to compare the speeds and prices of the plans available in your area. You may be able to find a faster plan, even if your overall investment in broadband goes down.

 

Internet access is crucial to modern life, but finding the right service can be complicated and confusing. There are lots of different options to choose from, each with their own pros and cons.

While there is no perfect internet plan for everyone, there are options to meet the needs of every lifestyle and every kind of user. To find the best option in your area, check out this side-by-side comparison of two popular types of internet: DSL and fiber.

 

Network Overview

The fundamentals of data transmission are the same for both internet types: information is sent back and forth between the user and the Internet Service Provider (ISP) via a network of wires. However, the type of wires carrying the data and the way signals get transmitted differ from service to service.

DSL

DSL stands for “Digital Subscriber Line,” which essentially means that the service uses copper phone lines to transmit electronic data between your computer and the wider internet.

There are two variants of DSL: ADSL (asymmetric) and SDSL (symmetric). ADSL — the most common connection type for residential setups — allows you to use your telephone line for both landline calls and internet access, while SDSL uses the whole connection for Internet access, resulting in faster upload speeds at the expense of voice services.

It is worth noting that DSL’s electronic signals can degrade as they travel, meaning that service quality may be affected by the distance between the ISP’s hub and the user-end termination point. Further, any electromagnetic interference or damage to phone line infrastructure may cause interruptions in the connection.

Fiber

Fiber-optic internet is currently one of the most advanced internet services available in the United States. Instead of using copper cables to transmit data, fiber-optic cables are made up of ultra-thin glass or plastic strands that carry light instead of electricity. These light pulses transmit messages between your computer and the rest of the world.

Because light can travel quickly through fiber-optic cables, fiber networks can carry substantial amounts of data over long distances without any service degradation. Additionally, because light signals are less affected by power surges, fiber connections don’t generally suffer from interference during electrical events.

 

Equipment Setup

Many people tend to assume that all in-home internet arrangements use the same equipment, regardless of connection type. However, because DSL delivers data via electronic signals while fiber makes use of light waves, the two connections actually require drastically different equipment setups and installation processes.

DSL

DSL follows the model that most internet users are used to: a modem/router combination that transmits and broadcasts internet for both wired and wireless connections throughout the home. Further, because DSL has been around for so long, there are plenty of equipment options, ranging from standard ISP-provided devices to high-end customizable setups. And while it may be more convenient to use the equipment that comes with your service contract, you can save a few dollars each month by buying your own modem or router instead of renting one from your provider.

When it comes to installation, most DSL connections run through already-placed telephone lines, meaning that the service is easy to install and likely won’t require professional help. In fact, many DSL ISPs even supply simple self-installation kits. If you’re hesitant to install your own service, or you have a unique wiring situation in your home, you can also opt for a professional installation — though you may be charged an additional fee.

Fiber

Fiber-optic internet connections do use routers, but that’s where the similarities with DSL end. Because data is delivered via light, traditional modems won’t work with fiber internet. Instead, you’ll need to use a more complex setup — including an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) — to convert the light signals into usable digital data.

Because fiber technology is still young, there aren’t many third-party equipment options, so you’ll have to rely on your fiber ISP to supply you with most of the equipment you need. If you do opt to use your own router, you’ll need to verify that it can handle the speed capacity that your fiber plan advertises.

Due to the more complex installation process, fiber internet is typically set up by a professional. Self-install kits are rare, and they are usually only available for homes that have previously had fiber installed.

 

Connection Speeds

There are few things more frustrating than slow internet speeds — from start-and-stop video streams to choppy Skype calls, download speed makes a huge difference in the way you use the internet. Fortunately, DSL and fiber internet each provide a wide range of speed tiers for different types of users.

DSL

Residential DSL services don’t necessarily have the fastest speeds on the market, but most plans offer enough bandwidth for basic Internet usage. Advertised download speeds usually range from 1 Mbps to 20 Mbps, while upload speeds rarely get above 1 Mbps.

As with most internet connections, you likely won’t receive advertised speeds all the time — several different factors can affect the quality of your connection. For example, because DSL service quality deteriorates over long distances, internet speeds may differ if your home is located far from your provider’s exchange point. DSL is also susceptible to traffic-based slowing during peak usage times, so streaming Netflix on a weekday evening may prove challenging.

Fiber

Fiber-optic internet is the fastest, most reliable Internet available in the United States. Speeds generally stay fairly stable, regardless of regional traffic or distance from the ISP. Additionally, most fiber internet providers boast equal upload and download speeds, and some top-tier fiber plans can range over 1 Gbps.

Those high speeds translate into a lot of connectivity potential — families can stream HD video on multiple devices at once, make seamless video-calls, and play online games without any stuttering or slow buffering. Heavy uploaders also benefit from fiber-optic internet’s equal uploading capacity, and Cloud storage and video uploading are much more effective than they would be on a slower connection.

 

Area availability

Not all providers have access to the same networks. Some regions have limited internet access in general, while others have one or two dominant providers that bear the Internet load of the entire area. As a result of these varied infrastructures, your Internet service options may vary quite a bit.

DSL

DSL is available to roughly 88 percent of the United States, making it one of the most common types of internet available. As DSL connections utilize phone lines to transmit data, most houses will already have the wiring installed and ready to go.

Additionally, because DSL has been around for such a long time, there are a decent number of providers who offer Internet services. Unless you live in a very rural location with little infrastructure, you should be able to get some level of DSL connectivity in your home.

Fiber

Laying down fiber-optic cables can be prohibitively expensive for many ISPs, so only a small portion of the United States currently has access to fiber internet. However, as more users demand faster speeds, fiber technology is starting to gain momentum. So while the United States may still be a far cry from fiber-savvy countries like South Korea, the overwhelmingly positive response toward fiber internet will surely speed up technological advancement in the coming years.

 

Monthly costs

While download speeds and availability are important, price is generally the most important aspect of an internet plan. Though total costs will ultimately vary depending on your location and plan, certain service types — usually the more high-tech or faster options — do tend to cost more than others.

DSL

Because DSL tends to be slower than other types of Internet, it also tends to be cheaper — there are several affordable plans that cost less than $50 per month. Compared to cable and fiber internet, DSL is a great budget option.

If you’re looking for even more affordable services, don’t forget to look at bundled packages. Combining your Internet service with a landline phone plan, for example, can also net you some extra savings.

Fiber

Because fiber uses cutting-edge home internet technology, it is one of the more expensive ways of getting online. If you’re looking for gigabit speeds, for instance, you should expect to pay around $100 or more per month, depending on your provider.

Some fiber providers also offer TV or voice services, so it’s worth checking out the bundles available in your area.

 

The take-away

There’s no objective answer as to which connection type is better than the other — everything boils down to your connectivity needs. If you have a lot of devices connected to the internet, or if you do a lot of bandwidth-heavy processes at home, fiber-optic internet will likely be worth the money. Those who prefer a low-budget option with wide availability and basic functionality will likely prefer a DSL plan.

Whatever your preferences are, you deserve to have an Internet plan that caters to your specific usage patterns. Determine the speed you want and take a look at what’s available in your neighborhood.

Internet is a must-have utility for most renters and homeowners, with most of the population regularly getting online. But as much as consumers rely on having fast internet access, they also want to find the best deal to keep their bills low.

(TWC) is one of the most popular internet providers, offering several affordable cable Internet plans for a variety of needs. If you’re looking for more speed than DSL but a lower price tag than a fiber-optic connection, read on to learn more about TWC’s inexpensive internet options.

What Is TWC’s cheapest package?

Cable Internet from TWC starts at just $14.99 per month for speeds up to 2 Mbps. 2 Mbps is sufficient for light internet use, including web browsing, emailing and minimal music streaming. This speed will take significantly longer to handle large file transfers, video streams, or online gaming.

Will the cheapest package work for me?

If you only use the internet sparingly, the cheapest internet package may suffice. However, it’s not the best option for all consumers. If you’ve recently cut the cord, for example, you won’t be able to enjoy streaming services very easily. Your connection will also exponentially slow down if you have multiple household members using the internet at the same time. So before you opt for the cheapest plan, it’s a good idea to assess exactly what you really need.

Are there better TWC deals?

If you’re only looking for internet, the package that offers both speed and affordability is the Turbo Internet package, which provides speeds up to 20 Mbps for just $44.99 per month for 12 months. That’s 10 times the speed of the lowest package for just three times the price. With that, most users can accomplish what they want online — whether they’re downloading large files, streaming movies or gaming with friends — without worrying about lag or the number of connected users.

 

What if I want cable TV too? 

For an even better deal, bundling multiple services with TWC usually results in substantial savings. The Double Play bundle, for instance, which runs just $114.99 per month for 12 months, offers Internet speeds and cable TV channels that suit most consumer needs. With this package, you get up to 20 Mbps of download speed — just like the Turbo Internet package — and more than 200 cable TV channels and 18,000 On Demand titles.

Even better, the Double Play package also includes DVR capabilities and access to select premium channels like HBO®, Showtime® and Starz® free for 12 months. The savings from the DVR services alone give this plan an edge over other cable and Internet provider offerings. Paired with the additional savings on premium channels, this is one of the better deals on the market.

Time Warner Cable offers plenty of cable Internet and bundled packages. As you make your choice, however, don’t just opt for low prices — check to see which package offers the features you need to comfortably use the Internet at home. And if Time Warner Cable isn’t available in your area, search for another internet provider that offers the service you need.

 

It’s great to have choices; but the more options you have, the more difficult it can be to make a decision. When it comes to the internet, especially, the wide variety of service types and providers can make it hard to know if one kind of connection is better than another.

Whether you’re getting internet service for your home or your business, you need a connection that’s fast, reliable, and affordable. To help you make the best internet choice for your unique needs, we’re breaking down two of the most popular types of internet: cable and fiber-optic.

 

Connection basics

Unlike dial-up connections, cable and fiber internet are both considered “always on” services, meaning that there’s a constant open link to the provider’s service hub. That’s where the similarities end, though, as the network makeups differ significantly between the two connection types.

 

Cable

Cable internet is offered through coaxial cable networks, just like cable TV services. Subscribers can usually choose between purchasing cable internet as a stand-alone product or bundling it with other services, including TV, phone, and even security monitoring, from the same company.

Additionally, cable internet connections are shared among all subscribers within a specified service area — there’s very rarely a designated connection. This can make for some congestion during high-use periods.

 

Fiber

Fiber internet uses fiber-optic cables to deliver internet data. Information is carried via modulated light along a thin glass strand. Each of these lightweight fibers can be as small as a single human hair, and they’re able to deliver digital information over extremely long distances.

Most fiber connections, regardless of whether they terminate at a node in the neighborhood or directly in your home, see significantly less traffic-caused slowing during busy times of day. If you live in a particularly crowded area, fiber will likely be more consistent.

 

Equipment and installation

Both cable and fiber connections rely on a network of wires or fibers to deliver data between subscribers and providers. But the in-home equipment used to transmit that data — and the installation process for that equipment — varies quite a bit.

 

Cable

Cable internet requires a modem that subscribers can lease from the internet Service Provider (ISP) or purchase on their own. Most cable internet comes with specific requirements for modems, so consumers should check for compatibility before buying their own device. The same goes for routers.

In terms of installation, cable customers may have the option to set up their own connection using a self-installation kit provided by the cable company. If a house or apartment hasn’t had cable before, however, the cable company will probably need to set up a time to have the cable line run and installed by a professional. In general, cable installations are usually pretty straightforward and shouldn’t require a large investment of either time or money. Some providers even offer discounts on installation for new customers.

 

Fiber

Fiber connections also require a modem of sorts, but instead of translating electric signals into readable computer data as a traditional modem does, a fiber modem works to translate light signals into readable information. Because fiber technology is newer and more complex than cable technology, your provider will likely require you to rent or purchase a service-specific modem with your fiber plan.

When it comes to installation, most fiber internet connections are set up by a professional. Some companies do offer self-installation options, but it may impact the terms of the service contract. If a new fiber connection doesn’t need to be installed, the setup should be fairly simple. However, if there’s no existing infrastructure at your home or business, it can take up to several weeks for the provider to run lines and install the necessary wiring.

 

Download speeds and usage

When it comes to an internet connection, speed is usually a top priority. Depending on how many people and devices are using internet connection, fast speeds can be a necessity. Fortunately, both cable and fiber connections offer download speeds that are fast enough to accommodate the internet needs of an average household or small business.

 

Cable

Cable internet providers offer speeds that range from 20 Mbps to 250 Mbps. Those speeds are fast enough to keep an average home of casual internet users online around the clock. However, a household of four that wants to be able to surf the internet, update social media, stream videos, and play online games all at once should look for packages at the higher end of those speeds.

 

Fiber

Even though cable internet is fast, fiber is usually faster. Users can get download speeds ranging from 150 to 1000 Mbps from fiber-optic internet. Upload speeds are faster too — usually 65 to 100 Mbps. With speeds that fast, you could stream HD content in multiple rooms at the same time, including online games and movies.

 

Availability and provider options

It might seem like the internet is everywhere, but that’s not actually the case. There are still areas across the country with limited access to internet providers and connections. Depending on where you’re located — i.e., if a given service isn’t available in your area — limited accessibility may eliminate one service option entirely.

 

Cable

Fortunately, cable internet is one of the most widely accessible internet options. If your home or business can receive cable TV, you can probably also access cable internet. You may be somewhat limited in terms of which providers actually offer services to your residence or business, as the current cable industry has effectively drawn up turf boundaries from area to area. Despite this lack of options, though, as long as you live in a populated, non-rural locale, you’ll likely be able to find a plan that meets your basic connectivity needs.

 

Fiber

Fiber is becoming more prevalent, but it isn’t currently available in as many places as cable. Because fiber internet requires the installation of fiber-optic cables, its reach will remain limited until new lines are put in. Luckily, many more providers are exploring fiber offerings as demand for fast speeds grows. Before setting your heart on fiber internet, though, be sure to find out if fiber-optic internet is available in your area.

 

Safety and reliability

Both cable and fiber internet options provide more reliability than other options out there — satellite internet can be fickle about equipment angle, and dial-up connections aren’t functional unless there’s an accessible phone line. However, there are some small differences in terms of overall safety and reliability between the two service types.

 

Cable

In general, cable internet service is considered highly reliable. Just like with cable television, sometimes there are outages due to technical problems or weather interference, but issues are fairly limited. Because of the possibility of an outage, businesses that rely on their internet connection to operate should have a backup in place just in case. Additionally, there is some risk of surges during electrical storms, as coaxial cable is a good electrical conductor.

 

Fiber

Fiber internet is just as reliable as cable, with one distinct difference: Fiber-optic internet is a passive system, which means it doesn’t operate using electric signals. That means that outages are less likely. In addition, because the conductor is glass, it doesn’t generate electricity. Thus, fiber is less vulnerable to interference from high-voltage power lines or equipment, and subscribers can enjoy an added layer of protection against damage from power surges.

 

Price and bundling

No matter what bells and whistles an internet plan promises, money is often the ultimate deciding factor when it comes time to pick a package. Shrewd homeowners and business managers need to provide the best internet connection without blowing the budget out of the water. While pricing for both cable and fiber internet varies based on location and the plan selected, there are some general distinctions you can expect.

 

Cable

Most homes and businesses can find cable internet packages ranging from around $20 to as much as $100, depending on the speeds and any other promotions or offers. As you’re looking at prices, don’t forget to find out about installation fees, as those can add to your upfront costs. Equipment rentals — including modems, routers, and set-top boxes, where applicable — can also run the monthly payment up. Faster speeds tend to cost more, and contract lengths can make a difference as well.

In general, cable is usually an affordable option that can meet the requirements of nearly any budget, but consumers can save even more depending on if their selected plan is bundled with TV or phone packages. Bundles usually end up saving money, so they’re worth looking into.

 

Fiber

Because faster speeds means a bigger bill, it’s no surprise that fiber-optic internet — with its higher speed capacities — is usually more expensive than cable. Most fiber internet plans start around $50, though some stand-alone fiber internet plans can top out over $100 per month. In addition, fiber Internet usually requires extensive installation, which adds to the overall price you’ll pay.

Fiber internet providers also offer contracts and introductory specials and discounts for customers. It may be worthwhile to commit to a two-year contract if it keeps your monthly bill from increasing. In addition, look for promotions that may reduce or completely eliminate the installation and activation fees. Bundles, though often less extensive than cable bundling options, do exist and can help cut costs further.

 

After weighing the benefits and drawbacks of both options, it’s time to make a decision. Determine what’s most important to you, figure out what kinds of speeds make sense for your household or business, and start shopping for providers in your area today. 

Find providers in your area: 

 

Everyone loves a great deal, especially when it comes to monthly services. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) understand this principle, which is why many of them offer free equipment or other perks when you sign up for service. If you’re not sure what perks your current ISP offers, or if you’re shopping for a new ISP altogether, this guide will help you figure out which provider is offering a deal that you simply can’t refuse.

 

XFINITY

You’re probably familiar with some basic XFINITY® offerings, including fast speeds and a rapidly expanding service area, but what you may not know is that every XFINITY customer also has access to an additional service called Internet on the Go. With Internet on the Go, subscribers have free access to over 8 million hotspots nationwide. This extensive coverage, paired with the XFINITY Connect™ app, makes it easy to keep track of appointments and check email away from home.

Another perk is Constant Guard® by XFINITY. All XFINITY Internet customers receive basic online security protection via the Norton™ Security Suite, which provides protection against viruses and spyware. The company also makes it easy to add upgrades to regular monthly bills.

 

Charter Spectrum

Charter Spectrum is one of the only ISPs that provides customers with a free modem across most plan offerings — including bundles. This helps reduce overall monthly costs, as it saves users from paying a rental fee for this necessary equipment.

Another feature that Charter Spectrum offers is month-to-month service. Customers can enjoy reliable, fast Internet without being tied down to a contract. This gives users flexibility and freedom to choose the Internet plan that makes the most sense for them, even if their needs change. In fact, Charter Spectrum is so committed to abolishing contracts that certain new customers may qualify for up to a $500 buyout to help them get out of a current contract with another provider.

 

CenturyLink

All CenturyLink Internet plans include basic protection from CenturyLink @Ease® online security by Norton™. Customers can adjust their level of security coverage and take advantage of the peace of mind that comes with Identity Guard for an additional monthly fee. The company also offers a 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee for new Internet customers, a policy that ensures any user who is not satisfied with their CenturyLink service can cancel within 30 days and receive a credit for all Internet service charges, modem or router charges, shipping fees, activation fees, and any other applicable taxes or other surcharges.

As an added bonus, subscribers can avoid installation fees by opting for CenturyLink’s self-installation kit, which includes everything necessary to get an Internet connection up and running. Plus, customers who order a CenturyLink bundle online may qualify for a prepaid Visa card worth up to $150. The company also offers prepaid Visa cards for customers who refer friends and family members to CenturyLink.

 

Cox

Subscribers enjoy a variety of free services with their Cox High Speed Internet™ plan. The company starts things on the right foot by waiving installation fees, but it doesn’t stop there. Cox gives customers a free Cox email account with Cloud storage, which is protected by free security through the Cox Security Suite powered by McAfee®. The Security Suite also provides antivirus protection and an online app that customers can use to check the security of their home wireless network.

Additionally, Cox gives High Speed Internet subscribers access to Music Choice, a portal that offers a wide selection of music channels, videos, and original programming. Customers can listen to more than 50 pre-made channels or create their own music channels and video playlists.

 

Windstream

Windstream offers its subscribers the ability to sign up for High Speed Internet without the hassle of a long-term contract. Very few other ISPs provide such a winning combination of flexibility and security.

Windstream’s solid plan offerings are backed up by an extensive 24/7 help network. In addition to a large library of online support resources, Windstream also provides real-time assistance via their virtual agent, Wendy. Customers can chat live with Wendy, email questions to support, or call the help line directly at any time, day or night.

 

AT&T

AT&T internet plans include up to 11 email accounts and 2 GB of secure online storage. In addition, AT&T customers have access to AT&T’s extensive network of public Wi-Fi hotspots across the country and internationally. Users can consult the company’s Wi-Fi location map to find hotspots, whether they are close to home or on vacation. This allows customers consistent access to their Internet service and other network resources.

AT&T also offers one particular benefit that most other ISPs don’t: a battery backup. This device will keep customers’ Internet services up and running, even if the power goes out. The backup only extends power for a few hours, but that can be the difference between saving a current project and losing hours of work. For customers who live in areas where severe weather often affects power, this perk could be a lifesaver.

In addition to all of these great perks, several of the above listed companies offer further discounts for subscribers with limited financial means. So no matter what your situation, if you need Internet service, there are ISPs that can provide the benefits you want. Now that you know the kinds of perks that are out there, it’s time to stop browsing and start shopping. Check out providers in your area today.

There’s nothing quite as thrilling as watching the winning shot of a live game or experiencing groundbreaking news as it’s happening. And if you’re already paying an Internet Service Provider (ISP) for an Internet connection, you may be able to stream some of those thrilling live TV moments to any Wi-Fi enabled device.

If you want to watch live TV online, you’ve actually got a few options. However, the method won’t be the same across the board — it depends on the show, the channel, and even your Internet connection. Here’s our roundup of how to stream live TV over the Internet whenever — and wherever — you want.

Sports Channel Subscriptions

Sports fans can pay for a short-term online subscription to favorite sports league games. The MLB, NBA, and NHL all offer packages for viewers to watch live games online. MLB.tv offers streaming of live games, spring training, and archived games. NBA League Pass offers the most customizable selection, including access to a single team, a single game, or just audio streams. And NHL Game Center features extra camera angles and DVR controls. All three leagues, though, have out-of-market restrictions, meaning local, home team games are blacked out — though most of these services still make live audio streams available.

Options for the NFL are among the most limited. The NFL Game Pass includes live game radio broadcasts and playoff games, but live video streams are not available.

Online News Broadcasts

A recent comScore survey found that live news was important to the TV viewing habits of 58 percent of pay TV subscribers and 46 percent of non-pay TV subscribers, making it one of the biggest drivers of TV consumption. While many major news networks require a cable subscription to access live news programs, several media brands offer live streaming for free. With a good ISP, you can watch MSNBC, Bloomberg, CBS News, NewsMaxTV, and HuffPost Live from your computer or smart device. Check your local stations, too. ABC 7 in San Francisco and Fox 5 in New York, for example, offer their news shows streaming during airtime.

Web-Only Channels

Streaming sites like Livestream, Ustream, and YouTube have emerged as popular ways to watch live programming for free, be it a concert, sports event, or entertainment program. Selection and quality of content varies widely. Livestream hosts the BBC and TED Talks channels, UStream hosts the International Space Station and PBS NewsHour channels, and YouTube broadcasts notable political events like presidential debates and speeches.

Cable Online Services

New in 2015, online cable services are changing the cable game. The DISH® subsidiary service Sling TV, for example, combines traditional TV with online streaming, allowing subscribers to start with a basic 20 cable TV channel package, with the option to add more channels for an additional fee. XFINITY® Stream TV offers a similar service, offering local and premium channels to XFINITY Internet subscribers in select areas. Unlike traditional cable, these services require no equipment. Though your options are limited — the initial channel selection is small — these are affordable streaming options. Sling TV starts at a low price of $20 per month, while XFINITY Stream TV starts at $15 per month for XFINITY Internet subscribers.

TV Aggregator Sites

Although no TV aggregator site is perfect, many of them are great for watching a variety of shows and movies from around the globe. While quality is low, content variety is high. Try watching live shows through sites like Live TV Cafe, Live TV Center, and World Wide Internet TV, which are free with the creation of an account.

On Demand Subscription

Watch streaming media of popular television shows through on-demand subscription providers Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, or HBO Go. Most of these services have their own set of critically acclaimed series only available through a subscription: Netflix features the popular shows “Orange is the New Black” and “House of Cards”; Amazon Prime hosts “Transparent” and “Alpha House”; HBO Go is known for “Game of Thrones” and “Girls.” Hulu hosts the most prime time content of any of the on-demand services, though network shows are usually available a day after the initial air date.

Internet and TV Bundles

If you haven’t been able to find your show through any of the other options on this list, consider paying for a bundled cable package. Many ISPs also sell cable television service in bundles, and depending on your Internet and TV bundle provider, many of the same movies and TV channels included in your cable subscription are available for streaming on supported smart devices, too. Using your cable TV login, you can stream your favorite TV shows on your laptop, tablet, or phone. Which channels are available to you online depends on your cable provider and package selection. How-To Geek gives a breakdown of the streaming channels available for each major cable provider.

In 2016, you’re no longer stuck to your couch to watch your favorite TV shows. The Internet gives you the flexibility to stream TV shows and movies from anywhere. Now that you’ve got our guide to viewing TV online, the only thing you need is a good Internet connection. For the best streaming experience, consider upgrading your current Internet package, or bundle cable television with your Internet subscription.

*Pricing and speeds are current as of writing. Pricing and speeds are subject to change. Not all offers available in all areas.

Xfinity offers a wide range of services — including TV, Internet, and Voice. With so many options on the market, and several different bundle packages available, it can be difficult to find the right Internet service for your needs. We’ve broken down some of the most popular Internet-only packages from Xfinity to help you choose the package that’s right for you.

 

Important Terms to Know

Before checking out the various packages that Xfinity offers, it’s a good idea to understand some key terms that are often used when discussing Internet options.

The most important term to know when researching Internet packages is “Mbps,” or megabits per second. Mbps refers to how many megabits of information are transferred per second through any given connection — the higher the number, the faster the connection.

Another important term is “broadband.” Broadband Internet refers to a high-speed connection. It can come in many forms, including DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), cable, fiber optic, and satellite. Xfinity from Comcast offers cable Internet, which transmits data over existing cable television networks through a cable modem.

Got it? Great! Here’s a breakdown of Xfinity’s cable Internet packages, by price.

 

Performance Starter: $29.99/mo

10 Mbps

The Xfinity Performance Starter package offers reliable speeds for light Internet users. With download speeds up to 10 Mbps, households with a single device using the Internet at a time can easily share photos, download music, and shop online.

View Xfinity Plans

 

Performance 25: $39.99/mo

25 Mbps

For just $10 more a month, the Performance 25 package offers twice as much speed as the Performance Starter package, making it a great package for households with two to three devices online at a time. Low to moderate Internet users who need a little more speed and spend more time downloading can share photos, surf the Web, and stream multiple TV shows quickly and reliably.

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Performance: $49.99/mo

75 Mbps

The Xfinity Performance package rounds out the entry-level tier of Xfinity Internet service. This is a great package for moderate to high home Internet users who don’t need to bundle their Internet with other services. Households with two to three devices online can stream multiple TV shows and access millions of hotspots nationwide.

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Blast!®: $49.99/mo

150 Mbps

Blast! is one of Xfinity’s best Internet-only deals for heavy home Internet users: five or more devices online at the same time can stream and download HD videos and transfer large multimedia files simultaneously. The fast, reliable Wi-Fi speeds also allow for multi-player online gaming across multiple screens and access to millions of nationwide hotspots.

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Extreme 250: $149.99/mo

250 Mbps

Xfinity Extreme 250 offers some of the fastest in-home Wi-Fi on the market. Download speeds up to 250 Mbps allow households with five or more online devices to participate in high-bandwidth activities like streaming and online gaming. It offers access to millions of nationwide hotspots and is perfect for people that work from home or rely on their Internet for streaming television, music, and movies.

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XI Gigabit Pro: $299.99/mo

2,000 Mbps

The Xfinity XI Gigabit Pro Internet service is perfect for people that need the fastest Internet speeds possible. Speeds up to 2 GB allow households to download multimedia files in 60 seconds, HD movies in 20 seconds, and full music albums in less than a second.

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All Xfinity Internet packages come with Constant Guard®, which offers protection against identify theft and viruses at no extra cost. They also offer Xfinity Connect, which allows you to connect your smartphone to your Xfinity services.

In addition to internet-only deals , Xfinity offers TV, Internet, and Voice bundled packages for every budget. Check out the options available in your area today to get the best deal that meets your needs.

 

Much like financial audits are an independent, typically third-party review of an organization’s financial records to ensure compliance and accuracy as well as to provide a picture of the overall financial health of the organization, a technology audit serves the same purposes but focuses on the technology used by an organization.

A technology audit may seem like just another laborious process conducted out of necessity or to comply with regulations, but these audits prove beneficial for educators in many ways. A comprehensive technology audit can help you determine whether your current technology plan is effective, assess against national standards, and even help you to advocate for funding in order to meet the goals set forth by your district.

Technology audits have become increasingly relevant in recent years as educational institutions continue to increase technology integration in the classroom. And for those that are behind the curve in adopting the latest educational technology, an audit can be just the resource educators need to convince administrators that upgrades are a worthy investment. To help educators make sense of technology audits and learn how to use these tools to make the case for technology upgrades, we’ve created this in-depth guide packed with useful resources to help you understand technology audits, learn the various reasons why technology audits are necessary, navigate the audit process, and use the findings to your advantage.

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What You’ll Find in This Guide:
-Understanding Technology Audits and Technology Integration Models
-Why You Need a Technology Audit
-Internal Technology Audits and Ongoing Technology Integration Initiatives
-Tools and Examples: Putting Technology Audits to Work

Understanding Technology Audits and Technology Integration Models

The following resources offer information on technology audits, how they’re used, and the various technology integration models that are used in modern education. These resources illustrate how integration models enable educators to achieve growth and explain the various levels of technology integration in today’s classrooms.

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Using the proper technology audit model, schools and districts achieve growth and realize returns on investments including both student achievement and technology assets. This Survivor’s Guide to Technology Audits takes an in-depth look at what educators and administrators can expect from a technology audit and the proper models for achieving growth.

Some models consider technology as belonging to one of three levels: literacy use (teaching about technology), augmentative/integrating use (teaching with technology – whether the use of technology reinforces, augments, or substitutes a traditional teaching approach), and transformative use (teaching through technology – when the activity or learning can only be completed with technology). This simple audit tool can be used within classrooms and in broader applications to monitor the effectiveness of a technology program informally, or in-between formal, independent technology audits.

Another model is Puentadura’s SAMR Model, which considers technology at four levels: Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition. The Substitution Augmentation Modification Redefinition (SAMR) Model is designed to see how technology might impact teaching and learning. This resource explains, “While one might argue over whether an activity can be defined as one level or another, the important concept to grasp here is the level of student engagement. One might well measure progression along these levels by looking at who is asking the important questions. As one moves along the continuum, computer technology becomes more important in the classroom but at the same time becomes more invisibly woven into the demands of good teaching and learning.” Dr. Ruben R. Puentedura’s website includes a variety of other resources related to integrating technology into the classroom, and this resource offers more information on the SAMR model.

Some educators believe that teachers should focus on creating instructional opportunities that target both higher-order cognitive skills (of Bloom’s taxonomy) and also “design tasks that have a significant impact on student outcomes (SAMR).” In this resource, Kathy Schrock explains her views on SAMR and Bloom’s and addresses approaches that incorporate both models.

The use of any technology in an educational setting should improve the process or the outcome. The National Association of Secondary School Principals points out that it’s not better or worse to work at one level over another, but the key is to “connect the tools and processes used with the targeted level.” A technology audit can help educators determine whether their approaches and targets are in line and reveal areas for improvement to better achieve student outcomes.

The Padagogy Wheel by Allan Carrington attempts to clarify the relationship between the big picture elements and how they work together, addressing the fact that many of the failures in education technology are related to the integration of technology. The latest version of this graphic ties various educational technology tools and initiatives to the SAMR model.

Yet another model to consider is the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) Model. The model focuses on the way these three elements “relate to teaching in a technology enhanced learning environment.” Dr. Matthew J. Koehler, editor of TPACK.org, explains this model in more detail in this resource.

Why You Need a Technology Audit

Technology audits are carried out for a variety of purposes, ranging from recognized deficiencies in effort to identify root causes or paths to achieving desired outcomes, to determining whether investments in technology assets are producing ROI and generating data for technology grant proposals and advocacy efforts. The following resources provide information on these and other reasons for conducting a technology audit.

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Technology audits can reveal deeper-seated issues within school districts, allowing both teachers and administrators to work collaboratively towards positive change. For instance, this report discusses how a technology audit in one school district revealed several underlying issues including “access, pressure to cover content for standardized testing, and a strained relationship between the Information Technology department and the faculty.” This knowledge allows school districts to take action to remove barriers to technology implementation.

The goal of a technology audit is improvement. This presentation by Larry S. Anderson, Founder and Director of the National Center for Technology Planning, emphasizes that real leaders welcome a technology audit as an opportunity for improvement; technology exists to support learning and people and must begin on a local level.

There are a multitude of reasons for conducting a technology audit. This article from K12EduBuzz identifies 10 compelling reasons for a technology audit, including assessing your district’s or school’s (or even your classroom’s) technology program against state or national standards, examining the attitudes and perceptions of technology users and measuring their satisfaction with the current technology program, uncovering urgent priorities that should be addressed, and more.

One independent technology audit conducted for the Newberg School District in Oregon revealed nine priorities, one of which was to equitably distribute technology across the district. The audit findings, compounded by a security issue which resulted in the district eliminating a number of older devices from their technology assets, led to the district purchasing 850 new devices and increasing their device-to-student ratio.

Classrooms aiming to achieve the 21st century classroom standard can benefit from a technology audit. An audit can help educators identify visions and goals, as well as to explore the current status of technology and identify what assets and resources are needed to achieve these goals. This article describes the infrastructure, data systems, educational technology resources, and other measures necessary to implement the plan, as well as the importance of professional development.

Technology supports the assessment of complex competencies and is encouraged by the Office of Educational Technology as a means to assess 21st century skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, and creativity. This resource from the Office of Educational Technology takes a look at assessment practices and how technology plays a role in assessment in modern-day education.

Educators and schools sometimes buy into the common misconception that if the right ingredients are present, the desired outcomes will follow. This is not always the case, as BLEgroup points out in this article using the example of 1:1 computing. As this article explains, effective 1:1 computing is really more about educational delivery than about achieving the 1:1 device-to-student ratio. Technology audits offer value in these circumstances, allowing schools and districts to determine whether the ingredients (technology assets) are being used adequately to achieve desired results.

Technology audits provide data that can be utilized for a technology grant proposal. Educators, schools, and districts able to verify their needs with concrete data generally have higher success rates securing grant funding. This presentation from the Capitol Research Education Council (CREC) by Scott Nierendorf, Director of Educational Technology, and David Wu, Director of Information Technology, outlines the process for using a technology audit to align vision with practice.

Internal Technology Audits and Ongoing Technology Integration Initiatives

Technology audits may be conducted by an independent, third-party auditor or internally by team members representing various roles within the school district who serve on an audit committee. These resources offer information on internal technology audits and how internal and external audits may be used cohesively as part of an ongoing initiative to improve technology integration.

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Educational institutions, such as school districts, can at times benefit from employing similar practices as other types of organizations in terms of the use of technology. For instance, some organizations utilize a team member designated as a “Technology Champion,” who leads the internal audit process and tools for an organization. This resource from TeamMate highlights key insights from TeamMate’s 2015 Global Technology Survey, focusing on the role and impact of Technology Champions.

Many school districts employ a technology director. This individual is responsible for turning the results of a technology audit into a comprehensive plan for improvement and growth.

Some school districts utilize independent, third-party technology audits, largely considered the gold standard by educational technology experts. Others choose to utilize internal team members to form committees for internal technology audits, while still others utilize a combination of the two, relying on internal technology audit committees to monitor ongoing use and make recommendations and third-party audits for a true and unbiased evaluation of the district’s progress towards specified technology goals.

Simpler auditing processes can help educators identify shortcomings, needs, and opportunities within an individual classroom. This list of 10 assessment questions can be used to evaluate your classroom’s use of technology and identify areas for improvement.

A quick-and-dirty technology audit enables schools to determine the current per-student spend on technology. While many who perform the calculation described in this resource are surprised to learn how much they spend on technology, this article also discusses methods for improving utilization in order to maximize your investment in technology assets. Several methods for analyzing your use of technology are described in this article from LEARN NC.

Tools and Examples: Putting Technology Audits to Work

The following resources provide tools and concrete examples of technology audits in educational settings, including resources outlining how the results of a technology audit are being used to improve outcomes and achieve goals, specific examples of surveys and how they’re used for technology audits, the use of technology audits to gain insights on specific areas of concern, and resources to enable educators to advocate for improved technology integration in the classroom.

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One school district in Illinois is making learning a more interactive experience and updating its technology infrastructure. Following a technology audit in 2014 that found that schools in Teutopolis Unit 50 were not using technology to its full advantage, an initiative called “Techtopolis” emerged with the goal of better integrating technology into Unit 50 classrooms, with the overall goal being to “make Google Chromebooks available to all Unit 50 students in grades two through 12 by the 2016-17 school year.”

Technology audits typically include surveys and questionnaires sent to and completed by teachers and administrators within the district or area being audited. This resource is an example of a teacher questionnaire used by a third-party auditing organization. Findings from these completed surveys provide auditors with insights into how technology is currently being used within the school, district, or individual classroom, offering a perspective not easily obtained without extensive in-classroom observation.

Independent, third-party auditors may recommend methods for improving utilization and better integrating technology into the classroom in their final reports and recommendations. Additionally, some offer general advice, such as this resource from Marzano Research, an archive of Tips for Teaching with Technology broken down into Beginner, Emerging, and Innovating Tips.

Technology audits often focus on specific questions or points of concern within a school or district. This example of an audit report for Northbridge Public Schools discusses the results of an audit investigating two primary concerns: how the current systems impact student achievement and how effectively the current systems support staff. Findings are discussed in four key areas: infrastructure, staffing, teaching and learning, and leadership.

Rural schools, in particular, may often benefit from a technology audit that can illustrate where rural schools and districts stand in comparison to other districts across the state or nation. This article from The Hechinger Report discusses the digital divide in America’s rural schools and efforts to integrate technology into education. As many as 25 to 30 percent of students in the two-school Colorado district discussed don’t have Internet access at home. The article explains, “It’s not about improving test scores—last year, every single one of Edison’s elementary students was deemed proficient on the state’s math exam. Instead, the goal is to expand the students’ horizons and prepare them for college and the workplace, where technological literacy will no doubt be assumed.”

The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) aims to empower connected learners in a connected world and advocates for the effective technology integration. The ISTE website offers abundant resources for educators and educational leaders who wish to advocate for educational technology within their schools, districts, or states. For instance, this guide to organizing and holding a meeting with a policymaker or staffer aids advocates in making compelling arguments for a technology audit or purchase that will further educational technology goals. The ISTE Journal of Research on Technology in Education (JRTE) is a valuable resource for obtaining the latest research insights on relevant ed tech research from around the world.

Whether you’re working in a rural district that has fallen behind the curve due to accessibility or budget issues or you’re an educator in a bustling urban school district, there are many compelling reasons for technology audits in every classroom, school, and district. As technology continues to become increasingly prevalent in today’s classrooms, making the most efficient use of technology assets and ensuring that desired student outcomes and learning objectives are achieved are top priorities for many districts. Technology audits not only clearly identify areas for improvement, but can offer valuable insights into specific measures that will improve outcomes and provide essential data for building a case for technology

Children are getting online as early as age 3, despite growing concerns about the effects of cyber bullying on kids. They also view mature content and spend twice as long online as their parents realize, meaning you might not be monitoring your children’s online habits as much as you should. Depending on their age and maturity, it might be wise to keep track of your children’s Internet habits and consider delaying access to the online world.

Kids Are No Longer Sheltered
A study by the security firm Bullguard found children are maturing at faster rates than ever before — and 77 percent of parents feel the Internet and social media are to blame for causing kids to grow up faster than previous generations. Despite their belief that the Internet is damaging children’s psyches, 70 percent of the parents surveyed indicated they allow their children to browse the Internet unsupervised.

Adults admitted to feeling pressured by their kids to purchase new technology and said a majority of their children owned a cellphone by age 10. In what seems like an odd contradiction, the same group of parents said they wouldn’t allow their child to have an email account until age 11. But tech-savvy children know how to create an email account — and that you can easily get away with using a fake name and age.

When asked, children disclosed they were online viewing websites and videos on self-harm, pornography, and eating disorders, with two-thirds of them saying they had negative experiences online, though very few parents were aware of these negative experiences. More than a quarter of the children surveyed said they were lying about their age to access restricted sites.

Not only are American kids becoming Internet-savvy at young ages, but it’s an international problem, too. A study of Internet use in China found similar problems overseas. Kids were using the Internet two years earlier than they had been in 2010, many of them to find games and music. The abundance of time spent online has also led to problems in school, with many studies reporting that children who are in front of the computer for long periods have trouble focusing on activities that require concentration.

Experts Say Supervision is Vital
Safekids.com says children can benefit from Internet exposure as early as age 3 as long as parents are present and in control. There are websites that offer courses in vocabulary and math, others that offer reading exercises, and some that even contain printable coloring pages for your little one. Funbrain.com contains all of these and more and is a great resource for younger kids to learn while also having fun online. Safekids also offers guidelines for appropriate online behavior for specific age groups.

The site claims children between 4 and 7 could benefit from a little freedom online by helping to increase their sense of independence but that you should still limit access to sites you feel are appropriate for your child. As children get older you should encourage them to explore on their own to help them develop a sense of autonomy, but consider placing the computer in a family room if you haven’t already done so. Children might be less inclined to view inappropriate websites in an area where Mom or Dad might walk through at any moment. If they don’t already have one, help your child set up an email account so they’ll be less likely to set one up on their own that you’re unaware of.

As they enter the teen years, children will begin to show an interest in online chatting and social media, so it’s important to help your child understand the dangers of giving out personal information. Teens are also most susceptible to peer pressure and stumbling upon inappropriate content online, so it’s important to have an open discussion with them about the threats found on the Internet.

If you’re not careful, your child’s browsing skills could surpass yours, and you might have trouble keeping up. Put strict controls and filters on Internet access when your children are young and gradually expand access as they get older. Just remember to speak with your children about the potential dangers and encourage them to come to you with any problems.

With wireless phones dominating communication, you might be asking yourself if you still need a home phone. Well, it might not be a necessity, but there are plenty of reasons a landline is good to have around. If you’re thinking about ditching that landline and sticking with using just your cell, here are nine reasons you might want to reconsider.

1. Better Emergency Access
Your home phone is a better tool for contacting 911 in an emergency. When you call from a landline, emergency dispatchers can see your home address and know where to find you, which you can’t do with a cell phone. This could be life-saving if you’re in a position where you’re unable to communicate clearly and emergency services need to find you. A cell phone might have your address associated with it, but there’s no way to immediately identify where you’re calling from when you use it.

2. Avoid Power Problems
When a power or system outage occurs, your cell phone service could go down with it. Landlines, however, operate through the use of copper cables and are self-powering. Even in an emergency, your landline can still work, whereas you can’t charge a cell phone without electricity.

3. Clearer Signals
Cell phones automatically compress data when they have a weak connection to their towers. This tends to lead to poor connections and dropped calls. Landlines that use copper wiring don’t have this problem. If you live in an area where cell phone reception is spotty, it’s always a good idea to have an extra line in your home you know will always have a signal.

4. Easily Separate Business and Personal
Research continues to show that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential to happy living. One way to do this is to separate your work phone and personal phone entirely. Having a phone in your house exclusively for family and friends is a great way to shut out work while you’re at home. You can use your cell phone for business calls and trading a few texts now and then.

5. You Have an Existing Phone Number
You’ve likely had a landline for quite a while and all of the important people in your life have your number memorized. You can, occasionally, have your landline number ported to a cell phone if needed, but it takes time and you probably have a cell phone number anyway.

6. It’s Backup
What happens if your cell phone breaks or you find yourself unable to pay your bill? Once your carrier cancels your service, people will still want to contact you. A landline provides an affordable backup in case of emergency or a loss of your mobile service. Because landlines are generally less expensive than cell phone service, you’ll have an easier time paying your bill.

7. Saves Money
Believe it or not, having a landline can save you money. That’s because some companies offer discounts to people who are willing to bundle their Internet, phone, and cable services. If you already have a phone line bundled in with your service, your bill could go up if you cancel it, especially if you signed up when your provider was offering a discount. If you’re looking to set up DSL Internet in your home, check out local bundles offered in your area for good deals.

8. No Problem Finding a Landline
Cell phones are easy to lose. They’re small, unplugged, and can fall out of your pocket and into the couch cushions without you even realizing it. A landline is always there when you need it, hung up on the wall or sitting on the table. If you’re in a hurry, why waste time searching for a lost smartphone when you can head straight to your trusty landline?

9. No One Can Force You to Upgrade
Cell phone providers seem to always be coming up with new features and phones, which phase out the older models. Getting an upgraded cell phone can be expensive, but this is something you don’t have to worry about with a landline. You likely won’t be updating your house phone unless something happens to it. Even then, these landline phones aren’t very expensive to replace.

Whether your Internet provider requires you to have a landline or not, you can see there are plenty of good reasons to keep that home phone. They’re more reliable than cell phones, less expensive, and can help you in an emergency.

Photo Credit: Tim G Photography/Flikr

For many consumers in rural America, the lack of available broadband Internet access has to be frustrating. In some parts of the world, though, consumers actually have a right to broadband, or Internet access in general.

The United Nations declared in 2011 that broadband Internet access is a human right. In Finland, Greece, Estonia, and other countries, it’s a civil right: the difference is that governments grant civil rights, but can only protect human rights, those granted to us by nature or our creator, depending on your beliefs. Not that those laws and declarations really matter in America: European laws have no power here, and U.N. resolutions are really nothing more than suggestions.

Vint Cerf, considered the father of the Internet, wrote, “Technology is an enabler of rights, not a right itself.” In his view, Internet access merely bolsters First Amendment rights, as we can use Twitter to speak freely, create White House petitions for redress of grievances, and peacefully assemble in online chat rooms. But none of those abilities make access itself a basic right.

What if…

What does it actually mean if Internet access is a right? Does it mean that the government is prohibited from restricting access? That’s something many in this country might support. We’d probably be upset if our government blocked access to media like radio, T.V., and newspapers. And it was troubling, as Cerf noted, when Egypt blocked Internet access completely during the Arab Spring uprising in 2011 in an attempt to prevent information from coming in or out.

Does it mean that the government can force ISPs to provide a certain level of speed to all customers, regardless of cost? That’s the proposal from British government official George Osborne, the Chancellor of the Exchequer and Second Lord of the Treasury. If he gets his way, consumers would have a legal right to demand at least 5 mbps capable service, and later, 100 Mbps. Consumers would still have to pay for it, but providers would be required to make it available.

Or does it mean that the government actually has to pay for or provide that access? Actually, depending on how you look at it, we may already be at that point. The U.S. government is already spending money to expand broadband access to rural portions of the country. Calling this expanded offering the granting of a “right” may be wrong, but before long, our government will likely be providing broadband Internet access to some consumers at reduced rates, or for free.

We Hope You Like Acronyms

The next time you open your phone bill, look for the “Universal Connectivity Fee” (UCF) charge. That fee is part of the Universal Service Fund (USF) program that’s been around since the dawn of the FCC in 1934. The purpose of the USF is to help make sure that low-income Americans and those in rural areas have the same access to phone service as wealthy urbanites. Technically, long-distance phone carriers pay that charge to local phone providers, a process referred to as intercarrier compensation (ICC), but they typically pass it on to consumers.

The Lifeline program provides service to low-income consumers, and in 2005, it expanded to offer low-cost wireless access in addition to landline service. Another program, the Connect America Fund, subsidized the cost of connecting rural Americans to the phone grid so that their rates would be similar to those living in cities. In past decades, the expense of stringing phone lines meant that service was slow to reach rural areas, just as the cost of laying fiber means broadband is slow to reach rural areas today. Money from the UCF pays for these two programs, along with the E-Rate program and the Rural Health Care Support program.

Expanding the USF

Nearly 20 years ago, congress passed the Telecommunications Act of 1996. This law expanded the concept of universal service to include Internet access, so in principle at least, the government has been willing to pay for or subsidize Internet access for some time now. And in 2009, the FCC announced its National Broadband Plan to “modernize and refocus USF and ICC to make affordable broadband available to all Americans… with voice ultimately one of many applications running over fixed and mobile broadband networks.”

Part of that plan is already in motion. The FCC’s Connect America Fund, paid for through the USF, is spending $100 million to figure out how to improve rural broadband access. However, taxpayers shouldn’t have to foot the whole bill, as additional funding will come from “incentive-based, market driven policies” to help extend 3G and 4G wireless networks into currently unserved or underserved areas.

Get Your Money’s Worth

As you’re already paying to help expand America’s access to broadband, why don’t you expand it into your own home? Maybe that’s your right, and maybe it’s your privilege, but a faster connection will definitely be your pleasure.

 

The Internet makes it simple to stay in touch with relatives, no matter where they live. You can Skype with cousins across the country on a daily basis or get Facebook updates about every aspect of your grandma’s life. But has this constant connectivity had an impact on the way we interact with our families?

Parents Lack Self-Control

Parents and social media can sometimes be a terrible combination. The rise of “sharenting” involves parents documenting the lives of their children on sites like Facebook. A recent study showed this could lead to complications. Parents are inadvertently creating digital identities for their children before the kids ever get on a computer.

The study reports that 70 percent of parents say they get advice from other parents online. In particular, the study cited instances of parents divulging their children’s behavioral issues online. It claims this leads to embarrassment for the kids when they get older, as other children access this information and use it for bullying.

In the case of younger children, some parents have resorted to “shaming” their children online to get them to listen, which many psychologists see as damaging to kids’ self-esteem and family relationships.

Loss of Trust

At least one study has shown that mobile devices and Internet connectivity has led to a loss of trust and intimacy. The lack of face-to-face interaction causes family and friends to lose their sense of empathy. While many people might see kids today as too engulfed in their mobile devices, many children claim their parents are the one spending too much time on them.

Children in the study claimed they felt their parents were no longer interested in paying attention to them. Forty-eight percent of people say they feel ignored due to another family member’s constant Internet use. Ninety-two percent said they felt ignored due to family members spending too much time on a mobile device.

They see a lack of empathy from their parents. The same study claims the lack of interpersonal connection and interaction makes kids feel intimidated when trying to talk to their parents and other adults.

Conversely, one study found that teen are now more “hyper connected” to their parents than ever before. Researchers found children were contacting their parents at least 13 times a week through Internet-capable technology.

Research indicated parents are buying their children cell phones at early ages to keep in touch with them. Some even go so far as to track their kids with GPS.

Blurred Boundaries Between Work and Home

Polls have indicated 41 percent of employed individuals are required to maintain contact with work outside of the office. Another 56 percent have done work while on vacation with the family. The Internet has blurred the boundaries between work and home life, sometimes affecting relationships between family members.

With constant access to email people often feel obligated to be on-call, limiting the time we have to bond with our families. It’s not unusual to see mom or dad whip out the cellphone in between scooping up spaghetti these days.

One study showed 45 percent of participants felt Internet access greatly increased their contact with family members. On the other hand, 51 percent it had no effect on their contact with family at all.

Of course, the Internet isn’t perfect and how we react to it will differ from family to family. For some, it’s a tool that has allowed us to become closer to our relatives while, for others, it’s only driven them further apart. The Internet makes communication between family members easier than ever, as long as that communication is happening online it would seem.

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