Customers in states across the country could be paying for internet speeds that they don’t have in their homes. Some officials in various states are asking those who live in rural areas to test their internet speeds to see if they are getting what’s advertised from their internet providers as this could result in faster speeds in the future and more money for the state to make improvements to internet services. Once the results are collected from internet tests, they will be provided to the property officials who can then decide whether or not funding could increase so that customers can get the internet service that they need for everything from working to communicating with family and friends.
Why Rural Areas?
One reason why officials want rural customers to test their internet speeds is that some companies aren’t able to perform the tests themselves. They aren’t able to gather all of the data that’s needed in order to put together a plan of action. If customers aren’t able to test the speeds that they have, then that would be information that could be used to alert companies as to where connections need to be made first.
When to Test?
While testing throughout the day is an option, customers should try to test their internet speeds during peak hours to try to get the best data possible. This is usually after 5 p.m. and before 9 p.m. This is usually the timeframe for when more people use the internet because they are home from school and work. Data is usually collected through a website that’s set up through the state. Any personal data that’s submitted is protected so that it’s not shared with anyone else. Customers don’t need to submit their name or other details, but they do need to submit their address as this is how officials will know where internet service is faster and where it’s slower.
If customers choose to be involved in the construction of new systems that are part of the infrastructure bill, then they could receive a credit from the state that would take a certain amount off of their monthly bill. Some states have areas that might need millions of dollars in order to get more people in rural areas connected to broadband or satellite internet while some states already have the infrastructure in place to complete the connections that need to be made. Some of the tasks that would need to be completed in these areas include digging trenches to run cables, purchasing the equipment that’s needed, and running all of the lines from internet sources to homes. Since the fibers being used will have a connection that’s open, it can make it easier for more companies to tap into the service in order to provide internet for customers instead of one company having a monopoly over the service in one area.
Owners who live in areas that are considered economically distressed could receive credits if they choose to donate the use of their fiber internet so that others can have access to broadband faster. It’s possible that a few partnerships could develop between providers and county officials after they see where internet service is needed along with several tax incentives that are scheduled to last until sometime in 2022. Those who need assistance with testing their internet speeds can contact county officials or internet providers.
