Broadband everywhere?
According the Federal Communications Commission, there are 12 broadband service providers for my home zipcode.
I found that out from Broadband Census, a new Web site I wrote about today that is taking a grassroots look at where broadband services are available today in the U.S. and how much choice U.S. consumers really have.
I know I’m fortunate enough to live in an area with more choice than most — in addition to AT&T, we have both Comcast and RCN in my little village, and all three have triple play bundles for sale.
But 12 service providers? I don’t think so.
In the pre-bubble days, there were DSL companies such as NorthPoint Communications and RhythmsNet Connections, who installed DSLAMs at the Central Office in downtown Skokie, where I live. Of that crowd, however, only Covad Communications still exists, and even they are dependent on leasing the last mile from AT&T. Qwest Communications once offered business service there, as did Verio, but those were pricey ($150 a month and up) and not aimed at consumers. They also depended on leasing the last line from AT&T.
Given the direction the FCC is moving on competition, will that kind of access be assured, or make economic sense?
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February 6th, 2008 at 10:32 pm
And look at how the FCC still defines broadband and measures by zip code, even if a small corner of the zip is covered.
February 8th, 2008 at 5:45 am
I have just the opposite problem from Carol.
Your ZIP code05672: STOWE, VT
The government says you have a total of 7 broadband services
The broadband census has found 0 broadband service(s)
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