Understanding the Digital Divide: The Need for Reliable Broadband Access

The digital divide has been a pressing issue for years, with many households in both rural and urban communities lacking reliable broadband access. This gap in access is not only frustrating but also has far-reaching consequences, particularly during times of crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic.

In recent years, the impact of the digital divide has become more pronounced. As remote learning became the new norm, students without sufficient internet access were left behind, facing a daunting education gap that could last for generations. This disparity in access to digital resources is not limited to individuals; it also affects businesses, communities, and schools.

Despite advancements in technology, many around the world still lack a reliable internet connection or access at all. Instant communication has created a smaller, more connected world, increasing economic opportunities – but only for those with access to a reliable internet connection.

To address this issue, it is essential to increase transparency and accountability for telecommunications service providers and policymakers. Ookla for Good is dedicated to making the internet better, faster, and more accessible for everyone.

Recently, Mapbox and Ookla launched the Ookla for Good Global Network Performance map, providing unprecedented access to global broadband performance data. This innovative tool combines Ookla Open Datasets with the scalable processing power of Mapbox Tiling Service (MTS) and the dynamic map rendering capability of GLJS v2.

The Ookla map is a game-changer, enabling researchers, policymakers, journalists, and the general public to make better-informed decisions about how to bridge the digital divide. By leveraging this powerful tool, we can work together to create a more connected world where everyone has access to reliable broadband internet.