FCC raises broadband speed benchmark, 100 MBPS is the new standard

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) raised the benchmark for high-speed fixed broadband, setting 100 Mbps and 20 Mbps as the new download and upload standards, respectively.

In a press note released on March 14, 2024, the commission confirmed increasing the benchmark four-fold from the previous 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload.

The FCC came to the decision after analyzing the standards used by state programs and consumer usage patterns.

The increase in the Commission’s fixed speed benchmark for advanced telecommunications capability is based on the standards now used in multiple federal and state programs (such as NTIA’s BEAD Program and multiple USF programs), consumer usage patterns, and what is actually available from and marketed by internet service providers.

Higher Internet speeds become vital as we move ahead. Websites are becoming more complex than ever, increasing the loading time. Improvements to video quality on streaming platforms necessitate switching to better Internet plans. Even social networking platforms have become more speed demanding than ever.

High-speed Internet plans aren’t as expensive anymore, costing as much as what we shelled out on significantly lower speeds a decade ago.

15% Americans don’t have access to high speed Internet

FCC, in the report, also highlights how a large portion of the population has not benefitted from advanced telecommunications capabilities.

The Report concludes that advanced telecommunications capability is not being deployed in a reasonable and timely fashion based on the total number of Americans, Americans in rural areas, and people living on Tribal lands who lack access to such capability, and the fact that these gaps in deployment are not closing rapidly enough.

The report states that 45 million Americans don’t have access to 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload Internet speed, the new benchmark set by the commission.

FCC’s long-term goal is to reach the 1 Gbps/500 Mbps (download/upload) broadband speed benchmark. It aims to deliver this to the maximum people, ensuring those in the rural or tribal parts are not left out.

Use a speed test software to find out whether your connection meets the benchmark set by the FCC. Even if it doesn’t, there’s nothing to worry about. You can speed up the Internet without upgrading the plan or shelling out any extra money.

Do you believe the new 100/20 Mbps speed benchmarks by FCC will improve the overall experience? Share with our readers in the comments section.