Professional Documents
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in All 50 States
www.speedmatters.org
Communications Workers of America
501 Third Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20001
www.cwa-union.org
www.speedmatters.org
© August, 2009
U.S Internet Speeds in 2009 Show Limited Progress and
Still Lag Behind Many Countries
speed increased by only nine-tenths of a megabit per second
T
he results of this third annual speedmatters.org sur-
vey of Internet speeds show that the U.S. has not (from 4.2 mbps to 5.1 mbps), and the average upload
made significant improvement in the speeds at speed barely changed (from 873 kbps to 1.1 mbps). At this
which residents connect to the Internet. Our nation contin- rate, it will take the United States 15 years to catch up with
ues to fall far behind other countries.1 current Internet speeds in South Korea. Moreover, the aver-
age upload speed from the speedmatters.org survey is far
Speed makes the promise of the Internet a reality. But too too slow for patient monitoring or to transmit large files
many Americans are locked into slow Internet, foreclosing such as medical records.2
access to many online applications and services.
The 2009 speedmatters.org survey also reveals that the U.S.
The 2009 speedmatters.org survey finds that the average continues to lag far behind other countries. The United
download speed for the nation was 5.1 megabits per second States ranks 28th in the world in average Internet connec-
(mbps) and the average upload speed was 1.1 mbps. These tion speeds. In South Korea, the average download speed is
speeds are just slightly faster than the 2008 speedmat- 20.4 mbps, or four times faster than the U.S. The U.S.
ters.org results of 4.2 megabits per second (mbps) down- trails Japan at 15.8 mbps, Sweden at 12.8 mbps, the
load and 873 kilobits per second (kbps) upload. In other Netherlands at 11.0 mbps, and 24 other countries that have
words, between 2008 and 2009, the average download faster broadband than we do.
August 2009 1
Next-generation broadband provides enough bandwidth to
Most Americans Locked into Slow Internet
allow people to send and receive multiple video channels,
Downstream speed Percent of Speed Testers large data files, medical diagnostics, or participate in real-
time video conferencing. These activities require at least 10
< 768 kbps 18%
mbps download and upload speed. Fiber-to-the-home net-
768 kbps to 6 mbps 51% works can deliver 100 mbps in both directions.
6 mbps to 10 mbps 13%
Using the typical speeds available on today’s DSL or cable
10 mbps to 25 mbps 17% modem, it can take two hours or more to upload or down-
load an educational video, but only two minutes on an all-
> 25 mbps 2%
fiber network.
Source: speedmatters.org 2009 speed test results. Results do not add up to 100% due to
rounding. The Federal Communications Commission defines basic broadband as speeds
Similarly, at U.S. average download and upload speeds, it
greater than 768 kbps in one direction. takes about 35 minutes to download 100 pictures taken on
a family vacation and a full four hours to upload those
Moreover, people in other countries have access to much same photos. On an all-fiber 100 mbps network, it would
faster networks. Ninety percent of Japanese households take less than two minutes to upload or download the full
have access to fiber-to-the-home networks capable of 100 set of pictures.
mbps. According to the Organisation for Economic
Cooperation and Development (OECD), the average of
advertised speeds offered by broadband providers in Japan Why Speed Matters
was 92.8 mbps and in South Korea was 80.8 mbps down-
load. According to the OECD, the U.S. ranks 19th in the U.S. Economic Growth Depends on High-Speed
world in average advertised broadband download speed at Internet. We need high-speed Internet for our homes,
9.6 mbps.3 schools, hospitals, and workplaces. Speed defines what is
possible on the Internet. It determines whether we will have
The results of the 2009 speedmatters.org survey also show the 21st century networks we need to create the jobs of the
that most Americans continue to be locked into slow future, develop our economy, and support innovations in
Internet, while relatively few have access to truly high- telemedicine, education, public safety, energy conservation,
speed two-way connections. Eighteen percent of those who and public services to improve our lives and communities.
took the speed test recorded download speeds that were Most U.S. Internet connections today are not fast enough in
slower than 768 kbps, which does not even qualify as basic both directions to permit interactive home-based medical
broadband according to the Federal Communications monitoring, multi-media distance learning, or to send and
Commission. Another two-thirds (64 percent) of speed test receive data to run a home-based business.
participants connected at less than 10 mbps downstream,
which is not enough bandwidth for high-definition video. U.S. Trails Far Behind Other Countries. The United
Only one-fifth (19 percent) of speed test participants con- States has fallen to 15th behind other industrialized nations
nected at speeds greater than 10 mbps, with only 2 percent in the percent of the population subscribing to broadband.
of those exceeding 25 mbps downstream.4 Countries like Canada, Britain, France, Germany, and
Sweden have higher broadband subscription rates than we
Speed makes all the difference on the Internet. Current gen- do.5 In addition, other countries, like Japan, South Korea,
eration broadband, usually a DSL or cable modem connec- and Sweden, have much faster Internet connections than
tion, typically delivers from 768 kbps to 6 mbps downstream we do. People in Japan can upload a high-definition video
and less than 1 mbps upstream. These rates provide enough in 12 minutes, compared to a grueling 2.5 hours at the
capacity to send and receive e-mail, browse web sites, or U.S. average upload speed. Yet, people in Japan pay about
watch a 10-minute You-Tube video. But these speeds are not the same as we do in the U.S. for their Internet
enough to handle high-definition video streaming. connection.6
2 August 2009
U.S. Internet is Behind the Rest of the World
Average Download Speed, 2009
United States
Germany
Netherlands
Sweden
Japan
South Korea
“
0 5 10 15 20 25
Sources: U.S. data is from speedmatters.org test
(megabits per second)
results. International data from speedtest.net.
Millions of Americans Don’t Have High-Speed Internet. mark legislation, Congress recognized that broadband is an
All too many Americans encounter a significant digital essential infrastructure for global competitiveness, job cre-
divide. Families in rural areas are much less likely to subscribe ation, and improvements in education, health care, public
to broadband. According to surveys, while 67 percent of safety, energy conservation, among other purposes. The
urban households and suburban households subscribe to stimulus funds are merely a down payment, and much
broadband, only 46 percent of rural households do. Similarly, more must be done.
whereas 88 percent of Americans who earn over $100,000 a
year get broadband, only 35 percent of households that earn There are a number of bold but specific steps that the U.S.
less than $20,000 subscribe. Only about one-half (54 per- should take to recover our lost leadership and competitive
cent) of middle-income families earning between $30,000 position to ensure that all residents benefit from affordable,
and $40,000 a year subscribe to broadband.7 high-speed Internet access.
August 2009 3
3. DEVELOP STATE AND REGIONAL BROADBAND PLANNING doctors to make virtual “house calls” and diagnose medical
COMMISSIONS OR TASK FORCES AND PUBLIC-PRIVATE conditions at a distance. High-speed connections enable
PARTNERSHIPS TO STIMULATE HIGH-SPEED BROAD- students to take courses hundreds of miles away, yet partic-
BAND DEPLOYMENT AND ADOPTION. A number of states ipate in class discussion, or complete job certification
have created broadband task forces, commissions, or online. Better and faster data transmission permits fire,
authorities that bring together multiple public and private police, and emergency personnel to exchange real-time
stakeholders to develop cost-effective state broadband video and data. Federal, state, and local policy makers
plans. State and regional planning is essential to create an should integrate broadband infrastructure and applications
accurate assessment, conduct analyses of barriers to into delivery of education, health, job training, public
broader deployment and adoption, target public resources safety, and other public services.
and create public-private partnerships to overcome these
barriers, and share models of successful initiatives. 7. NO CHILD OFFLINE. One-third of adults in the U.S. do not
Programs such as Connect Ohio and Connect Tennessee use the Internet, and most of them do not own a personal
demonstrate that research-based planning, demand stim- computer. Surveys indicate that the biggest barriers to
ulation, and public-private partnerships increase deploy- broadband adoption are lack of computer, high cost of
ment and adoption of broadband.8 equipment and broadband access, lack of knowledge about
how to use the technology, and lack of interest in existing
4. REFORM UNIVERSAL SERVICE. Today, universal service broadband applications.9 The federal broadband stimulus
subsidies support voice telephony. It is long past time to grants should provide important models to expand digital
reform our universal service program to support afford- literacy, develop public-interest broadband applications
able, high-speed Internet for all. The $7.2 billion stimu- and services, and provide affordable computers and broad-
lus funding provides an important laboratory to band access equipment to low-income households.
determine the most effective use of grants and low-inter-
est loans to fund network deployment in high-cost rural 8. PRESERVE AN OPEN INTERNET. We must protect free
areas and other underserved areas, and the extent to speech on the Internet so that people can go where they
which we will need on-going operating subsidies to want and download or upload what they want when they
ensure affordability. The existing universal service Lifeline want on the Internet. There should be no unreasonable
and Link-Up programs of subsidies to low-income fami- blocking of access to any websites, degradation of service,
lies for telephone service should be expanded to include or censoring any lawful content on the Internet. The
subsidy programs for Internet access and equipment, FCC should adjudicate on an expedited basis complaints
such as computers. The highly-successful E-Rate pro- alleging unreasonable discrimination by broadband or
gram of subsidies to schools, libraries, and rural health content providers, while recognizing the need for reason-
centers should continue and support the expanded band- able network management. Most important, building
width needs of these community institutions. high-capacity networks will ensure that all Americans
have fast, open access to all content on the Internet.
5. TAX INCENTIVES FOR FASTER SPEEDS. Upgrading today’s
broadband to next-generation high-speed networks will 9. SAFEGUARD CONSUMERS AND WORKERS. Public policies
require tens of billions of dollars of capital investment, should support the growth of good, career jobs as a key to
largely from the private sector. Tax incentives lower the providing quality service. Government should require pub-
cost of capital, enabling the private sector to accelerate and lic reporting of deployment, actual speed, price, and cus-
expand investment in high-speed broadband technologies. tomer service benchmarks.
This is how Japan and South Korea achieved world lead-
It is long past time to restore U.S. leadership in high-speed
ership in broadband, building nearly universal fiber-to-
Internet policy. The U.S. has a lot of ground to cover just to
the-home networks capable of delivering 100 mbps.
remain competitive with other economies that have already
6. USE BROADBAND TO ADDRESS OUR NATION’S CHAL- adopted policies that facilitate job growth, business advance-
LENGES. Broadband-enabled smart grids and smart meters ment, and individual achievement through access to the lat-
can cut energy consumption. Online two-way video allows est information technologies. Policymakers must act now to
ensure that every American gains access to the benefits of
the information age.
4 August 2009
Speed Matters on the Internet
Speed Ranges Needed for Various Online Applications
500 kbps – 1 mbps Voice over Internet Protocol telephony 5 mbps – 10 mbps File sharing (large)
Basic email IPTV-Standard Definition
Web browsing (simple sites) (multiple channels)
Streaming music Broadcast Standard Definition video
Video streaming (2-3 channels)
Low quality video (highly compressed)
High Definition video downloading
1 mbps – 5 mbps Web browsing (complex sites) Medical file sharing (basic)
Email (larger size attachments) Remote diagnosis (basic)
Remote surveillance Remote education
IPTV-Standard Definition (SD) Building control and management
(1-3 channels)
File sharing (small/medium) 10 mbps – 100 mbps Telemedicine
Digital broadcast video (1 channel) Educational services
Streaming music Broadcast video SD and some
High Definition
IPTV-High Definition
High quality telepresence
High Defintion surveillance
Smart/intelligent building control
Source: California Broadband Task Force, The State of Connectivity: Building Innovation Through Broadband, Jan. 2008 (available at www.calink.ca.gov/pdf/CBTF_FINAL_Report.pdf)
Endnotes
1 Between May 2008 and May 2009, 413,000 people in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands went to the speedmatters.org site
to take an Internet speed test and measure how fast their computers can upload and download data.
2 There are several statistical methodologies to calculate the center of a distribution of numbers. In this 2009 report, we calculate the mean or average Internet
upload and download speeds (e.g. the sum of all speed tests divided by the number of test takers). In previous speedmatters.org reports (2007 and 2008), we
calculated the median Internet upload and download speeds. The median represents the middle value of a set of numbers (e.g. half the numbers in a series are
larger than the median and half are smaller). Since other commercial speed tests that provide international data report the mean (average), we have decided to
use the mean (average) in this 2009 report. For comparison purposes, we have re-calculated the 2008 data to show the mean (average) speeds. The U.S. data is
from speedmatters.org test results. The international data is from speedtest.net.
3 There is a difference between actual and advertised Internet speeds. The speedmatters.org speed test and the international data collected by speedtest.net
measure the actual speed of an Internet connection. The OECD data reports the average of advertised speeds offered by broadband providers in its 30 member
countries. The OECD data is useful in showing the typical speed available to households. Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, OECD
Broadband Statistics, Table 5a. (available at www.oecd.org/document/54/0,3343,en_2649_34225_38690102_1_1_1_1,00.html). See also Information Technology
and Innovation Foundation, Explaining International Broadband Leadership, May 2008 (available at www.itif.org/files/ExplainingBBLeadership.pdf).
4 Our results are consistent with other publicly available data. The Pew Internet and American Life Project reports that seven percent of Internet users have a dial-
up connection. See Pew Internet & American Life Project, “Home Broadband Adoption 2009” (available at www.pewinternet.org/~/media//Files/Reports/2009/
Home-Broadband-Adoption-2009.pdf). The FCC reports on the speed of broadband infrastructure based on data supplied by broadband providers. According to
2008 FCC data, six percent of wired broadband lines are capable of delivering data at speeds below 200 kbps; 26 percent of lines can deliver data at speeds
between 200 kbps and 2.5 mbps; 60 percent of lines can deliver data at speeds between 2.5 mbps and 10 mbps; eight percent of lines can deliver data at
speeds between 10 mbps and 25 mbps; and fewer than one percent of lines can deliver data at speeds that exceed 25 mbps downstream. CWA calculations
based on FCC, “High Speed Services for Internet Access: Status as of June 30, 2008,” Table 5. 2009.
August 2009 5
5 Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. The OECD surveys are available at www.oecd.org/document/54/0,3343,en_2649_34225_38690102_1_1_1_1,00.html)
The United States ranked 20th in broadband penetration among all countries, according to the International Telecommunications Union, World
Telecommunications Database 2008 (available at www.itu.int/ITU-D/icteye/Reporting/ShowReportFrame.aspx?ReportName=/WTI/InformationTechnologyPublic&RP_
intYear=2008&RP_intLanguageID=1).
6 Robert D. Atkinson, Daniel K. Correa, Julie K. Hedlund, Explaining International Broadband Leadership, Washington, D.C.: The Information Technology and
Innovation Foundation, May 2008 (available at http://www.itif.org/files/ExplainingBBLeadership.pdf); Derek S. Turner, “Broadband Reality Check”, Aug. 2006
(available at http://www.freepress.net/docs/bbrc2-final.pdf); CWA, “Speed Matters: Affordable, High Speed Internet for All, 2006 (available at http://files.cwa-
union.org/speedmatters/SpeedMattersCWAPositionPaper.pdf).
7 Pew Internet & American Life Project, “Home Broadband Adoption 2009.” (available at http://www.pewinternet.org/~/media//Files/Reports/2009/Home-
Broadband-Adoption-2009.pdf).
8 For more information on state initiatives, see Communications Workers of America and Alliance for Public Technology, “State Broadband Initiatives” available at
http://www.speedmatters.org/content/statepolicy/.
9 Pew Internet and American Life, “Reasons People Do Not Have Broadband at Home,” Jan. 2009 (available at /www.pewinternet.org/Infographics/Reasons-
people-do-not-have-home-broadband.aspx).
6 August 2009
Individual Speed Test Reports
Alabama 8 Montana 34
Alaska 9 Nebraska 35
Arizona 10 Nevada 36
Arkansas 11 New Hampshire 37
California 12 New Jersey 38
Colorado 13 New Mexico 39
Connecticut 14 New York 40
DC 15 North Carolina 41
Delaware 16 North Dakota 42
Florida 17 Ohio 43
Georgia 18 Oklahoma 44
Hawaii 19 Oregon 45
Idaho 20 Pennsylvania 46
Illinois 21 Puerto Rico 47
Indiana 22 Rhode Island 48
Iowa 23 South Carolina 49
Kansas 24 South Dakota 50
Kentucky 25 Tennessee 51
Louisiana 26 Texas 52
Maine 27 Utah 53
Maryland 28 Vermont 54
Massachusetts 29 Virgin Islands 55
Michigan 30 Virginia 56
Minnesota 31 Washington 57
Mississippi 32 West Virginia 58
Missouri 33 Wisconsin 59
Wyoming 60
August 2009 7
Alabama and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Alabama Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
ALABAMA 4.6
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Alabama Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Alabama U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 21% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 56%
6 to 10 mbps 13% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 9% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 1% one direction. County boundaries
8 August 2009
Alaska and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Alaska Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
ALASKA 2.3
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Alaska Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Alaska U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 45% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 47%
6 to 10 mbps 4% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 2% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 1% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 9
Arizona and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Arizona Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
ARIZONA 5.7
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Arizona Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Arizona U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 17% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 49%
6 to 10 mbps 9% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 24% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
10 August 2009
Arkansas and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Arkansas Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
ARKANSAS 3.1
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Arkansas Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Arkansas U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 33% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 52%
6 to 10 mbps 7% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 6% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 1% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 11
California and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet California Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
CALIFORNIA 6.6
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most California Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of California U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 14% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 55%
6 to 10 mbps 10% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 17% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 3% one direction. County boundaries
12 August 2009
Colorado and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Colorado Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
COLORADO 5.3
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Colorado Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Colorado U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 16% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 55%
6 to 10 mbps 11% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 18% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 13
Connecticut and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Connecticut Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
CONNECTICUT 7.1
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Connecticut Residents Have Slow areas.
Speed
U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Download Speed Range % of Connecticut International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
Less than 768 kbps 10%
6 mbps to 10 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 55% The Federal Communications Commissions defines
6 to 10 mbps 9% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
10 to 25 mbps 24% one direction. County boundaries
Greater than 25 mbps 2%
14 August 2009
District of Columbia and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet District of Columbia Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
August 2009 15
Delaware and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Delaware Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
DELAWARE 9.9
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Delaware Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Delaware U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 13% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 30%
6 to 10 mbps 16% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 37% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 3% one direction. County boundaries
16 August 2009
Florida and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Florida Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
FLORIDA 5.8
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Florida Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Florida U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 12% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 52%
6 to 10 mbps 19% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 17% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 1% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 17
Georgia and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Georgia Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
GEORGIA 6.5
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Georgia Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Georgia U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 14% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 59%
6 to 10 mbps 8% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 15% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 4% one direction. County boundaries
18 August 2009
Hawaii and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Hawaii Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
HAWAII 3.0
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Hawaii Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Hawaii U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 17% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 72%
6 to 10 mbps 11% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 0% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 19
Idaho and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Idaho Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
IDAHO 2.6
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Idaho Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Idaho U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 25% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 67%
6 to 10 mbps 6% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 1% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
20 August 2009
Illinois and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Illinois Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
ILLINOIS 6.4
August 2009 21
Indiana and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Indiana Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
INDIANA 5.7
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Indiana Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Indiana U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 20% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 49%
6 to 10 mbps 12% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 17% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 2% one direction. County boundaries
22 August 2009
Iowa and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Iowa Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
IOWA 4.5
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Iowa Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Iowa U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 17% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 55%
6 to 10 mbps 19% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 8% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 1% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 23
Kansas and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Kansas Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
KANSAS 4.9
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Kansas Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Kansas U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 16% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 54%
6 to 10 mbps 16% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 13% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 1% one direction. County boundaries
24 August 2009
Kentucky and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Kentucky Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
KENTUCKY 4.6
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Kentucky Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Kentucky U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 19% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 55%
6 to 10 mbps 14% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 11% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 1% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 25
Louisiana and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Louisiana Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
LOUISIANA 6.3
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Louisiana Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Louisiana U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 10% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 46%
6 to 10 mbps 21% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 22% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 1% one direction. County boundaries
26 August 2009
Maine and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Maine Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
MAINE 3.6
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Maine Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Maine U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 23% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 56%
6 to 10 mbps 15% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 6% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 27
Maryland and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Maryland Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
MARYLAND 8.3
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Maryland Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Maryland U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps % International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps %
6 to 10 mbps % 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps % More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps % one direction. County boundaries
28 August 2009
Massachusetts and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Massachusetts Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
MASSACHUSETTS 8.6
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Massachusetts Residents Have Slow areas.
Speed
U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
International data from speedtest.net.
Download Speed Range % of Massachusetts 768 kbps to 6 mbps
Less than 768 kbps 13%
6 mbps to 10 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 42% The Federal Communications Commissions defines
6 to 10 mbps 11% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
10 to 25 mbps 32% one direction. County boundaries
Greater than 25 mbps 2%
August 2009 29
Michigan and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Michigan Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
MICHIGAN 5.3
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Michigan Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Michigan U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 19% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 56%
6 to 10 mbps 10% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 14% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 1% one direction. County boundaries
30 August 2009
Minnesota and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Minnesota Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
MINNESOTA 5.4
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Minnesota Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Minnesota U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 22% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 52%
6 to 10 mbps 9% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 15% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 3% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 31
Mississippi and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Mississippi Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
MISSISSIPPI 3.7
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Mississippi Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Mississippi U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 21% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 61%
6 to 10 mbps 10% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 8% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
32 August 2009
Missouri and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Missouri Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
MISSOURI 3.9
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Missouri Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Missouri U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 19% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 63%
6 to 10 mbps 10% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 7% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 33
Montana and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Montana Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
MONTANA 2.3
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Montana Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Montana U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 39% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 51%
6 to 10 mbps 7% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 2% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
34 August 2009
Nebraska and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Nebraska Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
NEBRASKA 4.2
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Nebraska Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Nebraska U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 18% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 57%
6 to 10 mbps 15% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 10% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 35
Nevada and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Nevada Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
NEVADA 5.7
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Nevada Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Nevada U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 21% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 49%
6 to 10 mbps 9% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 20% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 1% one direction. County boundaries
36 August 2009
New Hampshire and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet New Hampshire Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
August 2009 37
New Jersey and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet New Jersey Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
Download Speed Range % of New Jersey U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 18% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 32%
6 to 10 mbps 12% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 34% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 3% one direction. County boundaries
38 August 2009
New Mexico and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet New Mexico Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
August 2009 39
New York and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet New York Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
Over the last year, people who live in New York have
gone to speedmatters.org to see the speed of their
Internet connection. The results show that people
who live in New York, like those of the entire coun-
try, lag behind. The results also show that there is a
digital divide in high-speed Internet connections.
Download Speed Range % of New York U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 16% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 36%
6 to 10 mbps 18% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 28% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 3% one direction. County boundaries
40 August 2009
North Carolina and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet North Carolina Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
August 2009 41
North Dakota and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet North Dakota Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
42 August 2009
Ohio and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Ohio Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
OHIO 4.4
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Ohio Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Ohio U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 21% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 51%
6 to 10 mbps 16% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 11% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 43
Oklahoma and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Oklahoma Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
OKLAHOMA 5.8
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Oklahoma Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Oklahoma U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 19% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 52%
6 to 10 mbps 11% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 16% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 3% one direction. County boundaries
44 August 2009
Oregon and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Oregon Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
OREGON 4.8
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Oregon Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Oregon U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 20% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 56%
6 to 10 mbps 9% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 15% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 45
Pennsylvania and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Pennsylvania Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
PENNSYLVANIA 6.5
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Pennsylvania Residents Have Slow areas.
Speed
U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Download Speed Range % of Pennsylvania International data from speedtest.net.
Less than 768 kbps 19% 768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 47% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
6 to 10 mbps 10% The Federal Communications Commissions defines
More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
10 to 25 mbps 22%
one direction. County boundaries
Greater than 25 mbps 2%
46 August 2009
Puerto Rico and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Puerto Rico Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
August 2009 47
Rhode Island and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Rhode Island Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
48 August 2009
South Carolina and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet South Carolina Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
August 2009 49
South Dakota and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet South Dakota Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
50 August 2009
Tennessee and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Tennessee Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
TENNESSEE 5.8
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Tennessee Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Tennessee U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 16% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 53%
6 to 10 mbps 10% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 19% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 1% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 51
Texas and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Texas Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
TEXAS 5.3
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Texas Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Texas U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 19% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 55%
6 to 10 mbps 13% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 11% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 2% one direction. County boundaries
52 August 2009
Utah and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Utah Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
UTAH 3.3
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Utah Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Utah U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 11% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 71%
6 to 10 mbps 15% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 3% basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 53
Vermont and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Vermont Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
VERMONT 3.3
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Vermont Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Vermont U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 47% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 36%
6 to 10 mbps 7% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 9% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
54 August 2009
Virgin Islands and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Virgin Islands Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
August 2009 55
Virginia and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Virginia Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
VIRGINIA 7.9
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Virginia Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Virginia U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 19% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 41%
6 to 10 mbps 9% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 26% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 4% one direction. County boundaries
56 August 2009
Washington and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Washington Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
WASHINGTON 6.2
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Washington Residents Have Slow areas.
Speed
U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Download Speed Range % of Washington International data from speedtest.net.
Less than 768 kbps 14% 768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 49% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
6 to 10 mbps 12% The Federal Communications Commissions defines
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
More than 10 mbps
10 to 25 mbps 23% one direction. County boundaries
Greater than 25 mbps 1%
August 2009 57
West Virginia and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet West Virginia Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
58 August 2009
Wisconsin and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Wisconsin Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
WISCONSIN 5.2
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Wisconsin Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Wisconsin U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 18% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 55%
6 to 10 mbps 13% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 13% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 1% one direction. County boundaries
August 2009 59
Wyoming and United States
Falling Behind
We need high speed Internet for our homes, schools,
hospitals, and workplaces. But most U.S. Internet Wyoming Quick Stats
connections are far too slow to send and receive Average Download Speed, 2009
WYOMING 2.6
Average download speed by zip code.
There were no tests in unshaded
Most Wyoming Residents Have Slow Speed areas.
Download Speed Range % of Wyoming U.S. data from speedmatters.org test results. Less than 768 kbps
Less than 768 kbps 32% International data from speedtest.net.
768 kbps to 6 mbps
768 kbps to 6 mbps 55%
6 to 10 mbps 12% 6 mbps to 10 mbps
The Federal Communications Commissions defines
10 to 25 mbps 2% More than 10 mbps
basic broadband as speeds greater than 768 kbps in
Greater than 25 mbps 0% one direction. County boundaries
60 August 2009
Appendix
2009 2008
Number Average Average Download Average Average Download
of Download Upload Speed Download Upload Speed
State Tests Speed (kbps) Speed (kbps) Ranking Speed (kbps) Speed (kbps) Ranking
August 2009 61
2009 2008
Number Average Average Download Average Average Download
of Download Upload Speed Download Upload Speed
State Tests Speed (kbps) Speed (kbps) Ranking Speed (kbps) Speed (kbps) Ranking
62 August 2009
2009 2008
Number Average Average Download Average Average Download
of Download Upload Speed Download Upload Speed
State Tests Speed (kbps) Speed (kbps) Ranking Speed (kbps) Speed (kbps) Ranking
August 2009 63
Speed Matters —
High-Speed Internet for America
High Speed Internet is essential for economic growth and global competitive-
ness. The United States has fallen to 15th in high speed Internet penetration.
High-tech innovation, job growth, telemedicine, distance learning, rural devel-
opment, public safety, and e-government require truly high speed, universal
networks.
High Speed. Speed matters on the Internet. U.S. policies should promote
higher Internet speeds and higher capacity networks. The United States should
adopt policies to get us to 10 megabits per second upstream and 1 megabit per
second downstream by 2010. New benchmarks in succeeding years should
expand the number of households capable of sending and receiving multiple
channel high-definition video and reach the global standard of 100 mbps.
Open Internet. We must protect free speech on the Internet so that people
are able to go to the websites they want and download or upload what they
want when they want on the Internet. There should be no degradation of service
or censoring any lawful content on the Internet. At the same time, reasonable
network management is necessary to preserve an effective and open Internet.
Most important, building high-capacity networks will ensure that all Americans have
fast, open access to all content on the Internet.
Communications
Consumer Protections and Good Jobs. Public policies should include con-
Workers
sumer and worker protections, should support the growth of good, career jobs,
and require the public reporting of deployment, actual speed, price, and service.
of America
Washington, DC 20001
www.speedmatters.org