Broadband Internet & Digital Equity
BROADBAND 101 INTRODUCTION
As the world becomes increasingly digitized, internet connectivity has become a vital aspect of modern life. From communication and information access to e-commerce and online education, the internet has revolutionized the way we interact with the world around us. At the County of Kauaʻi, we recognize the importance of internet connectivity in our growing community and economy. Access to reliable and high-speed broadband internet not only improves the quality of life for citizens but also opens up opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and job creation.
So What Is “Broadband”?
In simple terms, broadband is the technology allowing you to connect to the internet. Broadband’s high-speed connectivity enables faster and more reliable access to online resources and services. Unlike traditional dial-up connections, broadband utilizes a wider range of frequencies to transmit data, which allows for faster download and upload speeds. This type of internet connection is suitable for a variety of internet needs, including streaming video and music, telehealth, online schooling, online gaming, video conferencing, and working from home. Broadband infrastructure includes cables, fiber-optic lines, wireless networks, and satellite systems that transmit data at high speeds. This infrastructure connects homes, businesses, and communities to the internet and enables faster access to online resources and services.
Why Does This Matter?
The Federal Government allocated hundreds of millions of dollars to Hawaiʻi (through the Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program) to increase access to high speed internet by paying for the necessary internet infrastructure and to invest in digital equity programs, ensuring that everyone has access to the digital tools, training, and resources needed to fully participate in our society and economy. This funding could be used for:
- More undersea internet cables to increase Hawaiʻi’s internet resiliency
- Critical broadband infrastructure connecting Hawaiʻi to the rest of the world
- Fiber internet installed at every home (even the rural, hard to reach homes!)
- Digital literacy programs – teaching the community how to safely and effectively use computers and the internet
- Free computers for those in need
HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR INTERNET
The County of Kauaʻi is committed to ensuring that everyone in our community has access to reliable and affordable internet. Expanding high-speed broadband is essential to support education, work, healthcare, and overall quality of life. By providing tools, resources, and initiatives that empower residents, we’re working towards a future where all individuals, regardless of their background or income level, can thrive in a digitally connected world. The County of Kauaʻi is actively involved in statewide broadband improvements and digital equity programs, and we collaborate with the State’s Broadband and Digital Equity Office (HBDEO), the University of Hawaii (who oversees the BEAD program), the other Counties, Internet Service Providers, and countless other community partners to further the mission. Below is some helpful information about how you can improve your internet, and updates on past initiatives.
DIGITAL EQUITY
Digital equity is the idea that everyone should have fair and equal access to technology and the internet, regardless of their income or geographical location. It means that everyone should be able to use technology to learn, work, communicate, and access important services. Additionally, increased internet connectivity can facilitate greater access to vital services such as telemedicine and online banking, which can help to improve the quality of life for many people. Digital equity is important because technology is becoming more and more essential to our daily lives, and not having access can limit opportunities and create disadvantages. By prioritizing the expansion of internet infrastructure and access, we can ensure that everyone has equal opportunities to participate in the digital economy and take advantage of the many benefits that technology has to offer.
Types of Digital Equity Programs/Events in Kauaʻi
Digital literacy classes teach people how to use computers, the internet, and online tools confidently and safely. These classes cover basics like browsing the web, using email, and protecting personal information.
As the digital literacy programs grow and expand in Kauaʻi, we’ll also explore new opportunities to offer more advanced skills and training to help everyone stay connected and thrive in a digital world.
Some organizations that offer digital literacy classes include but are not limited to: County of Kauaʻi Agency on Elderly Affairs, Mapunawai, the Hawaii State Public Library System, and more.
With the closing of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provided a $30 monthly rebate for a household’s internet bill, Spectrum and Hawaiian Tel both created low-cost internet plans for low-income individuals.
To help make internet access more affordable, Spectrum’s Internet Assist Program and Hawaiian Tel’s Fioptics Internet Assistance offer discounted internet plans specifically for low-income households. These programs provide reliable internet access at a lower cost, helping families stay connected for work, school, and essential services.
These programs go beyond basic digital literacy skills, offering training that prepares individuals for careers in tech-related fields. By equipping people with industry-specific knowledge, these programs create pathways to sustainable jobs in the growing tech sector, helping them build successful, future-focused careers.
Currently, free WiFi is available at public libraries and neighborhood centers. We are working to expand this access by adding more public WiFi locations, including at parks and other popular public spaces, to make it easier for everyone to get online. Increasing free public WiFi will support community access to essential digital resources and help bridge the digital divide.
WHAT IS DIGITAL EQUITY?
Digital equity bridges the gap between those who have easy access to technology and those who face barriers, helping everyone participate fully in work, education, and community life.
Some Barriers to Digital Equity Include:
- Inability to afford internet connectivity
- Inability to afford devices – computers, smartphones, modem, router, etc.
- Lack of internet access at home
- Limited technology skills
- Language and cultural barriers
- Distrust or fear of technology
Addressing these barriers requires a multifaceted approach, including policy changes, infrastructure investment, community outreach, and education to ensure everyone has the tools and skills to thrive in a digital world.
Graphic credit: Purdue University
TO LEARN MORE, VISIT:
- connectkakou.org – The State of Hawaii’s broadband initiative designed to inform, guide, and further connectivity in Hawaii
- Digital Detectives – Initiative to train Middle School students to perform internet speed tests in their community
- Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program – Federal funding to expand internet access to every home in the United States
- Hawaii Broadband Hui – Weekly ZOOM call with statewide partners who are trying to bridge the digital divide in Hawaii
CONTACT US
For any inquiries, please contact Nate Prescott:
Email: nprescott@kauai.gov
Phone: (808) 241- 4948
