High-Speed Internet to Rural America

Microsoft has a unique solution to providing millions of Americans in rural parts of the country with high-speed wireless broadband internet - utilizing the white space spectrum between TV channels. With a goal of connecting 2.2 million out of the estimated 23 million rural Americans by 2022, Microsoft does not seek to enter the telecoms space. Rather, they want to provide broadband connectivity to the under served parts of the country.

White space spectrum

White space is the name given to the buffer space between TV channels. Back in the analog days of television this buffer was needed to prevent interstation interference. Now, it is unused bandwidth that Microsoft wants to use to connect all of America to broadband internet.

In 2010 the FCC adopted rules that enabled the use of TV white space in America. Since then Microsoft has deployed 20 white space projects in other countries that has served over 180,000 new internet users. Building on this success Microsoft's goal is bridge the gap that exists in this country. Defined as having internet connections above 25 Mbps download speed, 23.4 million Americans do not have access to internet that allows them to stream Netflix or Amazon Prime.

By offering royalty-free access to the source code and patents, Microsoft hopes that the 21 million rural Americans without internet can be served by other companies as the estimated cost to connect such a large number of rural, low-density areas is $8 - $12 billion. Research shows that access to high speed internet correlates well with growth and opportunity so this white space spectrum based broadband should be a boon for millions. 

Bridging the broadband gap

By sending internet traffic over existing infrastructure, it is believed to be at least an 80 percent cost savings over providing hardwired broadband connections. For regions with 2 - 200 people per square mile, this white space solution is the most economically efficient. For regions with fewer than 2 people per square mile satellite internet is best and for more dense areas, Wi-Fi is most efficient.

The powerful bandwidth being accessed is in the 600 Mhz frequency range, allowing it to travel over hills and through buildings. Microsoft President, Brad Smith, is asking the FCC to "ensure that three channels below 700 MHz are available for wireless use on an unlicensed basis in every market in the country, with additional TV white spaces available in smaller markets and rural areas." 

This move can be seen as a political gesture on Microsoft's part earning political capital to be spent in the future encouraging national development of digital infrastructure. With at least 39 patents being offered, royalty-free, Microsoft wants others to help bridge the broadband gap while encouraging others to follow suite. The white space spectrum is unlicensed so anyone can use it. 

We at PC TEC RESCUERS support Microsoft in this endeavor and wish for everyone to have easy access to high-speed internet. Contact us if you have a problem with your phone or computer - our friendly and professional techs are available to assist you 24/7 and await your call!