Internet Backbone Map 2020: Understanding the Evolution of Broadband Infrastructure in the United States

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it's crucial to acknowledge the significant progress made in broadband infrastructure development over the past decade. The 'first mover' problem has led to a technology debt that is challenging to justify building over at scale, with America having pioneered the internet using copper telephone cables.

Despite the rapid technological advancements and governmental spending, a vast digital divide persists in the United States. In this report, we will break down and quantify where broadband deployment progress has been made and where more work needs to be done.

The cultural and societal evolution on the web has outpaced the expansion of the infrastructure that enables us to get connected in the first place. Services we use daily did not exist at the turn of the decade, and today, the world is shaped by events that transpire online. It's difficult to quantify just how transformative a force the internet has been throughout the 2010s.

Since 2010, there has been significant growth in broadband connectivity across all 50 states. According to our analysis, broadband infrastructure growth has varied significantly from state to state, with some regions making more progress than others.

In this article, we will examine the state of broadband deployment in the United States throughout the 2010s and look ahead to where advanced deployment technologies will take us in the next decade. We will also provide a comprehensive overview of the most valuable communication medium at the turn of the decade.

As we enter the new decade, access to the internet has become essential for modern living, similar to access to electricity was in the early 1900s. Our analysis highlights the importance of continued investment in broadband infrastructure development to bridge the digital divide and ensure equal access to this vital resource.

In conclusion, understanding the evolution of broadband infrastructure is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by the 'first mover' problem and the technology debt that comes with it. By analyzing the progress made over the past decade and looking ahead to future developments, we can work towards creating a more connected and equitable digital society for all Americans.

Internet backbone map 2020