The Digital Divide in Rural Areas
The digital divide refers to the gap between individuals, households, businesses, and geographic areas concerning their access to information and communication technologies (ICT), as well as the skills and knowledge required to use these effectively. In rural areas, this divide is often more pronounced due to factors such as limited infrastructure, low population density, and challenging topography. As a result, rural communities frequently experience slower internet speeds, lower access to advanced technologies, and a lack of skilled IT professionals.
According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), as of 2021, approximately 14.5 million Americans in rural areas still lacked access to high-speed broadband internet. This lack of connectivity not only hinders the ability of rural businesses to compete in the global market but also affects the overall quality of life for rural residents, limiting access to education, healthcare, and other essential services.