FCC Abolishes Gigabit Speed Goal, Suggesting It Is Unfair To Slower Technologies

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has abandoned its ambitious goal of providing gigabit-speed internet, arguing that such a target is unfair to slower technologies. The decision, announced in the FCC's latest broadband deployment report, reveals the agency's commitment to prioritizing technological neutrality over lofty speed benchmarks.

While fiber networks have long offered gigabit speeds, the FCC asserts that the goal is not technically neutral, suggesting it is unfair to technologies that currently operate at slower speeds, such as satellite and fixed wireless.

In 2024, the FCC raised its broadband benchmark to a minimum of 100Mbps downstream and 20Mbps upstream, setting the new standard for evaluating broadband deployment. This update comes amidst a shift in the FCC's approach to broadband goals, with Republican Commissioner Brendan Carr, now serving as FCC chairman, previously opposing the long-term goal of 1Gbps download and 500Mbps upload speeds.

The agency contends that the goal lacks a clear purpose and that predicting future technological developments and consumer preferences is impossible.

The decision to abolish the long-term goal was supported by comments from industry groups representing both cable and wireless providers, further reinforcing the FCC's stance on prioritizing technological neutrality. The FCC emphasizes that the decision is not intended to accommodate slower technologies but rather to maintain a technologically neutral approach in evaluating broadband deployment.