A New Way to Measure Broadband in America

A few weeks ago the Federal Communications Commission announced the first step in collecting that information for consumers, the solicitation of bids for a third-party to independently test absolute speeds that providers deliver. The bidding process resulted in the selection of SamKnows Limited to partner with the FCC on broadband testing. SamKnows completed a similar project for Ofcom, the regulator in the United Kingdom, last year.

In a couple of weeks, the FCC will be asking for consumers from across the country to voluntarily install hardware in their homes (on an opt-in basis) that is capable of measuring broadband performance. The measurements will give the FCC results across a broad swath of providers, service tiers and geographic areas. More details on how to volunteer will follow in the coming weeks. The FCC will also release a Public Notice (PN) in the coming days with details on SamKnows' technical approach and methodology to allow for comment and new ideas.

The FCC is encouraging everyone to provide it with thoughts and comments about the approach, both on its blog as well as in direct response to the PN. And, of course, when the website is announced -- sign up to participate in the panel!