Resource Guide

Broadband 101

Beginning to work on broadband can be intimidating—there are technical terms to learn, federal agencies to familiarize yourself with, and no shortage of acronyms. However, there is also a vibrant community of organizations working on these issues and eager to share information. The resources below are a helpful starting point for learning about broadband technology and the planning process. 

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Guidebook

Becoming broadband ready: A toolkit for communities

Next Century Cities

This toolkit provides a set of best practices for local leaders interested in preparing their communities for broadband investment. It is organized by concept (such as building community support and evaluating different network models), and also includes a checklist of action steps and a glossary of broadband terms.

Guidebook

Planning a community broadband roadmap: A toolkit for local and Tribal governments

National Telecommunications and Information Administration

This resource provides an in-depth description of the broadband project planning process. It breaks the process into six steps, and provides additional resources and planning tools.

Guidebook

A complete guide to fiber optic internet

OTELCO

OTELCO offers a technical overview of fiber optics, as well as notes on DSL, cable, and fixed wireless networks. This broadband primer also discusses the benefits of broadband, construction methods, and finance and regulatory considerations.

Guidebook

Broadband 101

North Carolina Department of Information Technology

This resource from the State of North Carolina provides an overview of why broadband is important, the benefits of broadband, and what technologies can be used to access broadband.

Technical Guide

Learning @ Internet Society

Internet Society (ISOC)

The Internet Society offers a wide range of free, self-paced online courses for those wishing to explore the technical and programmatic aspects of broadband development. Course topics include network operations, Internet exchange points, encryption, and grant application and project implementation.

Newsletter

Weekly Digest

Benton Institute for Broadband & Society

Subscribing to newsletters is a great way to stay up to date in the fast-evolving world of broadband. Sign up for the Benton Institute for Broadband & Society's Weekly Digest newsletter.

Newsletter

Community Broadband Networks

Institute for Local Self-Reliance

Sign-up form to receive broadband newsletters from the Institute for Local Self-Reliance.