Symmetrical Internet Grows as Fiber Expands in US
Consumers are placing increasing importance on internet services that offer gigabit speeds, including symmetrical performance for both downstream and upstream traffic.
Our most recent State of US Broadband report highlights how gigabit speed availability has evolved over the last three years. The following trends stand out:
- 90% of US residential locations now have access to at least one provider of gigabit downstream speeds, while nearly half have access to two or more providers.
- As access to fiber has expanded over the last three years, symmetrical gigabit speed availability has become more common. 55% of locations now have access to at least one provider offering symmetrical gigabit speeds, a 20% increase over H1 of 2022.
- 12% of locations have two symmetrical gigabit providers, up from just 3% in H1 2022.
These trends highlight both upgrades in cable networks to accommodate downstream gigabit speeds as well as significant investments in fiber networks across the US over the past three year. Both trends are contributing to increased competitive intensity in the broadband market.
Explore the State of US Broadband Report
This analysis is part of Cartesian’s State of US Broadband report, a biannual publication from Cartesian’s own expert analysts designed to make the FCC’s BDC data accessible and digestible as quickly as possible following each release. Download the full report below.
And if you are interested in watching our webinar where we discuss findings from the report, click here.
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Cartesian has over three decades of telecom strategy and analytics experience helping internet service providers, investors, industry groups, and state governments navigate the changing, competitive landscape of broadband internet access and network investment in the United States. Get in touch today to learn how we can help your team.
