There has been due recognition, at least by most people and policymakers, that broadband Internet providers have responded in an admirable fashion to keep American connected during the COVID-19 pandemic - despite the substantial increase in network traffic caused by the lockdowns and changes in everyday life.
To some extent, the ability of broadband providers to maintain, or exceed, their quality of service standards despite the major traffic increases is attributable to the robustness of their broadband networks, which, in turn, is attributable to almost $2 trillion dollars of private investment in these networks since 2000. But it is also attributable to extraordinary efforts undertaken by the people who are charged with operating the networks.
To be sure, there are examples of this extraordinary effort among all the major broadband providers and smaller ones as well. But, by way of example, here is a Comcast COVID-19 Report, "How Our People Met the Challenge Despite Unparalleled Disruption," that is worth reviewing. To the extent it is sometimes overlooked, the report brings home the human effort involved in ensuring that Comcast's broadband service has remained robust.
It's worth remembering - and appreciating - this dedication as we get through and beyond the pandemic.
There's more work to do in closing remaining digital divides. But this won't be accomplished without free market-oriented policies, the application of American ingenuity, and the ongoing dedication of employees of broadband providers of the kind evidenced in the Comcast report.
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