Community Networks: Sustainable Growth for Internet Infrastructure

AutorJuan Peirano and João Paulo de Vasconcelos Aguiar
Páginas91-98
91
Community Networks: Sustainable Growth for Internet Infrastructure
6 Community Networks: Sustainable Growth
for Internet Infrastructure
Juan Peirano51 and João Paulo de Vasconcelos Aguiar52
6.1 Abstract
Community networks are a valuable complementary access solution
to connect more people in places that are the hardest to reach by
traditional services. This document outlines examples in different
parts of the world of communities that have successfully deployed
and sustained their networks. In several cases, partnerships with the
local regulatory bodies, other government agencies and ministries,
private telecommunications operators, and civil society organizations
were a key factor to enabling community networks.
6.2 Introduction
Now, more than ever, it is clear how important the Internet is for
those who have access. It goes without saying that living through the
pandemic without it would have been a very different experience.
Researchers would have faced even greater challenges in finding ways
to work together to prevent the spread of COVID, and it would have
been harder for people to keep working and studying from home.
The consequences of being connected are quite clear. It
generates competitive and economic advantages, as it increases
socio-economic development and opportunities. It provides the
ability to learn, collaborate, innovate, and create. Also, real-time
communication allows for immediate feedback, problem-solving,
collaboration, and troubleshooting.
However, access has several dimensions and is different from country
to country. For some it is as basic as access to physical infrastructure,
as in a network in a person’s village or community. To others, it
means access to affordable services, the ability to pay for a service
that already exists. It also means being able to use the technologies
available, which implies access to digital literacy programs. Finally,
for some it means an alternative, a more resilient choice.
51 Senior Policy Advisor, ISOC.
52 Communications and Outreach Manager, Latin America, ISOC.

Para continuar a ler

PEÇA SUA AVALIAÇÃO

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT