Frequently asked questions about ultra-high-speed internet service
What exactly is 1-Gig?
It is a billion bits of data transmitted in a second, usually over the Internet. So 1-G speed is much faster than the average download speed currently available in south Mississippi and more than 100 times faster than the area’s highest average upload speed. One-gig is also the minimum speed the Coast needs to be economically competitive with the rest of the country.
What is ultra-high speed Internet service?
Average internet connection speeds to Coast residents are about 20 mbps (megabits per second.) Ultra-high speed is measured in gigabits and 1-Gigabit is 50 times faster than most Coast residents receive now. At this speed, you can stream multiple HD movies at once and video chat without interruption, connect smartphones and tablets to your in-home Wi-Fi to save on mobile data, and upload and download files at similar high speeds. It’s perfect for homes with several high-bandwidth Internet devices, serving multiple users without interruption or delays common to slower speeds.
What are the benefits of Internet connections that fast?
When you have Internet speeds of 1-Gig and more, it will change the way you work and play:
RESIDENTIAL ~ Stream HD movies from multiple devices at once, upload videos or numerous images in seconds, multiple connection devices (iPhones, iPads, desktop or laptop computers, notebooks, etc.) can use all those devices at the same time without slowdowns or interruptions that frequently occur at slower speeds.
BUSINESS ~ Users can download or upload very large presentations or files, graphics and videos in seconds instead of minutes. Video conferencing is quicker, easier and cheaper. Affordable 1-Gig or higher speeds attract high tech businesses, which in turn create higher paying jobs. Even traditional businesses benefit significantly from ultrahigh
speed Internet connections by becoming more efficient and cost-effective.
EDUCATION ~ Schools, like businesses, can be more efficient and cost-effective by utilizing ultra-high speed Internet service. Computer testing at slower speeds often experiences interruptions or disconnections, which require longer testing schedules or re-testing. With 1-Gig service, schools could also reduce the significant cost of hardware by allowing students to use their personal devices (i.e. iPhones, iPads, notebooks, laptops, etc.) for classwork and testing.
MEDICINE ~ Ultra-high speed connections enable doctors and nurse practitioners to more accurately and more quickly treat patients in person and via remote hookups. Specialists can be consulted instantly from any distance and review X-ray, MRI and other images from high-definition resolution. Advanced applications for Tele-health services are being discovered every day.
Don’t local phone and cable companies already offer ultra-high speed service?
Yes, but only in limited areas and it comes at a high cost. One-Gig symmetrical service is available in limited areas of the Coast at a cost of thousands of dollars per month, but 1-Gig upload speed is not yet widely available. In comparison, Chattanooga, TN offers 1-Gig download and upload for only $70 per month.
Why did Biloxi and Gulfport create an ultra-high speed interlocal agreement?
Focusing on municipal services, Biloxi and Gulfport created an agreement that other cities will join to help ensure that delivery of ultra-high speed Internet infrastructure within their cities is timely, affordable and universally available. Private providers prefer to build their ultra-high speed networks slowly and target highend users first to maximize profits. By establishing an interlocal group to access state or federal funds to facilitate a gigabit “ring” for the Coast, local governments can speed up the process and help ensure competition among providers that will result in lower prices and universal delivery to residents, businesses, schools and public places.
How can local governments lower rates of private providers and improve service?
The group was created to access available state and federal funds to spur delivery of a Coast-wide connection “ring,” which reduces infrastructure costs for providers. This will help stimulate competition among private providers, which in turn will lower rates. Without the involvement of the local governments, private companies would likely move slower, might charge higher connection rates and offer limited service. The interlocal agreement will better assure a universal quality of service that is affordable and attainable in a more timely manner.