Montanans Encouraged to Participate in On-Line Speed Tests to Map High Speed Internet Availability

The Montana Department of Commerce is encouraging Montana citizens to help test the speed and efficiency of Montana’s broadband Internet service by participating in on-line speed tests.

The on-line speed tests are part of Montana’s Broadband Mapping project, which is designed to help identify the deficiencies in Montana’s high speed Internet service. Broadband is high-speed access to the Internet delivered via fiber optic, copper phone lines, cable, or wireless technologies.

To take the test, log on to the web site http://www.mtspeedtest.org, answer the simple questions and click the speed test button. The web-site will then display the Internet connection speed and simultaneously collect data to help the state map broadband availability. If broadband is unavailable, citizens are requested to leave a message at the following toll-free number – 1-877-448-6277 (MAPS).

“These tests are quick, easy and important,” said Anthony Preite, Director of the Montana Department of Commerce. “The data collected from these speed tests will help us plan for broadband services. Broadband technologies are key to bringing good jobs, educational opportunities and cost-effective services to Montana. I encourage everyone to take the speed-test to help promote this project.”

Montana’s Broadband Mapping project is the first step in identifying and actually measuring the need for new broadband services in Montana. It will help telecommunication providers determine where there is a market for expanded services and help communities work with providers to obtain these services. In areas that already have robust broadband technologies, economic development officials can use the map to promote these areas as broadband-ready.

The more businesses and residents that take the speed test, the more accurate the broadband map will be.

Once the data is collected, the results of mapping will be available on-line and the data will be displayed in National Telecommunication Infrastructure Administration’s (NTIA) national broadband map. Every state is participating in the national broadband map.

“Montana’s information will be used by the NTIA to produce a nation-wide map that lays the groundwork for enhanced internet services across America,” said Preite. “This process will identify gaps in broadband availability and speed – and that information will lead to increased economic development, educational opportunities, public safety and national security.”

The map will be a tool that will inform policymakers’ efforts and provide consumers with improved information on the broadband Internet services available to them. The NTIA awarded Montana $2.086 million in federal U.S. Department of Commerce funds for broadband mapping and planning.