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A Broadband Awareness Initiative from the Iowa Communications Network
Weekly Update: July 23, 2021
The Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) will provide internet access and laptop computers for K-12 students and library patrons across the country. Deadline: August 13, 2021.
Source: Funds For Learning
ICN launched a Hotspot service that qualifies for the ECF program. Learn more about our service.
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Digital Divide
Lack of broadband internet creating divide in America
The Internet is a public utility in Wilson, North Carolina, but that isn’t an option in other rural areas as they struggle with slow and spotty service.
Source: NBC News
Midco’s Fiber Forward program to bring 10 Gbps capable fiber broadband to areas of South Dakota
The expansion will reach more than 150,000 residences and businesses; the first step is service to Sioux Falls and surrounding communities.
Source: Telecompetitor
Education
Managed Vs. Professional IT Services: How They Support Campus Reopening Plans
As universities and colleges ramp up planning for campus reopening, here’s a look at which IT services can be outsourced.
Source: Ed Tech for Higher Ed
School’s Out! But Cyber Criminals Are Here to Stay
In light of an ongoing cyber crime epidemic, federal agencies must take action to update policy definitions, increase spending caps & partner w/ school districts to defend their networks.
Source: Government Technology
Cybersecurity
What Does It Take to Be a Cybersecurity Professional?
With a red-hot job market and great career prospects, more and more people want to know what they have to do to get a cybersecurity job — or better yet a career.
Source: Government Technology
National Cybersecurity Center launched cyber-hygiene app for lawmakers
The app contains a collection of best practices and cybersecurity resources for a non-technical audience.
Source: State Scoop
Government
Mobile Driver’s Licenses Pave the Way for Unified Digital IDs
More states are rolling out digital driver’s licenses. Experts see that trend continuing as federal standards take shape & citizens embrace an improved government experience.
Source: Government Technology
California’s ambitious fiber-Internet plan approved unanimously by legislature
CA to build middle-mile network open to all ISPs and give $2B in last-mile grants.
Source: Ars Technica
Is broadband fast enough for small business owners?
The FCC has not updated its speed benchmark for 6 years. The GAO recommends the FCC determine whether its current definition of broadband meets the needs of small businesses.
Source: US Government Accountability Office
Healthcare
Telehealth services helping doctors reach more patients
Telehealth expands access to specialists and to those who live in rural areas as it could take hours for some people to get to the doctor.
Source: 3 News Now Omaha
Getting Ahead of the Opioid Crisis: Lessons Learned From COVID-19
The recommendations outlined here can help clinicians identify the factors that predispose people to opioid addiction & make targeted interventions before addiction occurs.
Source: Fierce Health
Public Safety
Penn State Putting All First Responders on FirstNet
Penn State is expanding its use of FirstNet, AT&T's dedicated telecommunications network for first responders, to include all its police officers & key personnel across several campuses.
Source: Government Technology
NENA Releases New Version of the i3 Standard for Next Generation 9-1-1
North America’s leading 9-1-1 standards-development body today approved a landmark new version of its Next Generation 9-1-1 standard, a move that will accelerate the transition to smarter, faster, and more resilient emergency response.
Source: NENA 911 Association
The Iowa Communications Network is a state-of-the-art fiber optic network
providing high-speed Internet, data, voice, security, and consulting services to
Iowa's healthcare, education, government, and public safety sectors.
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