McHenry Times

The University of Chicago's Internet Equity Initiative has launched a program called the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program Challenge Process, encouraging residents to participate in measuring the quality of their household's internet service through speed tests. By completing a speed test using the provided tool, individuals can contribute to ensuring accurate information on internet availability for residents in Illinois.

The initiative emphasizes the importance of taking a speed test, stating, "A speed test measures the speed and quality of your internet at a point in time." This data is crucial for accurately mapping out areas with quality internet access and those lacking in connectivity.

Participants are informed that completing and submitting a speed test with their address is just the first step in the process. They will need to conduct two more speed tests on separate days to finalize the assessment, with email reminders sent to assist in the follow-up tests.

Individuals undertaking the BEAD challenge are required to indicate the speed tier of their internet subscription, which refers to the range of download and upload speeds offered by their Internet Service Provider (ISP) under a specific plan. To determine this information, participants are advised to check their latest bill, their ISP's app, or their service agreement.

The collected internet performance data will be analyzed by the University of Chicago's Internet Equity Initiative on behalf of their partners. Participants agree to allow the initiative to analyze and share the data with the state broadband office and the ISP being challenged, with a commitment to privacy and assurance that the data will not be sold.

To ensure accurate results, the initiative provides best practices for conducting speed tests, including being close to a router, using an ethernet cord if available, and avoiding peak usage times when others in the household are streaming videos or gaming.

For inquiries or assistance, individuals are encouraged to reach out to the IEI Team at internetequity@uchicago.edu. The Internet Equity Initiative expresses gratitude for the public's help in enhancing internet access in Illinois, stating, "Thanks for your help improving internet access in Illinois!"