Opportunity Online is granting assistance in the form of funding, technical support, and associated training for at least two years per public library. This program is primarily focused on assisting public libraries that are in turn serving bigger populations. Public libraries that are almost vulnerable to having obsolete technology are prioritized. Eligible libraries should at the same time be able to secure funding commitments before receiving any grant from the program. This is to make sure there is appropriate community support for maintenance of computer upgrades.

It is estimated that about 40% of the US population are still not enjoying Internet access at their homes. Thus, public libraries are serving and facilitating critical link between users and technology, especially to many who are not able to afford getting Internet access services on their own. It is not surprising that currently, millions of Americans are using Internet through public libraries in different purposes like earning long-distance education degrees, starting and advancing small businesses, finding critical information on jobs, learning better English, getting e-government services and information, and many more.

Most public libraries are applying for potential grants from Opportunity Online because Internet access has really become among the most essential services that are required by people. Library administrators assert that their facilities must be able to maintain technology tools to help more people access and use information and services offered online.

However, there are still many concerns and requirements that many public libraries should address as they start and keep facilitating Internet access to numerous users. First, the average 256 KBPS connection to Internet network has to be ramped up. At present, most libraries that are capable to connect online are not able to support bandwidth traffic activities like MP3 downloading (for sound and video files), video-streaming, and other forms of interactive communication.

Opportunity Online could commit to investing in public libraries’ connectivity, training, research, and even advocacy. The program could not in any way fully takeover or fund what public libraries need. That is why aside from Opportunity Online grants, libraries should also secure other support from local governments and non-government organizations in their communities. The program is set to only jumpstart the initiative. In the long run, public libraries are expected to be able to support their online services on their own.

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, based in Seattle, is working to help many people lead productive, comfortable, and healthy lives. The organization is guided accordingly by the belief that every single life has real and equal value. Within developing countries, the foundation is focused on helping people improve their health and providing opportunities for them to stay out of hunger and burden from possible extreme poverty. In the US, the foundation seeks to make sure all people get the ability to seize opportunities to succeed. That is why providing Internet access is one of the priority projects of the organization.

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If there is no Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) or wired Internet connection in an area, there could be a possibility that there is 3G signal, especially in urban centers. To date, more and more people are using 3G mobile broadband because the technology is getting more popular and is being facilitated by a greater number of mobile carriers across the globe. The technology is carried through cellular data networks, which make it more accessible than any other Internet access forms.

3G access to the Internet is widespread but it is still not ubiquitous. While the service could be available in most urban centers, some carriers are providing the technology across several rural areas. Internet access without 3G could still be possible through cellular data networks through 2G, GPRS, or other earlier mobile network technologies.

To be able to receive and utilize 3G signal for Internet access, there are special devices and handy modems that are used. In many cases, such devices are tied exclusively to particular 3G services of carriers. They are small and are lightweight; some even weigh as light as less than a pound. Because the devices are small, they could be conveniently carried wherever a user goes, whenever.

There are even notebook computers and laptops that are manufactured with built-in cellular or 3G modems. For laptops that do not offer the feature as a standard, the modems could be an optional upgrade. Like in most 3G devices, these built-in modems in several laptop models are also tied to specific 3G services of certain mobile carriers. In most cases, such 3G connection requires entering into one-year or two-year locked-in contracts, with specific monthly fees that average $40.

Some carriers offer 3G Internet access through prepaid schemes. This way, online connectivity is charged per minute, per 30 minutes, or even per hour. Some products offer Internet 3G access on a daily basis. In comparison to regular dial-up, DSL, and other fixed broadband services, Internet access via 3G could still be considered as relatively costly. Mobile carriers assert that it still could not be possible to drop prices due to high technology and operational costs.

Aside from the 3G devices and built-in modems in laptops, 3G Internet access could be facilitated through mobile phones, especially those models that are capable of using 3G and of tethering. Tethering is the process of connecting to the Internet through mobile phones, which serve as practical and actual wireless Internet modems. The data could be connected to the laptop or computer wirelessly or through a special cable. Many users are now using their mobile phones as 3G Internet modems, but the technology could still be considered relatively expensive.

3G as a technology for facilitating Internet access is getting more popular. It is expected that in the coming years, wide and massive use of the technology and intense competition among carriers could help bring down the costs. For now, Internet access via 3G could be useful and reliable for people who need temporary and outdoor connectivity. For heavy users, broadband and wired services could still be more advisable.

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To be able to illustrate and visualize a scenario that could arise from an online access lockdown, it would be helpful if what happened in Xinjiang province in China could be looked at. During the first week of July 2009, the Chinese government blocked Internet access in all of Xinjiang. The measure was a form of security action after an alleged Muslim ethnic minority grouped used social networking sites and instant messaging programs to plan, implement, and conduct a series of violent attacks against a Han Chinese ethnic majority group.

After about 200 people were killed and around 1,600 were injured, China said it decided to prevent further spread of violent riots through blocking Internet access in the entire province. For several weeks, there was no form of Internet connection in the area. The measure was effective as the violent attacks apparently subsided. But it took sometime before Internet access was restored because the government had to make sure several groups would not resume to using online media to perpetuate crime against other people and groups.

What was the major implication of the lockdown? In general, the action crippled and slowed down operations of most local companies, specifically those that rely on online operations. Businessmen and firms were left worried for a few weeks about when Internet access could resume. The result: many local businesses incurred major losses, some even were threatened to close shops for good.

In a non-democratic nation like China, Internet access is useful mainly for business purposes, although some people are able to use the media for entertainment albeit at certain restrictions and censorship. Because most companies are heavily reliant on the Internet for basic operations, there was a disaster when online media was cut down. Most business transactions were prevented and blocked.

Many smaller firms are basically e-businesses. Logically, they are the most affected by such government action. Big companies could somehow take cushion on several weeks of losses and impairment of operations. But many smaller e-companies could be threatened to fold businesses altogether. If the lockdown spelled disaster in China, could you imagine how worse the situation could be if it happened in the US, in Europe, or in other countries and cities where people and businesses are all heavily reliant on the Internet?

Is an internet lockdown possible in other countries? This could be a subject of debate. In general, most free and democratic nations are ruling out the possibility. But a total blockage of Internet access could still be possible if problems arise and affect infrastructure and physical lines. In other countries, an online lockdown could be caused by disasters and natural calamities.

Thus, it is important that businesses establish good and reliable contingency measures to counter possible setbacks if Internet access is disabled. It could be a difficult situation to get into, but it is always a possibility. While the online media is helpful and is really important, users should learn how to conduct operations continuously even when the Internet runs out.

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US President elect Barrack Obama has made the broadband nationalization project part of his priorities, as promised during the presidential campaign of 2008. This way, the government is hoping Internet access would be made more possible, more affordable, and more convenient even across underserved areas in the country. Affordable and reliable high-speed Internet seems to be part of a more important economic platform the Obama administration is gearing for.

The US government looks at high-speed Internet access as a successful and potential driver of the country’s economic growth in the short- to long-term. When the US Congress assigned the FCC to develop a national broadband plan, it emphasized that the action is aimed at accelerating economic growth. It is hopeful and is certain that a more developed broadband Internet infrastructure in the US could help create more good-paying jobs, spur better and more useful innovations, and effectively connect small businesses to make them even more competitive and progressive.

A well-developed Internet facility across the nation is also seen as essential for improvement of educational opportunities, better delivery of healthcare, and further revamping of basic operations of fire fighters and police, who could rely on improved communications for better implementation and enforcement of overall public safety and orderliness. At the same time, cleaner energy at basically lower costs could also be made more possible.

US citizens are expected to get involved in the national broadband rolling out and development process. In the third to last quarter of 2009, FCC is set to host national discussions and forums to tackle the design of the national Internet access plan. Such talks would be open for the public participation through actual meetings in designated centers and even online.

The government is expecting the public to describe the broadband needs and requirements of their communities. They are also expected to air aspirations and hopes for the improvement and better implementation of the National Broadband plan. This way, the US government is helping itself make sure that no sector or communities in the country would be left behind prior to rolling out of effective broadband infrastructure.

For its part, FCC as a bureau is tasked of taking a pivotal role for the promotion of competition, innovation, investment, and job creation across the national wireless sector. The agency has set up its own specialized team to provide expertise and additional support for seizing the opportunity as the US aims to take the lead in global mobile communications. Throughout the year, and prior to actual launch and implementation of the project, FCC is set to conduct more preparatory initiatives to further set the stage for the national broadband effort.

It is expected that the US government would succeed in creating a more reliable and better online infrastructure. Soon, Internet access anywhere in the country would not be a problem anymore. It could only take several months.

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Through the years, Internet access and connection has evolved. Now, there are many ways to connect to the online media. Internet access could be done through more than one way. People could use dial-up, wireless, Wi-Fi, mobile, or broadband connections. Here are basic and comprehensive descriptions of such types of Internet connection.

Dial-up connections — This is definitely the most basic and common type of online connection. It is provided by Internet service providers. Practically, dial-up connection is the least expensive and slowest of all Internet connections. This type is able to connect users to the online media through a local server that uses a standard modem (56 kilobits per second). The process is quite simple, but relatively tedious. The computer and its modem dial a designated telephone number (provided by specific ISP or telephone line provider). Upon connection, Internet access is enabled. To some online users, dial-up connection is almost obsolete and useless because of the emergence of faster and more sophisticated types of connections.

Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Lines — This is an early form of broadband online connection that could provide varying data transfer rates. Internet connection works through splitting functions of a basic phone line into several separate channels for data and voice calls. Thus, any user could use the phone while being connected to the Internet, an action that is impossible in regular dial-up connections. DSL or direct service line online services are common these days and are available at different and preferred configurations.

Cable Internet — Through the years, conventional cable television has been preferred all around the world because of its ability to transfer clear and excellent television signals. These days, cables are also used for Internet connectivity. Some TV cable firms also offer cable Internet as a side service, while there are some businesses that primarily and singly offer cable Internet. This type of connection is well preferred because more data are conveyed at faster rates through the cable lines, especially the fiber optic types. Usually, speed and prices of cable Internet services overlap those of DSL. Cable Internet access currently targets high-end users who are willing to pay a premium.

Wi-Fi — Most Internet users now prefer to connect online via Wi-Fi. This is because this type of connection is wireless, is fast, and is very convenient. You do not have to be home to access Wi-Fi Internet. All you have to do is to find a ‘hotspot’ (designated places that provide Wi-Fi Internet access) and connect your laptop for free (in some cases through certain fee structures). Most commercial establishments these days (like malls, gyms, parking lots, campuses, libraries, caf

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As you know, Internet access is not cheap. The traditional dial-up connection could be reasonable and less costly, but it takes so much patience and perseverance to use it. It is very slow that it could not facilitate downloading bigger files. Several online activities and services could also be not possible. Thus, you are left but to use DSL, broadband, or other faster connecting and more powerful online connections. You would surely enjoy faster speed and you would be able to do more online tasks, but fees are bigger in comparison.

It is better if you would be able to maximize your Internet access. Most online services these days are provided without limitations; hence, you could use them 24/7 without incurring additional fees and charges. They are having fixed costs. It would be practical and ideal if you would make use of the service to the fullest. Aside from the common online activities, why not use the connection to earn extra income?

You have probably heard about people who make money online. Some buy and sell products and services, others earn from advertising and affiliate marketing, while several earn through creating and designing Websites. If you are spending idle hours doing nothing online, why not be productive and use the connection for you to be able to earn extra income? The Internet offers a wide array of opportunities and chances.

Are you a good marketer? You should realize that the Internet is now a good venue for marketing, distributing, and selling products and services. Most marketers prefer to do transactions online because of convenience and security. Who would not like the idea of having to sell and market just by being at home? Many consumers and buyers of goods and services now prefer to transact online. Affiliate marketing helps some marketers earn more money just by selling products for other people and marketers. Try it as it is becoming a good alternative source of money online.

Are you good at conceptualizing and writing content? Why not put up your own Website or blog? These days, Websites earn if there are many online users that regularly visit such sites. This applies the basic principles of advertising. The more interesting and popular your Website becomes, the more likely is it to attract heavy advertisers, who are willing to pay just to promote or sell their products and services. Starting up a blog could help you get on track. Many bloggers now earn extra income.

You could sell your skills and services online. If you are a great writer, layout artist, web designer, or Internet marketer, you could advertise yourself through joining forums and circulating emails. There are so many opportunities and possibilities. Just be determined to maximize your Internet access and for sure, in no time, you would be able to make your investment worth it.

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Major global airlines are now offering Internet access even while planes are flying. Air carriers are entering into partnership with wireless Internet access providers to provide online connection to people who are on board. The technology is still a new one, but it is one that is fast gaining popularity. Many passengers have been complaining about not being able to access Internet while on flights. Now, those complaints could be all gone.

Many businessmen hate long-haul trips not because of the tediousness and long hours of travel but because they are missing a lot. Some business people prefer to stay online even while away from the office to be able to monitor goings-on in the workplace and to retrieve important data and information. Most of them also want to stay connected via email and online messaging services. Now, no matter how far and how long air travel could get, there is no excuse for not being able to stay online.

While during the 1990s, further improvements in telephone communications was the focus of customer and industry interests, the new millennium has shifted the focus to better Internet access. To date, mobile Internet access has become really popular after being widely deployed particularly at ground level. From there, telecom and air navigation industries are now focusing at offering mobile online connectivity even on a moving plane.

The need for Internet access while on board airplanes come as modern air travelers acknowledge their necessities to acquire more than the simple voice services they usually get to be able to connect to the world even while on journey. Web access provide more complex information-based services like emailing, virtual private networking, and instant messaging to be able to secure reliable access to corporate networks.

How was it made possible? The first and initial phases of the effort involved inter-twined ground access wireless towers. But because this strategy does not yield satisfactory and good results, plus there are limitations on long-haul flights, another way of online connection was sought. Now, most Internet access providers on flights use different satellite services for online transmission. Through using routers and Wi-Fi connection facilities, airplanes are now made online, anyone with a laptop could log online anytime he wants and needs to.

Is the service costly? Because the feature is still new in the airline industry, additional charges of about an average $13 is imposed for anyone who voluntarily applies for the service. Most airlines could still not waive the cost and offer the service for free because Internet access through satellite systems is costing them much. It is said that if not because of the further intensifying competition, airlines would not resort to offering Internet access in flights.

However, the usefulness and reliability could not be underestimated. Internet access provided by planes is really among the most popular, sought-after, and well-raved about features and services offered by airlines and Internet service providers. Many more airlines are expected to follow suit and start offering in-flight Web access.

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The $32 billion figure was derived through considering several important factors. It was found that actual valuation imposed by consumers to their broadband services totaled $60 billion. From the figure, actual amount of access costs for the year was deducted, which was $28 billion. The $32 billion figure is obviously significant and enormous.

Findings of the study and the estimate reveals that broadband Internet access is currently considered a basic necessity among US citizens. Many households now consider Internet connection as among the necessary utilities. This is not surprising because as mentioned, almost all important transactions could be facilitated through the Internet. People could now shop, reserve tickets, do research, get entertainment, and do almost anything imaginable online.

What are the basic benefits from Internet access aside from those mentioned? Consumers find the online media beneficial especially when they are transacting for education, work, health care, communication, news, civic affairs, and entertainment. In fact, many companies are now heavily investing to further strengthen their online market foothold. This is because almost all significant businesses are now online, as many consumers now prefer to transact businesses online as well.

The same research has found that adoption of home broadband services has increased to about six times since 2001. In 2008, about 66.6 million households were having regular broadband Internet connection, from just about 10.4 million households in 2001. The drastic rise is very obvious. No other emerging technology has been warmly accepted in American households like broadband Internet access. Dial-up and other inferior Internet access connections were even excluded in the figure.

In line with this, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan has allotted $7.2 billion for further development and improvement of the current broadband Internet infrastructure in the country. The body has entrusted the amount to the US Federal Communications Commission, which is currently developing its massive national broadband strategy. The project is aimed at furthering empowering the government to establish a partnership with private sector in helping deliver better, faster, and more reliable Internet access to more household across the US.

The proponents of the study asserted that the research was able to meet its goals, which was to quantify recent growth in value of broadband Internet access, as seen and perceived by American consumers and users. The study was the first one that dealt with this quantification. The $32 billion estimate for annual Internet access benefits to consumers is expected to further rise in the coming years.

Many analysts and observers note that Internet access and infrastructure in the US is not as developed and as strong as its counterparts in certain countries in Europe. However, because of the fact that Americans are heavy Internet users, market observers believe the US government would not let local Internet infrastructure lag behind. This of course is good news to most American consumers who are into using broadband Internet access for basic transactions.

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The United Nations is currently pushing to make countries consider Internet access as a human right. The organization made the push when it started calling for universal access to important and basic information and communication services at the assembly of UN Administrative Committee on Coordination during the onset of the 21st century. The UN seems really determined to make it happen. Aside from that initial move, in 2003, it also pushed for the same cause when it addressed delegates of the World Summit on Information Society.

Have you heard of countries that already acted on the call? Currently, France, Estonia, and Greece have enacted and enforced laws that make Internet access as a human right. This surprises other nations, but for consumers who know how important and useful online media is, it is just about time. Many observers, analysts, and advocates are waiting for the time more other countries follow suit. It is expected that in no time, many other nations and governments would do likewise.

Millions of consumers and online users are logging online everyday to use and enjoy the services offered across the Internet. As the number of online users rise, so is the number of Websites that are currently operational. It is estimated that every hour, tens of new online sites are being developed and rolled out. Most businesses these days are putting up and strengthening their online presence.

What could consumers do while online? As mentioned, basic transactions could now be conducted and completed through the Internet. People could shop for clothes, collectors’ items, foods, gadgets, appliances, furniture, jewels, and just about anything through the Internet. Specific online sites could also sell concert, movie, plane, and even ferry tickets. Aside from shopping, people could also do basic banking transactions online, like depositing and transferring of funds.

What’s more? Entertainment could easily be accessed online. Some movies, videos, news streams, and amateur clips could be downloaded through the Internet. Computer applications and software could be electronically sold, sent, and downloaded online as well. Booking and reservations for accommodations in other cities and countries could also be done. Whatever transaction, it seems that the Internet could now make it possible for anyone to complete activities and payments online.

Internet access is made for convenience. Now, people do not have to leave their homes to buy anything. Online shopping sites could facilitate online buying and selling of goods and services. To most consumers, this could translate to big savings in time, in efforts, and in money. It is just not surprising why many users and consumers turn to the Internet for basic services and transactions.

If many people are now enjoying the usefulness and advantage of the online media, why would others be spared from enjoying the same perks and functionalities? If Internet access would successfully be made a human right, more people would surely enjoy and use it for their own benefit.

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If you could secure a conventional wired landline telephone line, you could secure Internet access through dial up. However, you have to be really patient in using the online connectivity because the speed of connection is really inferior compared to your regular DSL or broadband. Furthermore, most notebook computer models these days do not feature dial up connectivity anymore. Technically, dial-up Internet access is almost obsolete due to the popularity and massive use of faster Internet services.

Here are some guidelines or insights that could help you keep Internet access while you get out of your home or office. These tips are aimed at securing online connectivity with faster connection speeds.

Find out about Internet access options. Before you go on a vacation or trip, find out if there is broadband service provided in the hotel where you would be staying. These days, most vacation and travel accommodations offer Wi-Fi Internet access. You could opt to choose to stay at hotels that provide free wired or wireless Internet services. Otherwise, you could opt to access Internet through library, caf

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