Digital divide may sound like a redundant term to many who are constantly surrounded by cutting-edge technology. However, just because you have the latest mobile gadgets and high-speed internet at your fingertips, it doesn’t mean everyone else does too.
According to , about population does not have access to an internet connection. Imagine being offline 24/7 and missing out on all the privileges that come with the internet – how does it feel?
The United States has one of the highest digital literacy rates, and yet nearly 7% of the population still lacks internet access. Now the question is, what can we do to bridge the digital divide? But first, let’s understand the essence of the term, its causes, and global impact.
What Is the Digital Divide?
Digital Divide Definition: The gap between people who have internet and those who don’t. , the co-founder of Sesame Street (a popular children’s program) and the president of Markle Foundation, was the first to mention the term “digital divide” in 2001.
The digital divide represents the absence of information and communication technology. Previously, it was about not having access to computers and a traditional landline, but now the scope has extended to broadband internet, smartphones, and other advanced digital resources.
Global vs. Local Digital Divide
The global digital divide refers to the disparity in access to information and communications technologies between wealthy (developed) and poorer (developing) countries.
For example, the digital divide is tremendously high in Sub-Saharan Africa, where less than 10% of the population has an electricity supply. In contrast, the digital divide in Iceland is negligible, as the entire population has access to reliable internet.
Local digital divide is about inequalities within a country, primarily between urban and rural populations. Socioeconomic status, race/ethnicity, gender, and relative demographics also influence the accessibility of digital resources.
Real-World Examples of the Digital Divide
If you’re wondering what the digital divide looks like in our times, here’s a glimpse at real-world situations:
1. Internet Access in Rural America
Despite being a highly developed nation, fast and reliable internet isn’t available everywhere in America. Residents from rural and remote areas of the country have limited options because the majority of wired internet providers don’t serve them. For some, satellite internet is the only viable option, which can be quite expensive.
2. Developing Nations Lacking Infrastructure
Many developing nations lack the resources to implement advanced broadband technology on a large scale. For that reason, residential internet largely comes from outdated technology, such as dial-up and DSL. Moreover, cellular internet services almost entirely rely on 3G and 4G networks; the availability of 5G internet is limited or non-existent.
3. Education Gaps During COVID-19
Schools were forced to shift towards a remote learning system during the pandemic, leaving a huge impact on education worldwide. While most developed countries had the resources to adjust to the change, others did not. In several parts of the world, students had to suffer an indefinite break that left long-lasting effects on their mental and physical health.
4. Urban Poor vs Urban Rich
One might assume that the digital divide only exists between urban and rural dwellers, but reality contradicts this. Even though high-speed internet and other digital resources are easily available in metropolitan areas, not everyone can afford them. The lifestyle gap between the urban rich and urban poor might surprise you.
Top Causes of the Digital Divide
Despite the technological boom in the last decade or so, the digital divide remains evident – here’s why:
How the Digital Divide Affects Society
The digital divide influences the quality of education, level of intellect, livelihood opportunities, healthcare, and overall economic growth within the society. Here’s an overview of what happens to underserved communities:
Solutions to Bridge the Digital Divide
The US government, internet service providers (ISPs), and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have taken initiatives to bridge the local digital divide. The following solutions are in the works, though they need to be implemented on a larger scale:
1. Infrastructure Investments
Expansion of modern broadband infrastructures is the key to minimizing the local and global digital divide. Widespread installation of fiber-optic cables and 5G towers can readily resolve rural connectivity problems. Several ISPs are expanding their network to include underserved communities, despite the challenges.
2. Low-Cost Broadband Programs
Many ISPs understand the digital divide between the urban-rich and urban-poor; hence, they offer relatively cheaper plans to facilitate consumers on a tight budget. Most of these plans are contract-free, and some don’t even require a credit check, which is a relief for people living paycheck to paycheck or struggling with poor credit.
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Internet Providers with No Credit Check or Deposit in 2025
3. Digital Literacy Education
Including digital literacy tools and training in the curriculum of grade/elementary schools is a great way to tackle the issue at the roots; children from underprivileged homes will get equal opportunities to develop and sharpen necessary digital skills. Moreover, adults and seniors can he encouraged to learn digital skills through free programs/workshops organized by their community.
4. Government & NGO Efforts
Many people from low-income households were able to pay for internet service through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Unfortunately, ACP ended in 2024, and those relying on it were cut off. The good news is that other low-income assistance programs by the government, ISPs, and NGOs exist to replace ACP benefits.
5. Public Wi-Fi Networks
Public Wi-Fi networks play a huge role in bridging the digital divide. Users who don’t have an internet connection at home or cannot afford a mobile data plan may work or study online through public hotspots. Furthermore, many residential internet providers offer free Wi-Fi hotspots to subscribers so they can connect to a secure internet on the go.
ISPs that offer Free Wi-Fi Hotspots Nationwide
Future of the Digital Divide (2025–2030)
Initiatives and collaborations between the public and private sectors have immensely contributed to shrinking the digital divide; financial assistance programs, free online courses, and public Wi-Fi facilities have proven to be useful and effective.
Furthermore, the rapid expansion of 5G networks and satellite internet services like Starlink has connected many rural and remote areas across the US. As long as the efforts continue, the near future of the digital divide looks reassuring. What are your thoughts on this?
FAQs
Does the digital divide still exist?
Yes, about one-third of the world’s population does not have access to the internet and basic digital devices. The technology access inequality is the foundation of the global digital divide.
What are the benefits of the digital divide?
While the digital divide is indeed a serious global issue, it is assumed to be beneficial in a few ways:
- It helps certain communities preserve their culture or a conservative society
- It regulates competition for jobs requiring digital skills
- It allows the rich and privileged to stay that way
Who is most affected by the digital divide?
People residing in poor/developing countries, low-income households, and rural/remote areas suffer the most because of a digital divide.
