Time to upgrade the Internet

A new worldwide survey finds that the United States is doing a decent job with its Internet infrastructure--but there's still room for improvement. The nation comes in fourth in a worldwide survey regarding national network readiness. It is behind three European nations and ahead of many others. The survey, reported on in The New York Times, shows just how much more the United States must do to become the best. There are clear gaps in broadband service, including download speed, which must increase. And there is definitely a need for a better political and regulatory environment in order to make a better Internet.

Complicating this issue is a government that is slow to adapt to changes while imposing difficult rules. It's time to pressure the political leadership, on behalf of the national IT community, to exert its influence and get far ahead of the curve. Getting to the top will be crucial if this nation is to retain its economic prowess in this new century. -Judi