In an effort to ensure faster internet speeds for U.S. customers, the head of the Federal Communications Commission proposed increasing the minimum speed from 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload to 100 Mbps/20 Mbps.
In addition, Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel set a separate goal of 1 Gbps/500 Mbps for the future.
“The needs of internet users long ago surpassed the FCC’s 25/3 speed metric, especially during a global health pandemic that moved so much of life online,” said Chairwoman Rosenworcel.
“The 25/3 metric isn’t just behind the times, it’s a harmful one because it masks the extent to which low-income neighborhoods and rural communities are being left behind and left offline. That’s why we need to raise the standard for minimum broadband speeds now and while also aiming even higher for the future, because we need to set big goals if we want everyone everywhere to have a fair shot at 21st-century success.”
The proposed 100/20 metric aligns with the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Within the program, 20 internet providers, including larger companies like AT&T and Verizon Fios, offer high-speed internet plans for $30/mo, allowing anyone to receive the $30/mo. stipend from the ACP to get internet service for free.
The $30/mo. high-speed plans offer a minimum of 100 Mbps download speed, which is fast enough for a family of four to video conference, stream videos and more.
Chairwoman Rosenworcel also proposes that the FCC look into “affordability, adoption, availability, and equitable access as part of its determination if broadband is being deployed” in a timely way.
The proposal kicked off the agency’s annual evaluation of the state of broadband in the U.S.
Allconnect: Let us compare providers for you
Why should you choose Allconnect? We’re the #1 broadband marketplace in the U.S, meaning you can trust us to search, compare and order internet and TV service for your home.
Get started
Written by:
Robin LaytonSenior Editor, Broadband Content
Robin Layton is a Senior Editor for Allconnect, dedicated to helping consumers navigate the often-complex world of internet service providers. With 30 years of experience in journalism and marketing, Robin empow…
Read more

Edited by:
Joe SupanPrincipal Writer, Broadband Content
-
FeaturedACP program allows eligible households to get high-speed internet for free Robin Layton — 2 min read
-
FeaturedA guide to internet resources for Native Americans Camryn Smith — 4 min read
-
FeaturedAdvertised vs. actual internet speeds — Are you getting the internet speeds you pay for? Joe Supan — 5 min read
Latest
-
Tuesday, May 20, 2025
Americans are getting over 287 Mbps in download speed, but are you?Robin Layton — 7 min read
-
Monday, May 19, 2025
State-by-state guide to keeping kids safe onlineLisa Iscrupe — 11 min read
-
Friday, May 9, 2025
Report: 1 in 5 households is not connected to the internetCamryn Smith — 5 min read