Coronavirus pandemic amplifies internet access and digital divide

As some people continue to work and learn from home six months into the coronavirus pandemic, reliable and fast internet access is as important as ever. But in rural communities without access to broadband, or for those who simply can’t afford it, the shift to doing everything from home becomes even more complicated. While the lack of internet access among rural or lower-income communities isn’t a new problem, it’s especially apparent now. It’s a challenge for IT departments as they support employees without reliable internet. And it’s a talent problem--while remote work policies can expand a talent pool, it’s difficult to recruit and employ a candidate with slow internet. Businesses, ISPs, future technology and government can all play a role in assisting these communities. Zeus Kerravala, founder and Principal Analyst at ZK Research joins Juliet to discuss what options are available for people without reliable internet access, how enterprises can help and how promising technology like 5G will play a role.