Rural Alaska Towards Internet Access and Equity

In today’s interconnected world, the Internet is a gateway to education, healthcare, communication, career opportunities, and much more. However, Internet access remains absent for many in rural and remote regions. This could not be more true than in Alaska’s expansive environment and rugged terrain, where many are left with limited to no access. Rural Alaska often finds itself overshadowed in discussions about internet connectivity and technological amenities compared to its urban counterparts. As technology advances, access to the Internet is not just an amenity but rapidly becoming an integral part of life.This paper examines Internet equity in rural Alaska and possible and substantial solutions for equitable access to Alaska. We look into why establishing Internet infrastructure proves to be a difficult task in remote areas of Alaska. Understanding the challenges of establishing connectivity in remote regions like rural Alaska can help us understand and address similar issues in other remote areas, such as Northern Canada.