Let’s talk infrastructure.
Is there any doubt that the nation’s citizens and small businesses would benefit greatly from a basic free wireless internet service? According to The Wall Street Journal, outgoing Federal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin Martin has little doubt in his mind. In fact, he’s pushing for action this month on a plan to offer free, pornography-free wireless Internet service to all Americans, despite objections from the wireless industry and some consumer groups.
The proposal is part of a larger proposal to auction off a chunk of airwaves. The winning bidder would be required to set aside a quarter of the airwaves for a free Internet service. The winner could establish a paid service that would have a fast wireless Internet connection. The free service could be slower and would be required to filter out pornography and other material not suitable for children. The FCC’s proposal mirrors a plan offered by M2Z Networks Inc., a start-up backed by Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers partner John Doerr.
