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Author: Abi Breaur

Utah Policy Guest Opinion: Bridging the digital divide

Posted on by Abi Breaur

Access to reliable high-speed internet is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity. Yet for many Utahns, especially in rural or rapidly growing suburban areas, high-quality broadband remains out of reach. Students, families, and small businesses all face the same challenge: a digital divide that limits opportunities and growth.

Although Utah ranks well for connectivity, state data shows that more than 60,000 locations remain unserved or underserved, including roughly 43,000 with no reliable access at all. This gap underscores the need to bring high-speed internet to every part of our state.

Utah Broadband was founded to serve the underserved, focusing on communities that larger providers overlooked. More than 20 years later, that mission still guides us. As a locally operated company—supported by our parent company, Boston Omaha—we take pride in caring for our customers and doing everything we can to help the communities we call home.

Federal programs such as the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) initiative—the largest broadband infrastructure effort in U.S. history—are helping expand connectivity. Recent program updates allow providers to use a mix of fiber, fixed wireless, and other technologies, such as satellite, to meet federal standards while prioritizing cost efficiency and broader coverage. In Utah, satellite internet providers played a significant role in BEAD awards, influencing how funds were distributed and shaping the path forward for local providers.

With Utah’s unique geography, a combination of technologies is essential. Fixed wireless is often the most practical solution for hard-to-reach terrain, while fiber offers exceptional long-term performance in more populated areas. Satellite internet plays a critical role in remote locations or areas without the infrastructure for ground-based solutions. Utah Broadband uses both fiber and fixed wireless to meet the diverse needs of the communities we serve, ensuring residents have reliable options that fit their environment.

Broadband access is about more than speed—it is about opportunity. Students deserve equal access to educational tools, families need reliable telehealth options, and local businesses rely on strong connectivity to compete and grow. Closing the digital divide strengthens every facet of community life.

Success requires collaboration among policymakers, service providers, and residents. Utah now has a generational opportunity to ensure no community is left behind, and by working with local governments, civic organizations, and federal partners, we can make that happen. With the right combination of technology, funding, and local engagement, we can bring reliable internet to all Utahns. Our goal is not just to provide broadband, but to empower the people and communities we serve.

By working together, we can create a Utah where everyone has access to the high-speed internet they need to thrive in the digital age.

Ben Elkins, CEO of Utah Broadband

Utah Broadband working to bridge the digital divide

Posted on by Abi Breaur

The Internet for All initiative, launched by President Joe Biden’s administration, has a goal of connecting reliable, affordable high-speed internet to everyone in America by 2030. Utah Broadband is part of that national multibillion-dollar effort. The company is poised to expand its fiber footprint in the Heber and Park City areas and its fixed wireless network in some of the more rural areas. Wallsburg and Silver Summit are among the places where Utah Broadband is expanding. 

“We’re extremely active in Summit County, trying to provide fiber or high-speed wireless internet to as many customers as we can,” CEO Ben Elkins said.

Utah Broadband, a subsidiary of Boston Omaha, is using government grants and private capital for the projects. The company has been providing wireless internet in the state since 2002 and offering high-speed fiber since 2021. 

The company has 30,000 customers in Utah, about 5,000 to 6,000 of them in Summit and Wasatch counties, though not to date in Park City proper. The other counties where Utah Broadband operates are Davis, Salt Lake, Tooele, Utah, and Weber. Its business customers in the state total about 3,000, with about 2,000 of them in rural areas.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, signed in 2021 by Biden, included $42.45 billion to connect Americans to internet service while providing connected devices and digital skills training to those who need it.

“High-speed internet is no longer a luxury — it is necessary for Americans to do their jobs, to participate equally in school, access health care, and to stay connected with family and friends,” a White House announcement in 2023 about the funding said. “Yet, more than 8.5 million households and small businesses are in areas where there is no high-speed internet infrastructure, and millions more struggle with limited or unreliable internet options.”

The act established the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program, which provided $42.45 billion of funding to achieve high-speed broadband access to every unserved and underserved location throughout the United States, including in lower-income areas and rural areas. 

The Trump administration later made some changes designed to lower costs, including eliminating the “fiber preference” to take a technology-neutral approach. 

Fiber is more expensive and sometimes difficult to install in Utah because of the state’s terrain, especially in some of the rural areas. If possible, Utah Broadband deploys fiber in the open trenches for utilities before the developments are built, Elkins said. 

In other circumstances, a high-speed fixed wireless or a satellite option might be more cost effective, he said. 

About 70% of customers have wireless internet and 30% have fiber, according to Elkins. A study in Arizona showed that fiber adds $2,500 to $3,000 to the value of a home, he said. 

Utah Broadcast is also making a push in the Wasatch Back to connect small and medium-sized businesses. 

Among other projects outside of the Wasatch Back, Utah Broadband, in partnership with the South Utah Valley Electrical Service District, is installing fiber in West Mountain, which borders Payson in Utah County, and is also growing in Eden in Weber County.

Elkins predicts 90% to 95% of Americans will have reliable high-speed internet by the end of the decade. More people are using more things in their home that require bandwidth, he said, citing as examples televisions, Ring devices, tablets and Apple watches.

“A lot of people’s refrigerators are now connected,” Elkins said. “Your thermostats are connected. If you start adding it up, a lot of people have 12, 14, 15 devices in the home. So there is a need for  more and more bandwidth in the home as there are more and more technology changes.” 

By Pamela Manson for The Park Record

Utah Broadband is Working to Bridge the Digital Divide in Northern Utah.

Utah Broadband GigWave: Fiber-Like Speeds, Delivered Wirelessly

Posted on by Abi Breaur

Utah Broadband, a trusted local high-speed internet provider, offers GigWave, a customized Ubiquiti Wave line. This advanced wireless broadband solution uses 60 GHz technology to deliver multi-gigabit speeds with the flexibility of wireless and the performance of fiber without the long delays or high cost of traditional construction.

Built for both Point-to-Multipoint (PtMP) and Point-to-Point (PtP) applications, GigWave uses a 60 GHz primary radio paired with 5 GHz Wi-Fi 6 backup to ensure fast, stable connections in a wide range of environments, even during inclement weather. 

“GigWave enables us to deliver high-speed internet more quickly and affordably, offering fiber-like performance without the delays of traditional construction,” said Ben Elkins, CEO of Utah Broadband. “Its flexibility allows us to connect areas that are often difficult to serve, while still providing the reliability and quality our customers count on.”

GigWave Delivers Key Benefits

  • Up to 1 Gig Speeds— GigWave delivers fast and reliable internet, perfect for streaming, gaming, working from home, and powering smart home devices.
  • Automatic Redundancy—A built-in 5 GHz backup radio ensures uninterrupted service in rain or obstruction, automatically kicking in when needed.
  • Tailored for Your Needs—GigWave hardware comes in various models, allowing Utah Broadband to tailor coverage for neighborhoods, businesses, and rural areas. Select devices even provide dedicated connections for high-demand users. 
  • Weather-Resistant Hardware—GigWave equipment is built tough with UV-stabilized materials and an IPX6 rating to withstand Utah’s climate. 

A Smarter Alternative to Fiber

GigWave offers a faster-to-deploy, cost-effective solution that rivals fiber in performance for many real-world applications. With Utah Broadband’s local expertise and commitment to reliability, GigWave gives customers the speed they need without the wait. “Our goal has always been to make fast, dependable internet accessible to more people,” added Elkins. “GigWave helps us do that in a way that’s smart, efficient, and built for the future.”

To learn more, visit utahbroadband.com or call (801) 717-2002.

UBB Launches Parental Controls for Safer Internet this Summer

Posted on by Abi Breaur

As summer kicks off and kids spend more time at home and on their devices, Utah Broadband is helping parents take charge of their children’s online safety with new parental control features for families using Calix GigaSpire routers. Powered by ExperienceIQ, these tools make it easy to monitor and manage internet use, especially important during the summer months when screen time often increases. 

Putting Safety First: Smart Tools for a Safer Online Experience

With kids and teens spending more unsupervised hours on devices during summer, Utah Broadband’s ExperienceIQ offers powerful, easy-to-use tools that help families stay protected: 

  • Custom User Profiles: Tailor controls for each child with assigned devices and unique settings.

  • Content Filtering: Block unsafe or unwanted websites and categories, such as adult content, gaming, or social media.
  • Scheduled Downtime: Set internet-free times for activities such as outdoor activities, meals, or bedtime.
  • Instant Pause: Hit pause on any device in the moment for screen breaks, chores, or important conversations.
  • Bandwidth Prioritization: Ensure streaming and video calls for work or learning always come through clearly.
  • Usage Reports: Stay informed with detailed insights into who’s using what and when.

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    A Digital Lifeline for Parents

    “In today’s digital age, it’s not just about staying connected, it’s about staying protected,” said Ben Elkins, CEO of Utah Broadband. “Especially during the summer months when school is out and routines are looser, parents need the right tools to guide and safeguard their kids’ online experiences.”

    The timing couldn’t be more critical. Recent research shows that 71% of children aged 9-13 have encountered harmful online content, yet two-thirds of parents haven’t set up any form of parental controls. On the other hand, 76% of parents who do use these tools report that they’ve had a positive impact on keeping their children safe. 

    Internet safety with Utah Broadband.

    Utah Broadband: A Trusted Partner in Family Safety

    This latest enhancement is part of Utah Broadband’s broader mission to support the communities it serves with not just fast, reliable internet, but solutions that make everyday life safer and simpler. 

    “At Utah Broadband, we see ourselves as more than a service provider; we’re a partner in helping families thrive,” added Elkins. “By offering features like advanced parental controls, we aim to support families in creating safe and productive online environments, reflecting our ongoing commitment to community well-being and responsible corporate citizenship.”

     

    Unlock Freedom & Savings with UBB’s Vacation Hold

    Posted on by Abi Breaur

    Perfect for Snowbirds, Second-Home Owners, Seasonal Renters, and Others Spending Time Away From Their Utah Property.

    Utah Broadband (UBB), the state’s most trusted provider of high-speed fiber and wireless internet, has announced the launch of its new Vacation Hold program, a solution created specifically for customers who spend extended time away from their Utah homes. 

    Designed for snowbirds, second-homeowners, seasonal renters, and part-time residents, the Vacation Hold program offers a convenient way to reduce internet costs while staying connected to essential smart home devices. 

    A Smarter Way to Hit Pause

    The Vacation Hold program allows customers to temporarily scale back their internet service for up to six months per calendar year. While on hold, customers pay just $20 monthly, plus applicable equipment rental fees for devices such as routers, IP addresses, or Wi-Fi extenders. 

    Internet speeds during the hold period are reduced to 15 Mbps download and 5 Mbps upload, which is sufficient to support basic functions like: Smart Thermostats, Security Cameras, Smart Lighting, or Remote Access Systems.

    This means customers can maintain control over their homes while away, without paying for full-speed internet they’re not using. 

    Seamless Service Resumption 

    One key advantage of the Vacation Hold program is how easy it is to restart service. Since the equipment remains installed and operational, customers can quickly return to full-speed internet when they return, with no technician appointments or reinstallation needed. To resume service, simply submit the Restore Service form on our website or call in to speak with one of our friendly customer service team members.

    Simple Enrollment Options

    Activating or ending Vacation Hold is designed to be quick and convenient. Customers can:

    According to Ben Elkins, CEO of Utah Broadband, “Our Vacation Hold program is all about convenience. Whether you’re heading south for the winter or away for just a few months, it lets you keep your smart home devices online and seamlessly pick up where you left off.”

    Designed With Flexibility in Mind

    This program is ideal for those who:

    • Spend winters in warmer states
    • Rent out their Utah home only seasonally 
    • Travel extensively and want to keep basic connectivity
    • Use Utah properties as vacation homes

    To learn more about how Utah Broadband’s Vacation Hold program can simplify your time away, visit utahbroadband.com/vacation-hold or call 801-717-2000. Whether you’re planning an extended getaway or escaping the snow for the season, we’re here to keep your home connected and your internet service as flexible as your lifestyle. 

    Utah Broadband Launches SmartBiz: A Powerful, Affordable Internet Solution for Small Businesses

    Posted on by Abi Breaur

    Utah Broadband (UBB), Utah’s most trusted high-speed Internet service provider, announced today the launch of SmartBiz, a managed service that integrates the right mix of security, connectivity, and business productivity to help small businesses thrive. The combination of SmartBiz and UBB’s high-speed fiber network delivers a robust set of features and reliable high-performance connectivity that small business owners demand at a great value.

    “We understand the unique needs of small businesses in the greater Salt Lake area and are launching SmartBiz as a way to help them meet those demands,” said UBB CEO Ben Elkins. “SmartBiz provides small businesses the capabilities and security they need to be more productive than using traditional consumer connectivity without having to consider larger, more expensive enterprise-grade solutions. We think small businesses will appreciate what SmartBiz has to offer because it improves performance without burdening the owner with high IT costs or greater complexity.”

    SmartBiz is designed for businesses with fewer than 30 employees and 1-5 locations. It requires little to no budget for IT staffing as the system requires a simple network configuration that makes it easy for the business owner or staff to provision and deploy. The solution targets businesses in hospitality, light industrial, personal care, professional services, recreation, places of worship or retail. 

    “If a small business is spread pretty thin and has competing priorities every day, the last thing it wants to have to worry about is Internet connectivity,” Elkins explained. “Our new SmartBiz solution is purpose-built with the small business owner in mind. It’s really simple to monitor and manage, and out-of-the-box, it keeps businesses safe and secure and offers all the features typical businesses demand today.”

    SmartBiz also includes access to the CommandWorx Mobile App, making it easier than ever for small business owners to monitor and manage their network—anytime, anywhere. This user-friendly app offers quick access to all SmartBiz features through an intuitive interface designed with simplicity in mind. Whether you’re on-site or on the go, CommandWorx gives you complete control. You can even add a second administrator to provide additional support and oversight, making network management more collaborative and stress-free.

    For more information about SmartBiz, call our customer service team at 801-717-2000 or visit our website. 

    West Mountain Gets Fiber Internet Upgrade

    Posted on by Abi Breaur

    *Updates are as of Thursday, October 30th, 2025.

    Utah Broadband (UBB) is expanding high-speed fiber internet to the West Mountain and Lake Shore communities in Southern Utah County. Partnering with the South Utah Valley Electrical Service District (SESD), this project will deliver fast, reliable internet to over 1,000 homes and businesses in a six-phase rollout, starting with Phase 1.1.

    And now, Utah Broadband is officially ready to begin fiber internet installations for customers in Phase 2.1. This exciting milestone marks the beginning of bringing world-class connectivity to homes that have long lacked reliable options.

    Why This Matters

    For years, residents in these rural areas have struggled with limited internet options. With this new fiber network, they’ll get:

    • Faster speeds for streaming, gaming, and working from home
    • Stronger connections for students and businesses
    • Improved access to telehealth and online services

    How It’s Happening

    The project is funded through a state Broadband Access Grant (BAG), part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). SESD selected Utah Broadband to handle the rollout because of our expertise in fiber and fixed wireless internet across Utah.

    Parts of the project will use aerial fiber—hanging fiber lines from existing utility poles to speed up deployment. This approach reduces construction time while still delivering the same fast, reliable service.

    A Step Toward Better Connectivity

    SESD and Utah Broadband see this as a huge win for the community. Ben Elkins, UBB’s CEO, says this will enhance local residents’ education, business, and daily lives. SESD Board Chairman Raymond Loveless agrees that better connectivity means better services for everyone.

    What’s Next?

    The project will be completed in six phases, starting with Phase 1.1. Construction is underway, and the fiber network is expected to be fully available by December 2026. As Utah Broadband continues to expand into more rural areas, this project is another step toward bridging the digital divide in Utah.

    Stay tuned for updates as fiber comes to your area! For more information, call our customer service representatives at 801-717-2000, or enter your address below to see what service is available in your neighborhood.

    Utah Broadband Growth Plans Featured on Beyond the Cable Podcast

    Posted on by Abi Breaur
    Beyond the Cable Podcast Social Post

    Ben Elkins, CEO of Utah Broadband (UBB), Utah’s most trusted high-speed Internet service provider, appeared on the latest episode of Broadband Communities magazine’s Beyond the Cable podcast to discuss the strategies driving UBB’s growth and the exciting plans for the company’s future. 

    “Since taking the helm as the CEO of Arizona City-based AireBeam, CEO Ben Elkins has overseen a 375 percent growth in fiber subscribers for the ISP,” the podcast’s Host and Producer Brad Randall described the episode. “Now, Elkins is attempting to repeat success at another subsidiary of the Boston Omaha Corporation: Utah Broadband.”

    Elkins took over at AireBeam in 2022 and was named UBB’s CEO in May 2024. Wearing both hats, he reflects on some of AireBeam’s growth, how he achieved such stunning success in Arizona’s Pinal County, and how he will use those keen insights and lessons to advance UBB’s business in the greater Salt Lake region. 

    Elkins believes Utah Broadband has incredible potential, attributing this to the company’s strong work ethic and dedicated, hardworking management team. “UBB’s future is bright because of the passionate people behind it,” Elkins shared. “Their commitment to excellence is the foundation of our growth and success.”
    If you would like to listen to the Beyond the Cable podcast episode featuring CEO Ben Elkins, where he dives deeper into the strategies behind Utah Broadband’s growth and his vision for the future, please visit the Broadband Communities website.

    Utah Broadband and SESD Partner to Expand Fiber Internet Access

    Posted on by Abi Breaur

    Utah Broadband (UBB), Utah’s most trusted high-speed Internet service provider and a subsidiary of Boston Omaha Corporation (NYSE: BOC), and South Utah Valley Electrical Service District (SESD) have entered into a partnership to provide high-speed fiber Internet to southern Utah County’s West Mountain area. The project began in January 2025 and is expected to be completed by December 2026. The project is funded by the state’s Broadband Access Grant (BAG), awarded by the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity Utah Broadband Center (UBC). Funding for the grant comes from the U.S. Treasury’s Capital Projects Funds, which is part of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and was awarded to SESD.

    “We couldn’t be more excited to win the SESD grant,” said UBB CEO Ben Elkins. “This is a significant milestone for the West Mountain and Lake Shore communities, and Utah Broadband. Bringing fiber to those areas will enhance the quality of life, education, telehealth, and work opportunities. I’m incredibly proud of the entire UBB team, with special thanks to Mike Simmons, who spearheaded this endeavor.”

    Elkins expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Rebecca Dilg, director of the state’s Utah Broadband Center, for her unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in bridging the digital divide across the state. “Rebecca’s vision and commitment have been instrumental in creating opportunities for communities to thrive in the digital age,” said Elkins. He also shared Utah Broadband’s excitement about teaming up with South Utah Valley Electric Service District (SESD) to bring reliable fiber internet to the West Mountain and Lake Shore communities. “This partnership marks a significant step forward in ensuring that these communities have access to the high-speed connectivity they deserve, unlocking new opportunities for education, business, and everyday life,” Elkins added.

    Raymond Loveless, SESD board chairman, echoed the same enthusiasm, saying, “SESD is thrilled to collaborate with Utah Broadband to expand Internet options for the West Mountain and Lake Shore areas within our service district. Enhanced connectivity will not only improve access to essential services but also enable SESD to provide better electrical services for our customers across the district. This partnership allows both entities to combine resources, expertise, and insights to achieve common goals without adding costs for our electrical customers.”

    Both Elkins and Loveless highlighted the project’s transformative potential. This initiative promises to deliver high-speed fiber Internet to over 1,000 homes and businesses in the West Mountain area, significantly improving connectivity and supporting education, business growth, and community development.

    According to Rebecca Dilg, director of the UBC, part of the Center’s legislative duties is facilitating state broadband grants to incentivize broadband internet infrastructure projects in communities that otherwise would not receive them, particularly rural areas.

    “The internet is no longer a luxury as our society, health care, educational institutions, and economies rely on online access,” Dilg said. “Without access, the digital divide threatens to leave individuals at a disadvantage. Internet service providers such as UBB, local government, and community supporters can narrow the gap and improve commerce and online opportunities for all populations. This partnership between UBB and SESD is a fitting example of that at work.”

    The collaboration between Utah Broadband and SESD represents a vital step forward in closing the digital divide in Utah’s rural communities. With a shared vision of enhanced connectivity and community growth, this project will bring transformative benefits to the West Mountain area. As the partnership progresses, it stands as a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in creating opportunities and improving lives through reliable, high-speed fiber internet access.

    Fiber vs. Fixed Wireless: Which Internet Option is Best?

    Posted on by Abi Breaur

    As fixed wireless Internet grows in popularity, the debate continues: fixed wireless vs. fiber Internet. While fixed wireless has its uses, fiber offers clear advantages for high-speed, reliable residential connectivity.

    Superior Quality

    Fiber Internet delivers exceptional performance. Unlike fixed wireless, fiber-optic cables experience minimal signal loss and are immune to electromagnetic interference. This ensures a stable connection, ideal for remote work, secure communications, and seamless streaming. Additionally, fiber maintains consistent quality over distance, supporting multiple devices on a single router without degradation.

    Low latency is another critical advantage of fiber. Users experience smoother video streaming, uninterrupted gaming, and clear voice communications with faster signal transmission.

    Faster Speeds with Future Potential

    Fiber Internet boasts unparalleled speeds, often reaching 10 Gbps or more. Unlike fixed wireless, which can slow down during peak usage, fiber provides consistent speeds, including symmetrical upload and download rates. Its scalable infrastructure ensures that upgrading for even faster speeds in the future is straightforward.

    Unmatched Reliability

    Fiber Internet is far more dependable than fixed wireless. It avoids common issues like buffering and bandwidth throttling during busy hours. Additionally, most fiber infrastructure is buried underground, making it less vulnerable to weather-related disruptions, unlike exposed fixed wireless towers.

    Enhanced Security

    Fiber-optic cables offer superior security. Their physical and technological design makes them resistant to eavesdropping, ensuring safer data transmission—an essential feature for remote workers handling sensitive information.

    Sustainability and Flexibility

    Fiber is a sustainable and future-proof technology. Its scalable infrastructure provides higher capacity, predictable performance, and lower maintenance costs compared to fixed wireless. Designed for long-term use, fiber is easy to upgrade, making it a smart investment for homeowners.

    Conclusion

    As the residential user enters a new realm of bandwidth appetite with remote working requirements, home usage needs, and new applications for online entertainment, Internet connectivity is becoming more critical. While innovative solutions will enter the market, as has fixed wireless, fiber Internet is still the best option for high-speed, quality, and secure bandwidth. If you would like to learn more about fiber or fixed wireless Internet, call 801-717-2000 or visit us online at UtahBroadband.com.