Test Your Connection
Speed Now
Home > High Speed Internet > Special Needs

Broadband for Special Needs

High speed Internet should be easily accessible to everyone - even those with special needs. 

With increased Internet and broadband usage in the last few years, advancements have been made in almost every facet of the industry.  A major goal for Internet Service Providers (and by FCC mandate) is to make broadband Internet accessible to everyone. 

Because of this, we have screen readers, webcams and W3C standards for making Web sites easy to navigate and read for people of all levels of ability.

This section will explore:

Programs like California's DDTP (Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program) offer services like Internet relay and video relay to the public, which require an Internet connection to function properly. 

Internet Relay

Internet relay is Web based and requires a computer and an Internet connection to allow the deaf, hard of hearing or speech disabled customer to connect to an Internet relay operator who dials the phone number of the other party and types the message that appears in real-time.

Video Relay

Video relay Is Web based as well, but uses a webcam or videophone and high speed Internet access.  A relay operator/interpreter transmits the message via sign language or speaking if the person can read lips.

 Related Articles: