Coronavirus and telecommunications may seem like an unlikely duo, but recent events have connected between the two subjects. As the pandemic grows, more and more people are likely to stay at home. In some countries, like in Italy, people have no choice but to do so. Due to this situation, many of us are depended on the internet even more than usual.

In order to keep business as usual, or at least try to do so, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai has announced the “Keep Americans Connected Initiative”. The goal of this initiative is to make sure Americans do not lose their broadband or telephone connectivity. So far over 550 companies and associations have signed the Chairman’s pledge to Keep Americans Connected.

The companies made several promises. Firstly, not to terminate residential or small business broadband for nonpayment, at least for the next 60 days. Secondly, to waive late fees. Lastly, the companies promised to open WiFi hotspots to anyone who needs them.

While there’s no doubt this is a positive move, we also need to ask ourselves- can our current networks handle this number of users? While the telecommunications providers are optimistic about their ability to answer the demand, many users complain about a slow and unresponsive internet service.