Cox Communications Doubling Internet Speeds and Adding In-Home WiFi for Families Who Enroll in Connect2Compete Program

Cox Communications is furthering its efforts to connect youth with technology by doubling the download speed of the company’s discounted Internet service available to low-income families with school-aged children through the Connect2Compete program. Starting early next month, Cox will also offer in-home WiFi as part of the monthly service package of $9.95. Cox continues to narrow the digital divide by actively promoting the advantages of the discounted service available through the Connect2Compete program throughout its 18-state footprint.

“With faster download speeds, families can readily access richer educational resources online in half the time,” said Sam Attisha, Vice President of Public Affairs, Cox Communications. “A fast, reliable Internet connection gives students the ability to access their assignments, conduct thorough research and better collaborate on projects after the school day is over. Parents can also use the connection to better communicate with teachers and stay in the know with their child’s education. It’s a win-win for the whole family.”

With many schools providing devices to their students as part of their educational experience, the increased speeds and WiFi service from Cox will make it easier for all members of a household to access the Internet at the same time.

The faster Connect2Compete speeds will allow students to access homework assignments or easily watch educational videos. Parents also can stay involved in their student’s education by easily accessing report cards and interacting with teachers online. For example, with the new speeds customers will be able to:*

• Download a document in only a second
• Download a 35 MB video in less than 30 seconds
• Download a 800 MB movie in 11 minutes

The increased speeds will go into effect on Dec. 3, 2015, benefiting nearly 130,000 people already connected to the program. Equipment for in-home WiFi will be included for all families who enroll in the program after Dec. 3, 2015.

“Affordable, home access to the Internet, especially for students and their families, is a vital component of ending the digital divide,” said Zach Leverenz, CEO of EveryoneOn, the parent organization of Connect2Compete. “Digital equity for students inside and outside of school also requires equity in the type and quality of service. Cox Communications’ commitment to not only providing affordable service, but also expanded speeds and WiFi, is an important part of home access for the underserved populations.”

Cox also announced Connect2Compete customers will have free access to Cox WiFi, the company’s metro WiFi hotspot network service available in markets around the country, including Phoenix, Arizona; San Diego, California; Las Vegas, Nevada; Providence Rhode Island; and more. While on the go or traveling, customers also have access to Cable WiFi, which is the nation’s largest WiFi network of more than 400,000 hotspots, made possible by a collaboration of cable companies across the country. Launched in 2013, Cable WiFi gives cable customers access to hotspots that are strategically located in high-traffic areas such as restaurants, malls, beaches, sports arenas, and parks in cities that include Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, New York City, Washington D.C., Boston and Philadelphia.

The Connect2Compete program is designed for K-12 students. Families with at least one child receiving free lunch are eligible to receive Internet services, from Cox. There also are no activation fees or equipment rental fees associated with the high-speed Internet program. Cox piloted the program with Connect2Compete in San Diego in 2012 and launched the program in all markets in 2013. More than 25,000 families, representing 100,000 consumers are connected to the Internet through Cox’s Connect2Compete program.

Eligible families may apply online at www.connect2compete.org/Cox or by calling 855-222-3252.

About Cox Communications

Cox Communications is a broadband communications and entertainment company, providing advanced digital video, Internet, telephone and home security and automation services over its own nationwide IP network. The third-largest U.S. cable company, Cox serves approximately 6 million residences and businesses. Cox Business is a facilities-based provider of voice, video and data solutions for commercial customers, and Cox Media is a full-service provider of national and local cable spot and digital media advertising. Cox is known for its pioneering efforts in cable telephone and commercial services, industry-leading customer care and its outstanding workplaces. For eight years, Cox has been recognized as the top operator for women by Women in Cable Telecommunications; Cox has ranked among DiversityInc’s Top 50 Companies for Diversity 10 times, including the last nine years. More information about Cox Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at www.cox.com and www.coxmedia.com.

*Source: www.download-time.com