In addition, wireless and satellite Internet connections rose by 50 percent to 500,000 users.
The figures do not take into account whether the connections are in addition to a user’s existing Internet connection, but broadband use in America, which FCC Chairman Kevin Martin said is the agency’s “biggest priority,” is still behind that of 15 other countries.
Emerging Internet technologies like broadband over power lines, which is drawing interest from an ever-expanding Google, and Fiber to the Home, rose 16 percent last year. Supporters say these delivery systems, which showed the smallest growth, are really the most effective ways to get online.
Since taking over FCC leadership from Michael Powell in March, Martin has continued Powell’s initiative to raise America’s broadband visibility. The European Union, which many believe is several years ahead of the United States in mobile technology, also boasts strong working relationships between telecoms providing broadband access and the leadership of member countries.
To that end, the FCC last year loosened restrictions on network-sharing restrictions for the nation’s Baby Bells, spurring competition for companies to develop stronger delivery systems, such as FFTH, as well as fortifying “traditional” DSL and cable networks.