GCI’s network holds strong as usage significantly increases
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – More Alaskans than ever before are taking advantage of GCI’s high-speed internet service. Despite substantial increases in usage and the number of devices connected at once, GCI’s network continues to deliver the crucial, reliable connectivity that Alaskans depend on.
“As a provider of critical infrastructure, we are working hard to keep our customers connected through this stressful time,” said Vice President of GCI Engineering Victor Esposito. “Over the past two weeks, we have seen increased use of our network due to additional demands from businesses and public agencies, people who are working from home, and students and families at home due to school and other closures. Even with this substantial increased demand, GCI’s network is holding strong.”
GCI crews continue to closely monitor and maintain its networks 24 hours a day, seven days a week to accommodate the growth and spikes in usage while many Alaskans work or attend classes from home. GCI also added capacity on its redundant fiber-optic network connecting Alaska to the Lower 48 to ensure customers have ample bandwidth. For more information on the status of GCI’s network, watch the recent video update at: https://youtu.be/YGwVXoqeRUU.
Maintaining network operations and access is a priority for service providers across the nation. This week GCI joined a project spearheaded by industry organization NCTA to launch an online tracker for metrics, trends and observations related to internet usage during COVID-19. In line with national trends, internet usage in Alaska since March 1, 2020 has grown more than 20 percent. To see the NCTA’s usage tracker, visit: https://www.ncta.com/COVIDdashboard.
“As GCI’s hometown provider of broadband service, we’ve always been committed to making sure that our network is prepared to keep Alaskans connected,” said Vice President of GCI Product Management Duncan Whitney. “The national data clearly demonstrates that Alaskans have access to some of the best broadband service in the US even during trying times like this. I’m very proud of the work GCI teams have put in over the years to prepare for situations like this.”
GCI also has the following internet offers available to Alaskans through May 31, 2020:
For Households with that currently have GCI internet service
- Alaskan households that currently have GCI Internet plans can receive a free upgrade to the next level plan for no additional cost through May 31, 2020.
For Households Without GCI Internet Service
- GCI is offering entry-level cable modem internet plans for free, where available, until May 31, 2020.
For K-12 Students and Educators
- GCI is offering its entry-level plan with Wi-Fi equipment to K-12 teachers and all students, including college students, for free until May 31, 2020 and is waiving credit checks and deposits for service and equipment.
GCI is committed to keeping employees, customers and families safe and connected during the COVID-19 situation. Learn more about GCI’s response at https://www.gci.com/covid-19.
About GCI
GCI provides data, mobile, video, voice and managed services to consumer and business customers throughout Alaska and nationwide. Headquartered in Alaska, GCI has delivered services for nearly 40 years to some of the most remote communities and in some of the most challenging conditions in North America. Learn more about GCI at www.gci.com. GCI is a wholly owned subsidiary of GCI Liberty, Inc. (Nasdaq: GLIBA, GLIBP). Learn more about GCI Liberty at www.gciliberty.com.