Wisper Internet Expands High-Speed Connectivity Across Southern Illinois

Delivering Reliable Fixed Wireless Internet to Over 40 Counties in Illinois What began as a garage-based dream in 2003 is now a transformative force for digital access across the Midwest. Wisper Internet, founded by CEO Nathan Stooke in O’Fallon, Illinois, has grown into one of the region’s most  trusted internet providers—serving over 40 counties in Southern Illinois with fast, fixed wireless internet. Locally Grown, Community-Focused A proud graduate of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Nathan Stooke built Wisper with a mission to bridge the digital divide—starting in his hometown and growing outward. Now headquartered in Mascoutah, IL, Wisper employs over 226 team members, including 86 in Illinois alone (82 full-time and 4 part-time), and provides service to more than 7,400 Illinois subscribers, with 930+ in St. Clair County. This commitment to local hiring and service sets Wisper apart as a provider that understands and supports the communities it serves. Backed by Federal Support to Expand Access In 2018, Wisper was awarded $220.3 million through the FCC’s Connect America Fund Phase II (CAF II)—the second-highest award nationwide. This funding fuels Wisper’s mission to bring high-speed internet to underserved rural areas, helping families, schools, and businesses stay connected in places that have long lacked reliable broadband. Why Fixed Wireless Internet Works for Southern Illinois Fixed wireless internet delivers high-speed internet using radio signals—no need for buried cables or phone lines. It’s especially effective in rural and semi-rural regions like Southern Illinois, where fiber installation is costly and time-consuming. Key Benefits of Wisper Fixed Wireless: ✅ Speeds up to 400 Mbps ✅ Quick, professional installation ✅ Ideal for homes, farms, and small businesses ✅ Low latency for streaming, Zoom, and gaming ✅ No data caps, no contracts Whether you’re working remotely, attending virtual classes, or streaming your favorite shows, Wisper’s network is built to keep up. Looking Ahead: Fiber-to-the-Home and Infrastructure Upgrades Wisper isn’t slowing down. In addition to expanding fixed wireless coverage, Wisper is investing in fiber-to-the-home technology to meet growing demand in Southern Illinois. As infrastructure improves, so does your experience—with faster speeds, greater reliability, and cutting-edge performance. 🌐 Ready to Experience Better Internet in Southern Illinois? Wisper Internet offers: ✔️ Fast home internet✔️ Business connectivity✔️ Home phone services✔️ Friendly, local support 📞 Call us: 1-800-765-7772🌐 Visit: www.wisperisp.com/available-packages Join thousands of satisfied customers who trust Wisper Internet to keep them connected—no matter where they live…. Read More

May 4th Is More Than Star Wars Day – It’s a Day to Honor the Real Heroes Among Us

A Day to Honor the Real Heroes Among Us: Firefighters While May the 4th is often celebrated by Star Wars fans as “Star Wars Day,” the date also holds a much deeper significance in the real world. International Firefighters’ Day, observed annually on May 4, honors the brave men and women who serve communities across the globe — often with little recognition and immense personal sacrifice. Firefighters by the Numbers: 2025 Update According to the FEMA National Fire Department Registry, there are currently around 1.2 million fire service personnel across the United States. These numbers include: 35% career firefighters 52% volunteer firefighters 13% paid-per-call personnel The majority of departments in small towns and rural communities are still staffed by volunteers, individuals who juggle full-time jobs, families, and responsibilities — and still show up when the alarm sounds. The Role Firefighters Play in Our Communities Firefighters do more than respond to emergencies. They train rigorously throughout the year, often putting in hundreds of hours to remain certified and prepared for a wide range of situations — from structure fires to medical emergencies, severe weather rescues, and more. Beyond emergencies, they are cornerstones of their communities. Many host seasonal events like Easter egg hunts, open houses, fire safety demonstrations, parades, and pancake breakfasts. Their role is just as much about prevention, education, and connection as it is about crisis response. Wisper Internet’s Connection to First Responders At Wisper Internet, we serve hundreds of communities across the Midwest and partner with dozens of fire departments. Whether we’re providing internet access to firehouses or mounting equipment on department towers to expand local coverage, we understand how critical fast, reliable internet is for first responders — and for the people they serve. To show appreciation, Wisper offers a $5/month Thank You Discount to active firefighters and first responders. It’s one small way we can give back to those who give so much. Learn how to claim your discount › Supporting the 1% In many small towns, it’s often 1% of the population protecting the other 99%. These individuals serve with humility, compassion, and grit — sometimes for decades. While the fire departments themselves have been around for generations and will continue to serve long after today’s firefighters retire, the mission remains constant: be there when the community needs you. On May 4, and every day, take a moment to appreciate the firefighters and first responders in your community. They’re not asking for recognition — but they absolutely deserve it. From all of us at Wisper Internet:Thank you for your service. We’re proud to support the work you do…. Read More

Wisper Salutes the Men and Women in Law Enforcement

Honoring Law Enforcement During National Police Week Each year, National Police Week (May 11–17) serves as a time to honor the dedication, bravery, and sacrifice of the men and women in law enforcement. Across the United States, millions of people take this week to recognize not only those who currently serve but also the officers who have given their lives in the line of duty. From the flashing lights we see in our rearview mirrors to the quiet moments of protection and service that go unseen, law enforcement officers play a critical role in keeping communities safe. Who Serves and Protects? Law enforcement is made up of many different roles, each essential to the safety and order of our cities, towns, and counties. These include: Local and municipal police officers County sheriff’s deputies State troopers and highway patrol Federal agents and specialized law enforcement agencies Correctional officers and jail staff Court bailiffs and courthouse security 911 dispatchers and communications officers Each of these individuals contributes to public safety, often under challenging, high-pressure conditions. Whether it’s working the front lines, maintaining control inside detention facilities, or coordinating emergency responses over the radio, these roles require a high level of training, resilience, and commitment. The Risks They Face Every day, officers leave their homes and families knowing they may face dangerous or unpredictable situations. Many wear bulletproof vests not by choice, but because it’s a necessary part of their uniform — a stark reminder of the risks involved in their work. Tragically, some do not return home. National Police Week includes solemn memorials, candlelight vigils, and ceremonies across the country to honor officers who have died in the line of duty. These events serve as powerful reminders of the very real cost of public service. The Role of Dispatchers Often called the “first first responders,” 911 dispatchers are the vital link between the public and emergency services. They answer calls in moments of crisis, gather critical information, and guide callers through what to do before help arrives. Dispatchers also coordinate with officers and emergency personnel on the ground, helping to ensure the safety of everyone involved — including the responders themselves. Their calm presence and rapid decision-making can be the difference between chaos and control. Correctional Officers and Bailiffs Once individuals are arrested, correctional officers and court bailiffs take on the responsibility of ensuring justice is carried out safely. These professionals oversee detention centers, transport inmates, and maintain courtroom security — all while navigating an environment that can be just as dangerous as the streets. Their role is often overlooked, but it’s essential to the justice system. Supporting Those Who Serve At Wisper Internet, we believe it’s important to support those who dedicate their lives to protecting others. We proudly offer a $5/month Thank You Discount to active law enforcement officers and dispatchers as a small token of appreciation for their service. We also recognize the families behind the badge. Every shift brings uncertainty, and the strength and patience of loved ones at home are an important part of the broader sacrifice law enforcement requires. More Than One Week of Thanks One week a year is not nearly enough to acknowledge the challenges, risks, and responsibilities that law enforcement professionals carry. Their work continues 24/7, through holidays, weekends, storms, and sleepless nights — all in service to their communities. Wisper Internet thanks every law enforcement officer, dispatcher, and support staff member for their service. We also thank the families who share these heroes with the rest of us. Whether you wear a badge or answer the radio, your commitment does not go unnoticed. We salute those holding the thin blue, silver, and yellow lines — and we are proud to stand with you…. Read More

Wisper Salutes the Military, Past and Present

Honoring Military Service During Military Appreciation Month Each May, Americans observe Military Appreciation Month — a time to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and service of active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families. While Memorial Day and Veterans Day are widely recognized, this month-long tribute honors the full range of military contributions across all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Recognizing Our Neighbors at Scott Air Force Base Located near Wisper Internet’s headquarters in Mascoutah, Illinois, Scott Air Force Base plays a major role in U.S. defense operations. The base hosts over 35 mission partners, including: U.S. Transportation Command Air Mobility Command Tanker Airlift Control Center Surface Deployment and Distribution Command Scott AFB employs a total workforce of around 13,000, which includes: 5,500 active-duty service members 2,400 National Guard and Reserve 5,100 civilian personnel As the largest employer in Southwest Illinois, Scott AFB contributes over $3 billion annually to the local economy. Wisper is proud to serve communities alongside these service members and is deeply thankful for their continued commitment. Appreciating Veterans Beyond the Uniform Wisper Internet is honored to employ several military veterans. These individuals bring discipline, leadership, and technical expertise to our team. Their contributions—both in and out of uniform—help us build stronger communities. Additionally, we recognize the sacrifice of military families. Their unwavering support plays a vital role in the strength and readiness of our Armed Forces. A Thank You That Goes Further Wisper believes military appreciation should extend beyond words. That’s why we offer a $5/month Thank You Discount to both active-duty service members and veterans. It’s a small way we can give back to those who’ve given so much. We’re also proud to serve small towns across the Midwest — the kinds of places where VFWs still thrive, and community ties run deep. Thank You for Your Service — Past, Present, and Future Military Appreciation Month reminds us that service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. Veterans and active-duty members continue to lead, serve, and give back — often without recognition. Wisper Internet thanks all members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families. Your dedication, sacrifice, and strength continue to inspire us…. Read More

Wisper Salutes the Men and Women of EMS

National EMS Week: Honoring the Lifesavers Behind the Sirens When emergencies happen, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are often the first on scene — providing urgent care in homes, on highways, and everywhere in between. From rural roads to urban neighborhoods, EMTs and paramedics respond at a moment’s notice when lives are on the line. This year, National EMS Week takes place from May 18–24, 2025. It’s a time to recognize the dedication, skill, and compassion these professionals bring to every shift — and every call. What It Means to Work in EMS Working in EMS is physically demanding and emotionally intense. Many EMTs and medics work 24-hour shifts, sometimes responding to more than 20 calls a day in high-volume areas. Nationwide, EMS agencies respond to an estimated 28.5 million 911 dispatches each year. That’s more than 2,300 calls per ambulance annually — an average of 6.6 calls per day. But the job doesn’t stop with patient care. Between calls, EMS teams complete reports, clean equipment, restock supplies, and train for the next emergency. Every shift is different. Every one demands focus, empathy, and resilience. Becoming an EMT or Paramedic To enter the field, EMS professionals must complete months or years of education. They pass state and national exams to become certified. And to stay licensed, they’re required to complete continuing education every few years. New equipment, procedures, and medications are introduced regularly. EMS professionals are constantly learning and adapting to better serve their patients. In 2024, the median pay for EMS workers was: $41,340/year for EMTs $58,410/year for paramedics(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) These numbers highlight the commitment of EMS workers — most of whom are not in it for the paycheck. They serve because they care. The Role of Technology in Emergency Response Modern ambulances are equipped with life-saving tools — and many now include high-speed internet. This connectivity allows crews to: Transmit electrocardiograms (EKGs) directly to hospital teams Access real-time dispatch updates through Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) Upload reports instantly to hospital systems or EMS bases This integration of technology helps shorten response times, improves patient care, and saves lives. A Thank You From Wisper EMS providers often work behind the scenes, but their impact is seen and felt by every community they serve. At Wisper Internet, we serve many of the rural and suburban communities where EMS workers live and work. We understand how vital they are — not just during emergencies, but as trusted, everyday members of their towns. As a small gesture of our appreciation, Wisper offers a $5/month Thank You Discount to all first responders, including EMTs and paramedics.   Every Shift is a Story — and a Sacrifice EMS work is filled with serious moments — but also humor, resilience, and humanity. Whether calming a scared teen after a fender bender or supporting a family through tragedy, EMS professionals show up with empathy and skill every single time. Wisper Internet thanks everyone riding the rigs — those just starting their careers and the veterans guiding them. You give up meals, sleep, and holidays to serve others. Your work saves lives. Your service strengthens communities. And your dedication inspires us all…. Read More

Wisper Internet ‘Maps’ Success in Rural Communities

Yes, “X” Does Mark the Spot – Especially for Rural Internet Access We’ve all seen the classic treasure-hunting movie: a dusty attic reveals a mysterious map, an “X” marks the treasure, and a wild adventure begins. For many of us, those stories shaped our childhoods. Think pirate ships, hidden vaults, and yes — Indiana Jones dodging booby traps in search of ancient artifacts. But while most treasure hunts are fiction, sometimes “X” really does mark something valuable — especially when it comes to internet access. Finding the Real Treasure in Small Towns In today’s digital world, high-speed internet isn’t a luxury. It’s essential. For work, school, healthcare, farming, and staying connected with family, reliable internet can transform a household — and an entire community. At Wisper Internet, we proudly serve hundreds of small towns and rural areas across the Midwest. And believe it or not, we use maps every day to guide our work. But instead of buried treasure, our maps show towers, service zones, and coverage expansions — real infrastructure built to bring people online. That’s why when Wisper shows a town map with a dot or an “X,” it’s more than a symbol. It means: We’re already there. We’ve invested in that community. We’re connecting homes, farms, schools, and businesses. Real Service vs. Empty Promises Large, national internet providers often make big promises — low prices, high speeds, and full coverage. But for many small towns, those promises never materialize. Why? Because laying fiber optic or cable underground is expensive — $25,000 to $100,000 per mile, in fact. And when companies realize they won’t see big profits in rural areas, they abandon the project altogether. So those glowing maps and big plans? They often come with no actual dots, no infrastructure, and no service. Small towns are left waiting — and disconnected. Wisper Builds Differently Wisper Internet does things differently. Instead of digging up roads, we use existing towers, build new wireless infrastructure, and even place equipment on grain elevators, water towers, and silos. It’s faster, more cost-effective, and specifically designed for rural and suburban areas. This method allows us to: Expand service efficiently Reach homes through the air, not the ground Keep costs down and reliability high We’ve completed hundreds of new tower projects over the last few years and continue to add more “X” marks to our maps every month. Every dot represents a promise kept and a community connected. Not Just a Signal — A Commitment At Wisper, we’re proud of our homegrown roots. We live in small towns, just like the customers we serve. That’s why we’re committed to providing: Reliable service backed by real infrastructure Responsive support from people who care Affordable internet tailored to rural life No bullwhips or leather jackets required — just real connections, built with care. Ready to See If You’re on the Map? If you’re wondering whether Wisper Internet is already in your area — or on the way — take a look at our service maps. In this case, “X” really does mark the spot. And if we’re not there yet? We’re probably getting close. Wisper Internet: Connecting Small Towns, One Tower at a Time. We care about the dots on our map — because they’re the towns we live in, and the people we’re proud to serve…. Read More

Wisper Holds On to Small Town Focus

Small Town, One Stoplight — And the Growing Need for Internet Connection How many stoplights are in your town? If you live in a big city, that might seem like a strange question. But in small towns across America, it’s totally normal — just like asking, “Where’d you go to high school?” In many villages and rural communities, the answer is just one. One stoplight on Main Street. Maybe added in the ’90s when train traffic or a growing school required it. And yes, it still turns red every time you’re running late. But life in a small town has never really been about stoplights. It’s been about knowing your neighbors, waving at passing cars, and having long conversations in diners, barber shops, church pews, and school pickup lines. The Internet Is the New Town Square Back in the day, news traveled through word of mouth or in the local paper. Today, the world runs on digital connection — and that’s true whether you’re in downtown Chicago or a town with just one intersection. Work happens from the kitchen table. School assignments are completed online. Grocery shopping, banking, and entertainment are just a click away. The internet isn’t optional anymore — it’s essential. But for Rural Communities, It’s Not That Simple In cities, access to high-speed internet is taken for granted. But in rural towns, access is limited, unreliable, or simply unavailable. That digital divide creates real obstacles for families, businesses, and schools trying to keep up. That’s where Wisper Internet comes in. Wisper: Built for Small Towns, Because That’s Where We Live Too Founded in 2003, Wisper Internet was born from a single, local need. When a neighbor two miles down the road couldn’t get internet, Wisper’s founder, Nathan Stooke, decided to do something about it. Fast-forward two decades and Wisper now serves over 20,000 customers across six states. But the mission is the same:Bring reliable internet to rural communities who have been overlooked and underserved. We don’t wait for big telecom to catch up.We build our own towers.We connect unincorporated communities, villages, and townships.And we focus on service areas others ignore. Life in a Small Town Comes With Trade-Offs — Internet Shouldn’t Be One of Them There’s a blessing and a curse to small-town life: everyone knows you…and everyone knows your business. But it’s also a life full of pride, community, and tradition. Wisper understands those values — because we share them. Whether you’re running a farm, running a household, or helping your kids run through online homework, you need internet that works every time — not just most of the time. Imagine if your water or electricity only worked “most of the time.” It wouldn’t fly. And the same goes for internet access. From One Stoplight to Six States and Growing Wisper will never forget where it came from. We don’t build for cities — we build for counties, crossroads, and communities where internet access is vital and personal. We’re small-town at heart — just like you…. Read More

Wisper Connects Farming Communities with Small Town Service

How Grain Elevators Help Power Rural Internet with Wisper In small towns across America, the grain elevator often rises above everything else — literally and symbolically. You pass it every day without much thought. It’s just part of the backdrop, standing tall through the scorching summers and snowy winters. But for farmers, it’s more than a building. It’s the final stop in a season of hard work — the place where months of early mornings and late nights finally pay off. It’s where futures are stored, families are fed, and next year’s crops are funded. Grain Elevators: The Original Rural Network Grain elevators have long been a hub of local life. Like the diner counter or church pew, they’re places where stories are shared, news is spread, and neighbors connect. That kind of connection is the heart of small-town life. But today, we rely on more than face-to-face conversation — we need internet access to stay connected to the outside world. And surprisingly, many grain elevators help make that happen. From Farming Hub to Broadband Backbone Grain elevators are often the tallest structure in town — and that makes them the perfect platform for Wisper Internet’s fixed wireless broadband technology. By attaching transmitters to these high points, Wisper brings fast, reliable internet to rural areas that big providers overlook. Since 2003, Wisper Internet has grown from a small-town startup to a regional provider serving customers across Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, and Indiana. Today, we have wireless equipment installed on: 94 grain elevators 147 water towers Connecting hundreds of communities across the Midwest These structures allow us to deliver broadband without the time and cost of burying miles of cable — and without leaving small towns behind. Built for Small Towns, Because That’s Where We Live Too Communities like Cisne, IL and Jasper, MO might seem like dots on a map to most people. But to the families who live there, they’re home. They deserve the same access to internet as anyone else — and Wisper makes it happen. Just like local farmers use grain elevators to deliver their product to market, Wisper uses them to deliver reliable internet. And just like a good harvest, that success comes from strong local partnerships and deep community roots. In the words of Wisper founder and CEO Nathan Stooke: “Wisper is an overnight success story 22 years in the making.” We’ve grown by showing up for small towns — just like the people who live there. Connecting Communities, One Elevator at a Time Grain elevators may seem old-school, but they’re helping power the digital future in rural America. At Wisper, we’ll keep climbing high — both figuratively and literally — to make sure you stay connected to what matters. Because we care about small towns. That’s where we live too…. Read More

Storms Affect Wisper Internet System

How Severe Storms Can Impact Your Internet Service — And How Wisper Internet Responds Severe storms are a regular part of life in the Midwest. While most storms pass without disrupting your internet, powerful weather events like strong winds, lightning, and tornadoes can sometimes affect Wisper Internet service. How Severe Weather Affects Your Internet Connection Our Wisper Internet network is built for reliability, but extreme weather can still cause interruptions. High winds and lightning may damage equipment on towers, disrupt power supply, or weaken wireless signals—leading to temporary service outages. Wisper’s Rapid Response to Storm-Related Internet Outages When severe storms strike, Wisper’s skilled tower technicians and engineers promptly assess the damage. Safety is our top priority, so repairs begin only when conditions allow. Once it’s safe, our teams work efficiently to restore your internet service as quickly as possible without compromising quality. Real-Time Updates During Internet Outages Wisper customers receive automatic real-time text alerts during widespread service disruptions. These alerts provide important updates about the outage, estimated repair times, and confirmation once your internet is back online. Why Staying Connected Matters to Wisper Internet Customers We understand how critical internet connectivity is for work, school, and staying in touch with loved ones. That’s why Wisper Internet is committed to minimizing downtime and keeping you informed throughout any storm-related outage…. Read More

Wisper Keeps Farmers Connected, Supports Rural Communities

How Rural Internet Helps Farmers and Small Businesses Thrive in 2025 Over the past few years, technology has only grown more essential to how we live, work, and learn—especially in rural America. A key lesson from the COVID-19 pandemic that still holds true today is the importance of reliable, high-speed internet access. Without it, rural residents are often left behind in an increasingly digital economy. This divide is especially felt by America’s farmers and small business owners. Farming in the Digital Age Today’s farms run more like high-tech businesses than old-fashioned homesteads. From GPS-guided equipment to cloud-based crop tracking and real-time weather monitoring, reliable internet has become a powerful tool in modern agriculture. Stevie Scates, owner of Scates Valley Irrigation in Carmi, IL, has seen this transformation firsthand. “I use Wisper Internet for my irrigation business, but my cousins up the road in New Haven use it to monitor our grain bin remotely,” Stevie shared. “I’ve tried satellite, dish, and hot spots—none were as fast or reliable as Wisper. Now I can run Zoom meetings, send aerial maps, order parts online, and communicate with my accountant without any issues.” Bringing Opportunity to Rural Entrepreneurs It’s not just farmers who benefit from strong rural internet—local entrepreneurs are seeing huge gains as well. Terry Wassam, owner of Wassam Farm and Fence in Sedalia, MO, remembers when he started his business seven years ago. “We only had a landline phone. Running a credit card meant tying up the phone line for minutes at a time. It was frustrating.” Everything changed when he connected with Easy Net Wireless, now part of Wisper Internet. “Now, most of our business runs on the internet. From inventory to billing, we depend on a fast, reliable connection.” Reliable internet has become a requirement, not a luxury, for small businesses. When payment systems lag or go offline, it’s not just inconvenient—it costs money. Every sale matters, and small businesses can’t afford to lose revenue due to poor connectivity. Peace of Mind on the Farm Technology is also helping farmers protect their property and simplify their lives. Michael Rice, a farmer in Green Ridge, MO, uses Wisper Internet for more than just work. “It runs my Ring security system,” he said. “If someone pulls up or walks through a door while I’m out in the field, I get a notification on my phone.” He also uses the internet for parts research, online purchases, and equipment searches. “I’ve found some great deals on tractors and trailers thanks to Wisper’s fast speeds.” Closing the Digital Divide with Wisper Internet At Wisper Internet, we know that strong communities start with strong connections. Whether you’re managing a farm, launching a rural business, or simply trying to stay in touch, high-speed internet helps make it possible. “Farmers are America’s backbone,” said Wisper Founder and CEO, Nathan Stooke. “We’re proud to support the farmers and businesses that keep our rural communities thriving.” With more than 20,000 subscribers across Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, Wisper continues to expand its mission: deliver fast, reliable internet to rural and underserved areas—and help close the digital divide once and for all. Need Help Getting Connected? Find out if Wisper Internet is available in your area by visiting wisperisp.com or calling our friendly support team today…. Read More

Growing Your Digital Literacy Skills in an Online World

Why Digital Literacy Still Matters in 2025 — And How to Improve Your Skills If you’re between the ages of 25 and 45, chances are you’ve used computers and smartphones for most of your professional life. You know how to reset a password, search on Google, and open a Zoom meeting without thinking twice. But how many times has someone asked you, “How do I get to my email?” or “Can you help me find this online?” For many people—especially older adults or those just entering the workforce—digital skills are not second nature. And in 2025, lacking digital literacy can mean being locked out of job opportunities, education, healthcare, and even social connection. 💻 What Is Digital Literacy? The American Library Association defines digital literacy as: “The ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information, requiring both cognitive and technical skills.” In simpler terms, digital literacy means being able to understand and use technology confidently and safely. It includes everything from navigating the web to protecting your privacy, applying for jobs online, or joining a video call with your doctor. We often take these abilities for granted—especially if we’ve grown up using technology—but for others, not knowing how to use a laptop, tablet, or even a smartphone can be a huge barrier in today’s world. 📶 Why Digital Literacy Still Matters in 2025 1. Job Hunting and Career Growth Are Largely Digital According to the World Economic Forum, digital skills are now essential for over 90% of jobs in the U.S. Whether you’re applying on platforms like Indeed or building your resume on LinkedIn, knowing how to navigate these systems is key. Many interviews now take place on Zoom or Google Meet—even for hourly positions. 2. Small Businesses Rely on the Internet to Compete Since 2020, over 70% of small businesses have increased their digital presence to survive. Without a basic website or the ability to use platforms like Facebook Business or Shopify, many rural or family-owned stores struggle to stay afloat. 3. Healthcare, Banking, and Government Services Are Online Telehealth visits, online banking, and digital tax filing are now the norm. If someone doesn’t know how to schedule a virtual appointment or access secure portals, they risk missing out on vital care and services. 4. Social Connection and Mental Health Staying connected with family and friends—especially across distances—depends on being comfortable with tools like email, messaging apps, video calls, and social media. Digital confidence can reduce feelings of isolation, especially for seniors. 5. Remote Work and Learning Aren’t Going Away As of 2025, nearly 30% of U.S. employees work remotely in some capacity. Whether you’re learning new skills, applying for jobs, or just working from home, digital literacy helps you stay competitive and connected. Where to Learn Digital Skills in 2025 The good news? You can improve your digital literacy at any age. There are many free or affordable resources available both online and locally. Online Learning Platforms Microsoft Learn – Free courses on Microsoft Office, cybersecurity, IT support, and more Google Digital Garage – Free training in digital marketing, career skills, and tech tools Coursera – College-level courses, including computer basics and business tech (some free) LinkedIn Learning – Personalized learning paths for career growth Community Resources Local libraries and community colleges often offer beginner courses in computer skills, email use, social media, and even coding. Many schools, senior centers, and nonprofit groups also provide digital literacy workshops throughout the year. Pro Tip: If you’re a Wisper customer, check out our Wisper Home App, which includes helpful tools and resources to improve your online experience, including antivirus protection, parental controls, and Wi-Fi management features. Final Thoughts: It’s Never Too Late to Learn Digital literacy isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a skillset that unlocks opportunity, independence, and connection in today’s world. Whether you’re helping a family member navigate their first smartphone or building your own skill set for a career change, the ability to use technology confidently is one of the most important tools you can have in 2025. At Wisper Internet, we’re committed to helping bridge the digital divide in our rural communities. Reliable internet is just the beginning—we want to help our customers thrive online. Ready to Get Started? Explore digital learning resources, ask your local library about available workshops, or check out Wisper’s blog and social channels for tips and tutorials. Let’s keep growing together—one skill at a time…. Read More

What Is Fixed Wireless – And Is It For Me?

What Is Fixed Wireless Internet? A Reliable Alternative for Rural Communities More families are relying on the internet than ever before. From remote work and homework to streaming and staying connected, a strong internet connection is essential. While many people are familiar with traditional options like DSL, cable, satellite, or fiber-optic, there’s another powerful solution worth considering: fixed wireless internet. So, what exactly is fixed wireless internet—and is it right for you? Let’s explore how it works, how it compares to other options, and whether it’s available in your area. What Is Fixed Wireless Internet? Fixed wireless internet is a type of broadband connection that uses radio signals instead of underground cables. A small antenna, mounted on your home, communicates with a nearby tower to deliver internet service directly to your router. This method eliminates the need for expensive trenching or wiring. Because it doesn’t rely on buried infrastructure, fixed wireless is often available in places where other internet services fall short—especially in rural areas. It’s also a faster, more affordable solution for customers who need reliable internet now. How Fixed Wireless Internet Works The setup is straightforward. A wireless internet service provider (WISP), such as Wisper, installs a small antenna outside your home. That antenna connects to a local tower, which could be a cell tower, grain elevator, or water tower. From the antenna, a cable runs into your home and connects to a wireless router. This router broadcasts the signal throughout your home, allowing you to connect phones, computers, smart TVs, and other devices to the internet. How Fixed Wireless Compares to Other Internet Types Understanding how fixed wireless stacks up against other technologies helps you make a smart decision for your home. Satellite Internet Satellite service sends signals from satellites orbiting thousands of miles above Earth. That distance causes high latency, which means long delays between sending and receiving data. This can make video calls, gaming, and streaming frustrating. By contrast, fixed wireless towers are usually located within five miles of your home. As a result, latency is dramatically lower and speeds are more consistent. DSL DSL uses copper phone lines and is only available within a limited range of a central office. It’s also much slower, with average speeds around 1–3 Mbps. Older phone lines can further reduce performance and reliability. If you’re ready to cut the cord on your landline and upgrade your speed, fixed wireless offers a much better solution. Cable Cable can be fast, but it’s often tied to areas with higher population density. In addition, many customers report poor customer service and unpredictable pricing. Wisper offers comparable speeds to cable with the added benefit of responsive, local support. Fiber-Optic Fiber is the fastest internet option available—but only in some areas. While it offers excellent performance, installation costs can be high and repairs may take longer. If fiber isn’t available in your neighborhood, fixed wireless provides an accessible, high-speed alternative. Does Weather Affect Fixed Wireless Internet? Unlike satellite internet, which often drops during heavy rain or snow, fixed wireless is not typically affected by everyday weather conditions. However, extreme storms, ice, or lightning strikes can cause temporary outages, especially if tower equipment is damaged. Wisper monitors its network 24/7, which means our technicians are alerted immediately when an outage occurs. In rare cases, an antenna called a Yagi may be used in areas with no clear line-of-sight. This type of equipment is more sensitive to ice buildup but is not commonly installed. Is Fixed Wireless Internet Right for You? Fixed wireless is a strong option if: You live in a rural area where other internet types are limited Your current provider doesn’t offer enough speed or reliability You want fast, consistent service with unlimited data It’s also ideal for households that stream frequently, work from home, or have multiple users online at once. Best of all, you don’t need a landline or satellite dish. Check if Wisper Internet is available in your area. About Wisper Internet Wisper Internet began with a simple mission: help people connect. What started as a favor for a friend grew into a full-service internet provider that now serves thousands across the Midwest. Headquartered in Mascoutah, Illinois, we offer fixed wireless internet in Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Indiana, and Oklahoma. Our team is known for solving problems, supporting local communities, and delivering the kind of service we’d want for our own families. We believe fast internet should be available—no matter where you live…. Read More