The County of Brant is taking a data-driven approach to improving local internet infrastructure, launching a new partnership with the Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA) to measure broadband performance across the region.
As demand for high-speed internet grows—fueled by remote work, online learning, and digital services—many communities continue to struggle with connectivity gaps.
While government funding has been directed toward broadband expansion in rural areas, concerns remain over whether those investments are delivering meaningful improvements.
“We all recognize the importance of having access to reliable, high-speed broadband,” said County of Brant Ward 4 Councillor David Miller.
“The pandemic made this abundantly clear. To that end, all three levels of government have worked with Internet Service Providers to bring broadband to those lacking it. Partnering with CIRA to monitor internet performance is an excellent tool to help us ensure that the taxpayer-invested monies are being effectively utilized across our County.”
The County’s move comes amid increasing scrutiny over internet service levels, particularly in rural and semi-rural regions where residents frequently report inconsistent speeds and unreliable connections.
At the heart of the initiative is CIRA’s Internet Performance Test (IPT)—a tool that allows residents to measure and record their internet speeds, providing local officials with a clearer picture of service levels.
The test collects data on download and upload speeds, network latency, and other key performance indicators, offering an evidence-based approach to assessing broadband access.
CIRA, best known for managing Canada’s .CA domain, has worked with municipalities across the country to map connectivity issues.
Jeff Buell, Program Manager of CIRA’s Internet Performance Test, said these efforts are crucial in helping local governments advocate for better service.
“This initiative aligns with our mission to empower Canadian communities with the insights they need to make data-driven decisions about reducing barriers to digital access,” Buell said.
The data will help determine whether existing broadband infrastructure is delivering on its promises—or whether further improvements are needed.In recent years, government-backed programs have sought to expand high-speed internet access in underserved areas, with Internet Service Providers (ISPs) awarded funding to upgrade networks.
However, some Brant County residents say they still face slow speeds, frequent outages, and service inconsistencies, raising questions about the effectiveness of these investments.
“On paper, we’re supposed to have high-speed internet, but the reality is different,” said Steve Landry, a resident in the rural part of the County. “Some days, I can barely stream a video, let alone work from home.”
That frustration isn’t unique to Brant. Across Canada, rural communities have long reported broadband shortfalls, even as funding flows toward expansion projects. By collecting real-time data, local officials hope to identify problem areas and push for stronger accountability from ISPs.
For the initiative to be successful, the County is urging residents to run the IPT test frequently, capturing data at different times of the day to get a full picture of broadband performance.
To get the most accurate results, officials recommend:
- Testing near your wireless router or using a wired connection when possible.
- Stopping any large downloads or streaming while running the test.
- Running tests at different times, including peak hours.
The information will help local leaders identify network bottlenecks and push for targeted improvements where service is weakest.
“This is about making sure people get the connectivity they’re paying for,” said Miller. “If the data shows there are issues, we can take that to the companies responsible and demand better.”
With participation from residents, the County aims to compile a comprehensive broadband performance report, which could be used to push for policy changes, funding reallocation, or new infrastructure investments.
For now, officials say they are focused on gathering as much data as possible—and giving residents a chance to weigh in on the state of internet service in their communities.
“The more people participate, the stronger our case will be,” Miller said.
Residents can take the test through CIRA’s website, with results feeding into a broader initiative to map Brant County’s digital landscape—and close its connectivity gaps.
