As one would expect, internet usage has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

Fran Moran from Access Communications says in large part, it’s from people working from home and using web-streaming services on a much more regular basis.

Moran said phone usage is also up.

“As customers are keeping in touch with their colleagues, family and friends, we’re seeing higher numbers than even mother’s day and other holidays.”

Moran said connection remains strong across the network despite the increase in internet use.

“Don’t get me wrong, congestion is a concern, and if (demand) continues to grow, it could be a concern down the road,” Moran said. “What we’re seeing now is customers are the ones making the jump preemptively to faster network speeds.

“The speeds they had before on their internet just isn’t good enough when the entire household is video-conferencing, watching TV, or (using) streaming services.”

Moran said Access is taking their own measures during the pandemic.

“We’re fast-tracking some planned network upgrades because we anticipate that this demand is going to continue growing,” Moran said. “We’ve mobilized our workforce, so we have our entire staff team set up to continue working from home.”

In-home service is still taking place, but staff are using social distancing measures while inside of a customer’s home.

Access Communications has closed their offices due to COVID-19, but has kept the Regina location’s drive-thru open. Moran says the drive-thru follows social distancing protocol.