Cybersecurity Pilot Program

As broadband connectivity and Internet access have become essential for K-12 students and adults, the security and safety of networks and data has become of vital importance. Although broadband connectivity and Internet access can simplify and enhance the education and daily lives of K-12 students, school staff, and library patrons, they can also be used by malicious actors to steal personal information, compromise online accounts, and cause online personal harm or embarrassment. In response to the growing importance of cybersecurity to broadband connectivity and Internet access for K-12 schools and libraries, and in light of the increase in cyberattacks to disrupt or disable these critical networks, the Federal Communications Commission (Commission or FCC) established the Schools and Libraries Cybersecurity pilot program (Pilot or Pilot Program), a three-year pilot program within the Universal Service Fund (USF or Fund) to provide up to $200 million to defray the costs of eligible cybersecurity services and equipment for schools, libraries, and consortia of schools and libraries. Eligible schools, libraries, and consortia comprised of schools and libraries selected to participate in the Pilot Program may request and receive support through the Pilot Program to purchase a wide range of eligible cybersecurity services and equipment that best suit their particular needs, subject to budget ceilings, budget floors and per-student and per-library multipliers. During this short-term Pilot Program, the Commission will gather key data on the types of cybersecurity services and equipment that K-12 schools and libraries need to protect their broadband networks and data, and ensure that students, school staff, and library patrons are able to connect to advanced communications that are integral to education. Data and information collected through this Pilot Program may also aid in the considerations of broader efforts across the government to help schools and libraries address their cybersecurity concerns.