Access Defined

Access is one of the cornerstones of communication policies and regulations. There is two version of access that needs to be addressed for universal access to be available. Hardware availability and network connectivity comprise the first level of access, material access. Without these primary physical considerations, access to the online mediated public sphere is made virtually impossible. This access does not mean free connectivity; it means that the infrastructure must be there for those to connect with the interactive world. The second type of access is more intangible. Literacy and awareness are necessary for maintaining the constant flow of information. Awareness covers the knowledge on how to use access to access relevant materials. Also, there needs to be access to the skills necessary to maintain a social presence in the mediated superstructure of the Internet.