Iowa Network Services > About INS >The INS Story

In 1988, before any widespread awareness of the Internet or the advantages of larger bandwidth and fiber optics, the Rural Independent Telephone Companies of Iowa demonstrated the necessary vision to bridge what they saw as a threatening gap in technology between rural and urban areas.

While larger telephone companies were preparing to make large investments in cable and infrastructure, many of the smaller companies, some with less than 200 end users, faced a reality of extinction. To better serve the interests of their customers, these smaller companies formed Iowa Network Services.

With a common direction and purpose, this collective interest, in turn, created a competitive and efficient telecommunications system. Today, the collaborative effort of 147 Rural Independent Telephone Companies is evident throughout Iowa. And, with an extensive network of fiber optic cabling spanning the entire state, customers can expect the availability of even more products and services.

Iowa Network Services now proudly serves over 500,000 Iowans in 330 communities statewide. By delivering state-of-the-industry products and services to our customers, we're on the right side of the digital divide.

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