Best Internet Providers in Knoxville, TN

Knoxville Internet Resources for Low-Income Families

Owning a computer with internet access is necessary for school and work, but lower-income families in Knoxville aren’t always able to afford these digital resources. The resulting gap between technology and economically disadvantaged families is known as the digital divide. We put together these digital resources to help Knoxville families in need access affordable devices, internet, and services near them:

Discounted Distance Learning Devices in Knoxville

• PCs for People: Low-income families can shop for digital technology including a refurbished laptop starting at $100 through the PCs for People online store. To qualify for the PCs for People low-cost technology program, potential recipients must demonstrate that they are living at or below the 200 percent poverty line or are currently enrolled in a government welfare program. 
• Knox County Schools: K-12 students who are enrolled in Knox County Schools can use a Chromebook at school and at home for the duration of the school year thanks to the school system’s 1:1 plan. Families can access this service by filling out a Chromebook registration and insurance form using their child’s student number.
• University of Tennessee Knoxville: Students enrolled with an active status at the University of Tennessee Knoxville can borrow a laptop from the Hodges Library Equipment Desk located on the Commons South second floor. Students can check out laptops for six hours, one day, or three days. Returning equipment late costs a fee of 25 cents per hour. 

If you don’t qualify for one of the low-cost and free computer programs above, you can also shop for a refurbished computer at various stores throughout Knoxville. The refurbished machines sold at the following computer stores in the Knoxville area are recycled but work like new and cost a lot less than new devices: 

• Computer Depot
• RJ Technology LLC

Remote Learning Programs and Virtual Child Care Centers in Knoxville

• Knox County Schools: Knox County Schools want their students to have fun learning at school and at home, and the organization provides tools to make that happen! Children can access the school system’s collection of online learning resources for K-8 students covering math, social studies, English language arts, and science. These resources include activity packets and videos, all categorized by grade. 
• Tennessee Department of Human Services: The expense of child care can be overwhelming, but the Tennessee Department of Human Services is here to help. Families in Memphis can access funding assistance for child care through the state’s Smart Steps program. To qualify for the program, parents must demonstrate financial need and that they are working, going to school, or both for at least 30 hours a week. Middle school mothers and high school mothers are also eligible to receive funding. 
• Knoxville Technology Council: If your child always has his or her head in the clouds, they’ll be right at home browsing the online materials provided by the Knoxville Technology Council. These resources provide access to everything from a NASA field trip to STEM science activities, the perfect educational recreation for the budding scientist. 
• Knoxville Public Library: Library cardholding Knoxville residents can access an enormous treasure trove of engaging learning material through the Knox Public Library. Between the library’s online programming, free tutoring, and amazing e-book catalog, learners of all ages will find the educational resources they need, all for free.
• Homework Hotline: To ensure that all children in Tennessee have access to free tutoring, the Homework Hotline works with volunteer teachers to provide free online homework instruction to children during the school week. Interested families can visit the website or call the organization at 615-298-6636.

Free Wireless Internet Access in Knoxville

• WiFiMap.io Map of Free Wi-Fi Hotspots in Knoxville
• Knox County Public Library Branch Locations
• Yelp Best Free Wi-Fi Spots in Knoxville 

The city of Knoxville has also expanded its free Wi-Fi by boosting signals at various locations to give people access to the internet from parking lots at senior centers around town. The following are some senior center locations where you can find free Wi-Fi in Knoxville: 

• Carter Senior Center — 9040 Asheville Hwy.
• Corryton Senior Center — 9331 Davis Dr.
• Halls Senior Center — 4405 Crippen Rd.
• Karns Senior Center — 8042 Oak Ridge Hwy.
• South Knoxville Senior Center — 6729 Martel Lane 

Knoxville families can overcome the digital divide with a little help, including access to free Wi-Fi. Look through our free Wi-Fi coverage map to find out more about the locations making complimentary Wi-Fi available in your area:

Free Wireless Internet Access in Knoxville, TN

400 Main Street

Knoxville, TN 37902

300 West Main Street

Knoxville, TN 37902

4420 Whittle Springs Road

Knoxville, TN 37917

2505 Kingston Pike

Knoxville, TN 37919

2600 Western Avenue

Knoxville, TN 37921

2700 Middlebrook Pike

Knoxville, TN 37921

5401 Kingston Pike

Knoxville, TN 37919

207 Center Park Drive

Knoxville, TN 37922

201 Center Park Drive

Knoxville, TN 37922

2200 East Governor John Sevier Hwy

Knoxville, TN 37920