Core Tech Support Networks and Digital Inequalities in American Disadvantaged Urban Communities

Abstract

This study originates the construct of core tech support networks to understand the most fundamental digital inequality issues that remain in disadvantaged communities. Beyond social inequalities, digital factors, and social capital, this study explores how three different characteristics of core tech support networks are related to digital inequalities, such as gaps in Internet use and basic digital skills. The results show that the overall size of core tech support networks and the better resources embedded in the networks can narrow gaps in Internet use and the presence of basic digital skills. However, they do not further improve the proficiency levels of basic digital skills. Core tech support networks' composition based on tie strength is not related to inequalities in either Internet use or basic digital skills. This study provides both valuable theoretical and practical implications for digital inequalities and digital inclusion.