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As 2024 comes to an end, we at GigabitNow are reflecting on how far Highlands Fiber Network (HFN) has come and gearing up for an incredible 2025. Running HFN has been more than just managing an Internet network—it’s been about building something that serves Issaquah Highlands today while preparing for what’s next.
From our beginnings in the early 2000s to becoming one of the top fiber networks in the country, HFN has always been driven by innovation, resilience, and community. And as we prepare for our biggest upgrade yet, we’re excited to share the story of how we got here.
HFN’s story began in 1997 when Issaquah Highlands was still being developed. Port Blakely Communities envisioned a neighborhood that wasn’t just modern—it was ahead of its time. That vision included reliable high-speed Internet as a key amenity, which was rare back then.
The plan kicked off with a third-party operator, Vialight, taking on the challenge of building and managing the network. But by 2001, financial troubles forced Vialight to shut down, leaving the network’s future in question. Port Blakely stepped in, taking ownership of the network and forming Highlands Fiber Network to keep the community connected.
In the early 2000s, it became clear that the original network wasn’t cutting it. The technology was unreliable, and residents were rightfully frustrated. That’s when we took a major leap forward.
In 2004, HFN transitioned to fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) technology, replacing outdated systems with a faster, more reliable network that could grow with the community. This upgrade was a game-changer, positioning HFN as a cutting-edge Internet provider.
This was also the year GigabitNow got involved. We were brought in to manage daily operations, ensuring the network ran smoothly while allowing HFN to focus on growth. It wasn’t long before we expanded our role to include more responsibilities, such as helping oversee infrastructure improvements and supporting long-term upgrades.
In 2013, Issaquah Highlands residents made the bold decision to purchase HFN, making it one of the first community-owned fiber networks in the U.S.
With community ownership, everything changed. Decisions weren’t driven by profit or shareholders—they were made by and for the people of Issaquah Highlands. This shift allowed HFN to focus entirely on what mattered most: delivering great service, keeping costs low, and continuously improving the network.
GigabitNow worked alongside the community to ensure this transition was seamless. We took on additional responsibilities to support the network’s operations, upgrades, and day-to-day needs, helping HFN thrive under its new ownership.
Looking back, there have been so many important moments that shaped HFN into what it is today. Here are just a few highlights:
Now, we’re preparing for the next big step in HFN’s journey. Starting in 2025, we’ll begin rolling out a new fiber network that will deliver speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps (2,500 Mbps)—at no extra cost to residents.
This upgrade isn’t just about faster Internet. Fiber technology is future-proof, meaning it’s built to handle the demands of tomorrow, whether that’s smart homes, remote work, or streaming in 8K (yes, that’s a thing). It’s our way of ensuring that Issaquah Highlands stays ahead of the curve.
GigabitNow has been deeply involved in planning this upgrade, and we’re proud to bring this next generation of fiber to your neighborhood.
Running HFN has taught us a lot about what makes a network truly great. It’s not just about speed or reliability—though we’re proud to deliver both. It’s about listening to the community, adapting to its needs, and always looking ahead.
Every upgrade, every decision, and every milestone has been driven by one goal: to make life better for the people who live in Issaquah Highlands. And as we approach 2025, we’re more committed to that mission than ever.
HFN’s story is about more than just Internet—it’s about what happens when a community comes together to create something amazing. From our early days to the exciting upgrades ahead, we’re proud to be part of this journey with you.
Thank you for trusting HFN and GigabitNow to keep you connected. We can’t wait to see what the future holds, and we’re excited to bring you the next chapter in 2025.
Here’s to a faster, smarter, more connected year ahead. Happy New Year from all of us at GigabitNow and Highlands Fiber Network!