Mapping the Future of Open Tech.
The X-Lab is a non-profit research institution leading national and international efforts to increase digital equity and inclusion. We leverage a pragmatic, unified and holistic approach to better tech policy through a non-partisan, inclusive and grassroots practice.
01 / DISCOVERY
Capturing the digital pulse of global infrastructure.
Our Mission
"To promote and protect the freedom, openness, and security of the internet through research, advocacy, and the development of innovative technical solutions."
Our Values
Radical Integrity
We believe that research is only as strong as the independence behind it. Our work is guided by data, not donors. All of our research follows open source, open standards, and open data principles. The X-Lab Consortium spans Penn State, Washington State University, University of Chicago, Institute for Local Self-Reliance, and industry partners.
Collaborative Innovation
X-Lab is a strong supporter of efforts to close the digital divide and achieve universal, affordable baseline connectivity. We are fervent supporters of and participants in the open source, open standards and open data movements. All of our work follows these principles and we strive to make our research available and understandable to everyone. The internet is a shared resource. We build bridges between academia, industry, and activists to solve systemic technological challenges.
Strategic Transparency
We strive to make our research available and understandable to everyone. Opening the black box of tech policy by providing clear, accessible, and reproducible research for policy makers at every level.
Prototyping Policy
We don't just write papers; we build tools. From the Broadband Nutrition Label to Commotion Wireless to Measurement Lab (M-Lab), we create functional prototypes that prove better policies are technically viable.
Global Stewardship
Advocating for digital rights that transcend borders. We have built community wireless networks across North America, South America, Africa, and Asia, and consulted with U.S. and global leaders on election security and pro-democracy movements.
Ready to collaborate?
Join our mission to build a more secure and open digital ecosystem. Whether you're a researcher, developer, or policy expert, we want to hear from you.