IBM teams with Hughes

IBM Corp. is bringing Hughes Network Systems on board its program to enable rural governments in the United States to operate Web sites.

Customers of IBM's Totally Web Government program will be able to use Hughes' Direcway broadband satellite connectivity for their Web sites. The satellite service makes Internet access possible for rural and remote areas of the country that lack either DSL or cable modem Internet connections.

Through the Totally Web Government program, which is targeted for communities of less than 50,000, municipalities can use a template to build a low-cost Web site that enables citizens to go online and find out about community events, pay a utility bill or send e-mail to municipal officials.

Sixty-five municipalities in nine states are in the program, which is affiliated with the National League of Cities and the National Association of Counties, both of Washington, IBM said.