The paper examines the digital divide between rural and urban areas in Poland, focusing on the differences in Internet access and usage. The authors highlight that while rural areas have historically faced challenges due to lower population densities and greater distances from urban markets, the Internet has become a potential equalizer for development opportunities. The study uses data from surveys and statistical sources to analyze the evolution of Internet access and usage in Poland, particularly in rural areas. Key findings include: 1. **Access to the Internet**: While physical access to the Internet has improved, with rural areas catching up to urban areas, the digital divide remains significant. 2. **Usage Patterns**: Urban areas tend to use the Internet more for communication, information, and self-development, while rural areas use it more for entertainment. 3. **Digital Competence**: There are notable differences in digital competence between rural and urban areas, with urban residents generally having higher levels of digital skills. 4. **Geographical Influence**: Proximity to large cities positively influences digital competence in rural areas, but there are exceptions. 5. **Policy and Future Directions**: The authors emphasize the need for targeted policies to address the digital divide, particularly in rural areas, to ensure equitable access and usage of modern technologies. The paper concludes that while the infrastructure aspect of the digital divide has narrowed, the user digital divide remains a critical issue, requiring further research and targeted interventions to bridge the gap.The paper examines the digital divide between rural and urban areas in Poland, focusing on the differences in Internet access and usage. The authors highlight that while rural areas have historically faced challenges due to lower population densities and greater distances from urban markets, the Internet has become a potential equalizer for development opportunities. The study uses data from surveys and statistical sources to analyze the evolution of Internet access and usage in Poland, particularly in rural areas. Key findings include: 1. **Access to the Internet**: While physical access to the Internet has improved, with rural areas catching up to urban areas, the digital divide remains significant. 2. **Usage Patterns**: Urban areas tend to use the Internet more for communication, information, and self-development, while rural areas use it more for entertainment. 3. **Digital Competence**: There are notable differences in digital competence between rural and urban areas, with urban residents generally having higher levels of digital skills. 4. **Geographical Influence**: Proximity to large cities positively influences digital competence in rural areas, but there are exceptions. 5. **Policy and Future Directions**: The authors emphasize the need for targeted policies to address the digital divide, particularly in rural areas, to ensure equitable access and usage of modern technologies. The paper concludes that while the infrastructure aspect of the digital divide has narrowed, the user digital divide remains a critical issue, requiring further research and targeted interventions to bridge the gap.