A month-long consultation into the provision of broadband internet was launched on Thursday.
As part of Essex County Council's £13 million Superfast Essex project, it is asking local people and businesses if they know of any plans to upgrade communications networks in their area.
Telecoms companies and internet service providers have already been asked to share their plans and, using the information provided, produced maps showing broadband levels across the county.
About 180,000 households in the county – or 30 per cent – in the county do not receive superfast broadband services of at least 24mbs, but Superfast Essex aims to make it available to at least 90 per cent of the county's population.
Residents can register on www.superfastessex.org
County councillor Kevin Bentley, cabinet member for economic growth, said: "This consultation moves us a step closer to being able to begin the work which will enable residents to receive superfast broadband services.
"As well as this consultation, we are still asking residents to register their interest on www.superfastessex.org, as this is helping us get a clearer picture of the parts of county that need at upgrade."
