Broadband Discrimination And Network Neutrality.pdf

The Internet has revolutionized the way Americans access media, with the FCC responsible for regulating the electromagnetic spectrum, but not the Internet. Network Neutrality is the principle that preserves the free and open Internet, and the FCC is rallying behind it, while large telephone and cable companies oppose it, wanting to charge consumers for smooth access to websites and applications. The concept of Network Neutrality dates back to 2005, when the FCC classified the Internet as an "information service" and adopted four principles to preserve a free and open Internet. The fundamental idea is that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) may not discriminate between different kinds of content and applications online. Currently, all Internet users can access any website on an equal basis, but some companies want to create a two-tiered Internet with fast and slow lanes, charging extra fees for preferential treatment. Proponents of Network Neutrality, including consumer advocates and online companies, believe that the Internet should remain open and free, while opponents, including broadband carriers, want to manage their networks and generate revenue by discriminating against certain content. The biggest challenge is the regulation of the Internet, as the FCC does not have the authority to control it, but the commission is still fighting for the cause, proposing additional rules to ensure Network Neutrality.