What is Net Neutrality?
In short, it’s the FCCs rules which require companies, in particular Internet Service Providers (ISPs) like Verizon, Cox, etc. , to treat all content equally. These rules (note that they are rules, not laws) prohibit ISPs from blocking or discriminating against lawful Internet content.
In a world where ISPs are playing multiple roles (content creator and content distributor, to name a few), the Net Neutrality rules are designed to protect the consumer. For example, Verizon (who now owns AOL and Yahoo) cannot slow down content from Facebook and Google. Cox Communciations cannot slow down content from Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu (or even worse, block Netflix altogether), in an effort to curb the trend of cord cutting. ISPs cannot “throttle down” startups developing competing online services. Nor can these ISPs charge more for content from one company versus another.
In short, Net Neutrality recognizes that unique position that ISPs have in delivering what is arguably a public service built initially with public funding, and imposes rules to ensure that they maintain a level playing field for all Internet providers.
Why Is Everyone Talking About Net Neutrality?
Consumer protections under Net Neutrality changed yesterday. Claiming that Net Neutrality rules are not necessary in the protection of consumer choice and freedom of speak, the FCC voted 3-2 to eliminate the key consumer protections afforded in Net Neutrality. This means that ISPs are no longer limited in how they prioritize content delivery via the Internet.
What’s Being Done Now To Protect Net Neutrality?
Several state Attorney Generals have moved challenge the FCC ruling. Others are using existing state subsidies as a carrot to force ISPs to maintain Net Neutrality rules. In either case, we’ve moved from a unified nationwide system to a state by state system … which hardly seems efficient.
What Can You Do?
At this point, the best thing you can do is contact your legislators. Congress can enact a law that would offer the same protections as the FCC rules. This is a topic that impacts Internet companies and consumers alike.