P2P Foundation

“Net Neutrality”, also known as “Internet Neutrality” and “Network Neutrality”, is more of an idea than it is a set of rules, and the basic tenet is that Internet providers and governing bodies should not deny access to anybody seeking to use the net, regardless of content, sites, and myriad other applications. Rights of free speech are often cited to foster the philosophy of a hands-off government policy. Below are some points to ponder as the debate continues.

1. Pro – Those who favor net neutrality say it promotes fair competition by not allowing ISP’s to dictate content, applications or usage.
2. Con – Opponents of the idea of mandated Internet Neutrality say it is not a necessary concept since Internet Providers have no intention of manipulating the market in their favor by limiting access to the net.
3. Pro – Supporters of neutrality say providers are seeking monopolies by imposing a tiered service that basically squeezes the pipeline, restricting access of competition.
4. Con – Some computer scientists believe that an enforced policy of net neutrality will stifle innovation, and limit incentives for continued research.
5. Netflix – Very popular, Netflix is an example of the kind of company that could suffer greatly if Internet providers constrict the pipeline, almost forcing consumers to choose ISP versions of the Netflix model.

The next set of items encapsulates the philosophy of “Net Neutrality”.

1. Access – Users should be able to access any lawful content they wish to access.
2. Devices – Customers should be able to connect any legal devices to the net that they want to connect, without interference from a provider or government.
3. Competition – Consumers want free and open competition among various service and content providers, and net neutrality, in concept, addresses those concerns.
4. Discrimination – The ideas behind net neutrality would ban or severely limit the ability of a provider or government to deny access to any service, content or application.
5. Clear as Glass – ISP’s, operating under principles of neutrality, would be completely transparent as far as how they manage their business.

Even among those who support the idea of a free and open Internet there is a hot debate over whether-or-not governments need to step in to enforce the ideals. Many would have us rely on the integrity of service providers, while others are adamantly opposed to self-policing, saying it will just bring out the worst the net could possibly deliver. The situation is fluid, as all users and providers are still searching for the “perfect Net”.

Source: www.dslserviceproviders.org/blog/10-things-to-know-about-net-neutrality-rules/