Because many of us grew up using the Internet, we sometimes take it for granted. Due to advances in technology, we are always able to log on and access whatever sites we want, whenever we want. We are constantly uploading pictures, watching videos, listening to podcasts, e-mailing and instant messaging, often attaching devices like wireless routers to better our online experience. Network Neutrality would make all this possible.
What is it?
Network Neutrality is the guiding principle that preserves the free and open Internet. Net Neutrality is the principle that supports no restrictions by Internet Service Providers or governments on consumers’ access to networks that participate in the Internet. Net Neutrality would prevent restrictions on content, sites, platforms, types of equipment that may be attached, and modes of communication. It is the notation that all Internet traffic should be treated equally. It guarantees a level playing field for all Websites and Internet technologies. But all this could change.
The biggest cable and telephone companies want to charge money for fast access to Web sites. They believe they should be able to charge Website operators, application providers and device manufacturers for the right to use the network and for all those who don’t pay; their sites won’t load as quickly, and their applications and devices won’t work as well.
Supporter vs. Non Supporters:
Since the early 2000s, supports of net neutrality have raised concerns about the ability of broadband providers to use their last mile infrastructure to block Internet applications and content and even block out competitors.
The possibility of regulations on the Internet has been major subject of debate, especially in the United States. Neutrality promoters want to remove competition, create artificial scarcity, and oblige subscribers to buy their otherwise uncompetitive services.
Vinton Cerf, considered a “father of the Internet” and co-inventor of the Internet Protocol, Tim Berners-Lee, creator of the Web have spoken out in favor of network neutrality. While, non-supporters of net neutrality claim that broadband service providers have no plans to block any content or slow down network performance. Despite this claim, Comcast, an Internet service provider, did intentionally slow down peer-to-peer communications.
Critics of net neutrality also dispute that data discrimination, is highly desirable. Opponents of net neutrality regulation also argue that the best solution to discrimination by broadband providers is to encourage greater competition among such providers.
Problems:
Discrimination: The Internet was designed as a free and open medium. The main idea since the beginning of the Internet was that every site, would be treated with discrimination. That’s how bloggers can compete with with big name news stations for readers. Discrimination endangers our basic Internet freedoms.
More charges: We are paying networks for access to the Internet, but now we have to pay for things we do while using the Internet. They may not charge you directly via pay-per-view Web sites. But they will charge all the service providers you use.
The End of the Internet?
The free-flowing Internet that we grew up using, may very well become history.
This means that the internet could now be a pay-per-view Internet where Web sites have fees. We would have to pay a network tax to run voice-over-the-Internet phones, use an advanced search engine, or chat via Instant Messenger. The next generation of inventions will be shut out of the top-tier service level, while the network owners will rake in even greater profits.
Totally Tech! 