Article

David Bloxham
David Bloxham 28 April 2017
Categories Technology

Net Neutrality, The Opposition and How It Could Affect the Internet

Net neutrality has caused much debate, and with FCC chairman Ajit Pai potentially scrapping the current system this week, we look at what this could mean for the internet.

One minute Trump was for net neutrality. Now he opposes it. Net neutrality is where internet service providers (ISPs) provide everyone with open and equal access to online networks. In other words, there are no disruptions to the content you view or post online, you’re not only provided with content that your ISP agrees with and charges aren’t incurred depending on the sites you use. Net neutrality has caused much debate, and with FCC chairman Ajit Pai potentially scrapping the current system this week, we look at what this could mean for the internet.

But first, with a seemingly beneficial system, why the debate? Ever since the FCC granted the Title II Net Neutrality Rules in February 2015, ensuring that, ‘Americans reap the economic, social and civic benefits of an Open Internet’ with ‘fast, fair and open’ broadband networks, there has been backlash from companies such as AT&T, Verizon and other communication providers claiming that competition is key in this sector and there would be difficulty in recouping investments made if net neutrality continued, potentially reducing future improvements to networks. Though net neutrality was upheld in June 2016, pleasing millions of Americans who voiced their support, Trump and Ajit Pai currently oppose it, taking the providers’ side. Through their combined standing they could remove net neutrality from the internet.

What could this mean for the internet? Providers could place the internet into fast and slow lanes, slowing down competitors’ content, and block access to viewpoints they disagreed with. ISPs could instate a fee system, where companies pay for preferential treatment ensuring their websites work faster and they appear higher in related search results. Also, ISPs may charge their customers on a usage basis or block services such as Google Maps and charge for their own versions. This clearly limits the open network.

"The FCC have a choice to make. Keeping net neutrality is a commitment towards offering today's entrepreneurs the same opportunities the founders of Google or Paypal had, ensuring everyone can have a voice online, and guaranteeing that poorer or rural communities can enjoy the same quality of content as wealthy urban dwellers. Scrapping net neutrality rules would give big cable companies a green light to carve up the internet and pick winners and losers online based on who has the deepest pockets." Craig Fagan, Policy Director at the World Wide Web Foundation

Net neutrality encourages a level playing field for companies, gives freedom of content choice and ensures equal access so that those in lower socio-economic status don’t miss out because of imposed fees. Scrapping it could not only limit these benefits, but also prevent new companies from getting their voices heard, as well as potentially stopping freedom of speech. Though we cannot be certain of the extent of Ajit Pai’s plans, we can only hope it benefits as many people as possible.  

Please login or register to add a comment.

Contribute Now!

Loving our articles? Do you have an insightful post that you want to shout about? Well, you've come to the right place! We are always looking for fresh Doughnuts to be a part of our community.

Popular Articles

See all
Is Email Dead, Or Are We Just Bored With It?

Is Email Dead, Or Are We Just Bored With It?

In today's digital era dominated by social media, instant messaging, and collaboration tools, one question looms large: Does email still have a role to play? Some argue that it's on life support, while others...

Julia Herd
Julia Herd 22 November 2023
Read more
The Innovative Digital Marketing Strategies Leveraging AI

The Innovative Digital Marketing Strategies Leveraging AI

This article will assist digital marketers in grasping the advantages and disadvantages of employing artificial intelligence in their online marketing tactics. You will learn about the effects of AI on online...

joseph chain
joseph chain 17 October 2023
Read more
Marketing Emails vs Newsletters: What’s the Difference?

Marketing Emails vs Newsletters: What’s the Difference?

If anyone can clarify the difference between marketing emails and newsletters, it’s Alexander Melone, co-founder of San Francisco-based email marketing agency CodeCrew. But, as we’re about to find out, the distinction...

Alex Melone
Alex Melone 14 November 2023
Read more
Customer-Centric Marketing: The Heartbeat of Modern UK Retail

Customer-Centric Marketing: The Heartbeat of Modern UK Retail

The UK retail scene, with its diverse offerings from luxe brands to quaint local stores, is witnessing a paradigm shift: The rise of customer-centric marketing. This isn’t just about selling; it’s about understanding,...

Andrew Addison
Andrew Addison 21 November 2023
Read more
Best Practices for Effective Dashboard Design

Best Practices for Effective Dashboard Design

In the age of data-driven operations, dashboards have emerged as an essential tool for businesses. They serve as a gateway to data, enabling users to monitor, analyze, and visually represent vital performance...

Ravi Shukla
Ravi Shukla 17 November 2023
Read more