What You Should Know About Net Neutrality
Since the Internet arrived on the global scene, many changes have taken place in the way the world operates. Using computerized devices to access information, communicate, and conduct business has become a way of life. There are many employment positions that exist today that weren’t even fathomed before the Internet became accessible. Some examples of computer-related careers are software engineers, content writers, global marketing specialists, and IT technicians. What would happen if we didn’t have free and reliable Internet access backed up by net neutrality principles.
Net Neutrality
Net neutrality allows free speech and open Internet access for all, so should be protected. The basic principle behind network neutrality is that Internet service providers should transfer applications and content.
- Regardless of the source
- Without favoring content/products/websites
- Without blocking content/products/websites
Telecommunication Giants
The majority of individuals get their high-speed Internet from a handful of telecommunication companies. Protective measures put in place by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) protect the transfer of data. The rules prevent providers of broadband from:
- Manipulating Information
- Analyzing data
- Charging for faster conduits
Telecoms’ Interference
Although telecommunication companies don’t have the right to interfere with Internet data yet, they have expressed interest in doing so. Some of the reasons telecoms would want to change the rules include:
- For corporate interests
- To increase profit
- To block competition
Why You Should Care
You may wonder why you should care about network neutrality. Everything’s worked out so far, right? You should care because open Internet access is a freedom not to be taken for granted. Troubles in the past have occurred, such as:
- A January 2014 major court decision took away some of the FCC’s power.
- The court decision provided an opening for telecommunication companies to exploit technology.
Recent Developments
Although some of the FCC’s powers were blocked in 2014, the agency still has capabilities. The Federal Communication Commission has worked to change the classification of broadband carriers, for example, to shift their abilities to enforce protective measures. As a citizen, you have power, too, and can make your voice heard by:
- Telling your friends and family members about net neutrality
- Signing petitions that support Internet freedom and openness
- Writing to your congressman and other governmental officials
- Donating financially to organizations that work to keep a free and equal Internet
- Volunteering your time to support neutral networking
The world has grown accustomed to free and reliable Internet access, where network neutrality principles are a given. Being an advocate for net neutrality is being a fan of free speech, so protect your rights and others around the globe by spreading the word about this important issue.
