The ISPs on Net Neutrality

The outcome of the net neutrality debate could have big implications for the future of online media.  The FCC recently announced its support for net neutrality.  The FCC rules would prohibit ISPs from “discriminating against particular Internet content or applications.”  The FCC has also launched a new website, OpenInternet.gov, for public comments on the topic.

In the meantime, many ISPs and other groups, oppose the net neutrality movement.  They say that these are rules in search of a problem.  Opponents claim that there is no large scale movement to created tiered access to content, assess overage fees to heavy users of rich media or restrict the access of a competing ISP’s content.  They also say that they need to have flexibility on controlling their pipelines to guarantee the best quality service to their customers.

This topic is not easily described in just a few paragraphs.  Nor are the arguments as black and white as people on both sides of the issue present them.  To find out more about net neutrality, visit the OpeneInternet.org site, or links such as this one with general information, this one from supporters and this from net neutrality opponents.