Definition
Net neutrality is the principle that internet service providers (ISPs) should treat all internet connections equally without preference or discrimination to a particular application, website, or content. Without it, ISPs could dictate when users can access and can’t access.
Benefits of Net Neutrality
- Conserves free speech by forbidding internet service providers from restricting content.
- Safeguards users by prohibiting ISPs from interfering with download speeds or charging extra prices for specific online content.
- Encourages competition among companies by facilitating a level playing field.
Real Examples of Net Neutrality Violations
- AT&T: In 2012, AT&T released a publication saying it would disable FaceTime on its client’s iPhones unless they picked the costlier text-and-voice plan.
- Verizon: In 2012, FCC flagged Verizon Wireless for block-tethering apps on its customer’s phones. These applications implied that users could bypass Verizon’s $20 tethering fee.
- AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint: Between 2011-2013, AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint blocked Google Wallet, a mobile payment system competing with Isis, an identical service the three corporations were developing.