Net Neutrality

o What is meant by the term ‘net neutrality’?

Net Neutrality is a principle proposed for user access networks participating in the internet that advocates no restrictions on content, sites, or platforms, on the kinds of equipment that may be attached, and on the modes of communication allowed, as well as communication that is not unreasonably degraded by other traffic.

o What are the four freedoms?

Freedom to access legal content
Freedom to use applications of the users' choice
Freedom to attach personal devices to connections in users' homes
Freedom to obtain service plan information

o What problems could we face if the net was not neutral?

A problem we would face if the internet was not neutral would be going to sites that we would normally go to. We would have to pay extra money to our internet provider to be able to go on certain sites.

o Why do large telecommunications companies oppose net neutrality?

Large telecommunications companies oppose net neutrality and argue that prioritisation of bandwidth is necessary for future innovation on the Internet. By giving online companies willing to pay the ability to transfer their data packages faster than other Internet traffic. The added revenue from such services could be used to pay for the building of increased broadband access to more consumers.

o How does the net neutrality issue affect wireless communications (and your cell phone!)?

"We are concerned, however, that the FCC appears ready to extend the entire array of Net neutrality requirements to what is perhaps the most competitive consumer market in America: wireless services," This affects wireless communication and our cell phones because now we can access any website anywhere at anytime.

o What is your opinion? Should there be net neutrality? Consider that your internet access may be slower if the net is not restricted. Consider that, if the net is not neutral, broadband providers can block certain peer-to-peer applications and certain online games.

I think there should be net neutrality. I want to be able to access any website or search engine that I want. I should be able to get the same speed at any site. I think I would be super board if I wasn't able to access certain online games. And I'm sure my mom would not be paying the extra money to get the equal access if it wasn't net neutral.