Are you familiar with Net Neutrality? Well, Network Neutrality is a principle that is being proposed for user access to networks participating in the internet that promotes no restrictions on the contents, sites, platform, as well as on the modes of communication allowed. In other words it is more of having an “open internet” just like a highway having all lanes open to everyone.
The internet has been a major information highway and it is extremely important that no matter how big or small everyone gets equal access. However at present, phone and cable monopolies has been controlling almost all internet access by choosing who gets access to high speed lanes as well as whose content will be seen first and fastest .
Making the internet open has enabled a great exchange of ideas as well as the development of significant innovations. Therefore, it is very essential that we find ways to protect and ensure the openness of the Internet as well as encourage the use of broadband.
And back in October, Google and Verizon came up together with a “joint policy proposal” regarding network neutrality. This joint policy proposal focused on seven key elements which are summarized as follows:
- Consumer Protection- wired ISPs will be prohibited from blocking any lawful traffic their customers want and allow them to have access to all legal content on the internet and use whatever application, services or device they desire as long as it doesn’t harm the network or other users.
- Non-discrimination – Under this, wired ISP’s would not be able to discriminate and prioritize traffic or contents in such a way that may harm competition or users.
- Transparency- under this enforceable transparency rules will be created. Wireless networks, ISP’s and carriers need to disclose accurate and relevant information about what their networks are capable of, their plans as well as how they managed them.
- Network Management- under this ISPs and carriers are allowed to engage in technically sound network management practices to ensure security, address harmful traffic, ensure service quality as well as reduce congestion.
- Additional Line Service- allows broadband providers to offer additional and other differentiated non-internet services to subscribers.
- Wireless Broadband- under this proposal, most of the wireline principles would not be applied to wireless networks except the transparency requirement.
- Broadband access for Americans- supports reform of the Federal Universal Service Fund and focused on deploying broadband in areas where it is not currently available
Apparently, net neutrality will not be implemented on wireless carriers but simply focuses in wireline broadband and wired ISP services. Although it is a little bit bothering since internet usage has significantly increased in mobile devices on wireless networks lately.
This policy framework appears to empower consumers while also allowing broadband providers the flexibility to manage their networks. With all of these only one thing is important: that the internet continues to grow and be an avenue for more innovations. Let us know what you think about this matter in the comments section.
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Tags: google verizon joint policy proposal, google verizon net neutrality explained
