Cameron Miranda
Net neutrality is the principle that all internet data should be treated equally, and that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) should not discriminate against or prioritize the transmission of certain digital traffic. Net neutrality laws aim to ensure that access to the internet remains open and fair, with ISPs treating all lawful content and internet communications equally. While some countries have enacted net neutrality laws, others have approached the issue differently, and there is ongoing debate over how to regulate the internet. In the absence of net neutrality, ISPs can control the speed at which websites load and whether they are allowed to load at all, potentially leading to a monopoly over the internet and restricting users' freedom.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Net neutrality is the principle that all Internet traffic should be treated equally. |
| Synonyms | Information freedom, network neutrality, device neutrality |
| History | The term was coined by Columbia University media law professor Tim Wu in 2002 or 2003 as an extension of the longstanding concept of a common carrier. |
| Opposition | Comcast, AT&T, Verizon, IBM, Intel, Cisco, Nokia, Qualcomm, Broadcom, Juniper, D-Link, Wintel, Alcatel-Lucent, Corning, Panasonic, Ericsson, Oracle, Akamai, and others. |
| Supporters | The Obama administration, Kevin Martin, then-Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, Google, BEUC (European Consumer Organisation), the Electronic Frontier Foundation, the Hermes Center for Transparency and Digital Human Rights, and several US states. |
| Actions | Advocate for net neutrality at the state level, sign petitions, contact elected officials, spread awareness, and support net neutrality organizations. |
| Benefits | Promotes free speech and idea sharing, prevents ISPs from regulating or prohibiting content, enables business freedom and consumer choice, fosters innovation, and ensures a level playing field for all companies, regardless of size. |
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What You'll Learn
Understand net neutrality and its history
Net neutrality is the principle that all Internet traffic should be treated equally. Internet service providers (ISPs) should not discriminate between different kinds of content on the Internet and should not block, slow down, or charge different rates for specific online content. The concept of net neutrality first took off in the early 2000s with the advent of broadband internet connections.
The history of net neutrality in the United States can be traced back to the Mann-Elkins Act of 1910, which classified services such as telegrams and the phone network as "common carriers". This meant that they were akin to public utilities and expressly forbidden to give preferential treatment to certain content or discriminate based on distinctions. The concept of net neutrality gained popularity in the early 2000s with the advent of broadband internet connections, as the number of ISPs decreased, leading to a greater incentive to limit competing services.
In 2005, the FCC issued a new rule that reclassified DSL as a Title I information service, allowing them to operate without regulation from the FCC. In 2006, a campaign against net neutrality was funded by AT&T, with members including BellSouth, Alcatel, Cingular, and Citizens Against Government Waste. In 2007, the FCC enforced a complaint against Comcast for throttling bandwidth for customers using file-sharing software, sparking a debate about net neutrality. In 2008, Kevin Martin, then-Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, stated that he was "ready, willing and able" to prevent broadband ISPs from unreasonably interfering with their subscribers' access to content on the internet.
In 2015, the Obama FCC put in place comprehensive network neutrality regulations to protect consumers and prevent ISPs from blocking, throttling, or prioritizing network traffic. However, in 2017, President Trump appointed a net neutrality opponent as chairman of the FCC, who changed the regulatory classification of the internet, effectively killing net neutrality at the federal level. Mozilla and others sued the FCC, and in the 2019 Mozilla v. FCC decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals in DC ruled that states could create their own net neutrality rules.
In 2018, California passed its own net neutrality law, leading the way for other states to follow suit. On January 2, 2025, net neutrality rules were struck down by the US Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, which ruled that the FCC lacked the authority to impose its rules on broadband providers. Despite this setback, net neutrality advocates continue to fight for the reinstatement of net neutrality protections, with the FCC voting to begin a rule-making process on "Safeguarding and Securing the Open Internet" in October 2023.
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Learn about the role of ISPs and broadband providers
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are companies that provide access to the internet, both for businesses and individual users. ISPs are usually large telecommunications companies that provide internet and other related services to consumers. ISPs can be classified as information service providers, storage service providers, internet network service providers (INSPs), or a mix of all three.
ISPs provide a suite of services tailored to diverse user requirements. These services include:
- Broadband Internet: This is the core service offered by ISPs, providing fast and reliable internet access with various speeds and technology types.
- Bundling: ISPs often combine internet, TV, and phone services at a discounted rate, appealing to households looking for comprehensive solutions.
- Email Accounts: ISPs typically provide users with personal email services included with their internet subscription.
- Web Hosting: ISPs assist businesses and individuals in developing an online presence by hosting websites and managing domains.
- Security Services: ISPs offer antivirus, anti-malware, and firewall protection to secure users' online activities.
ISPs play a crucial role in providing internet access to remote and rural regions where other forms of internet access are scarce or non-existent. Satellite ISPs, for example, provide an internet connection by beaming data via satellites orbiting the Earth. Wireless ISPs (WISPs) offer mobile broadband or Wi-Fi networks, while wired ISPs provide services through physical connections such as cable or fiber-optic systems.
In the context of net neutrality, ISPs are expected to enable access to all content and applications regardless of the source, without favouring or blocking particular products or websites. Net neutrality regulations aim to ensure that all internet traffic is treated equally, and ISPs should not selectively interfere with internet speeds based on the accessed resource. However, it's important to note that net neutrality does not block all abilities that ISPs have to impact their customers' services, and opt-in and opt-out services are available.
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Explore existing net neutrality laws and their impact
Net neutrality is the principle that all Internet traffic should be treated equally. According to Columbia Law School professor Tim Wu, a public information network will be most useful when this is the case. Net neutrality regulations may be referred to as common carrier regulations.
In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has historically played a significant role in shaping net neutrality laws. In 2015, the FCC reclassified internet service providers (ISPs) under Title II, which subjected them to stricter regulations as "telecommunications services." However, in 2017, the FCC changed its position and reclassified ISPs under Title I, considering them Title I information services. This change meant that the FCC no longer had the authority to enforce net neutrality rules on broadband providers. The FCC's decision was challenged in court, but in 2025, the Sixth Circuit upheld the FCC's reclassification of ISPs as Title I information services. As a result, net neutrality is no longer mandated at the federal level in the US, and individual states have the authority to determine their own net neutrality laws.
Following the FCC's rollback of net neutrality protections, some states, such as California, introduced their own net neutrality laws. California State Senator Scott Wiener introduced SB822, which comprehensively restored the protections of the 2015 Open Internet Order. The bill passed with bipartisan support and was signed into law in 2018. Other states have also enacted net neutrality laws, but most have worked within the parameters set by the FCC. The impact of these state-level laws can vary, and legal experts believe that states still have the authority to override the FCC's decision on net neutrality.
Outside of the United States, there have been efforts to introduce net neutrality laws in other countries. For example, in 2015, a bill to enforce network and device neutrality was introduced in Italy by Stefano Quintarelli, but it was unsuccessful. Similar laws have been enacted in South Korea, and principles have been proposed in China. In Europe, the French telecoms regulator ARCEP has called for the introduction of device neutrality.
The impact of net neutrality laws can be significant. Proponents of net neutrality, including computer science experts, consumer advocates, and human rights organizations, argue that net neutrality promotes freedom of information exchange, competition, and innovation in Internet services. Net neutrality also upholds the standardization of Internet data transmission, which is essential for the growth of the Internet. On the other hand, opponents of net neutrality, including ISPs and computer hardware manufacturers, argue that net neutrality requirements may reduce their incentive to invest in infrastructure and increase their operating costs, which could ultimately be passed on to consumers.
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Analyze arguments for and against net neutrality regulation
Net neutrality is the principle that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) must treat all Internet communications equally, offering users and online content providers consistent transfer rates and open access to content without discrimination or preference.
Arguments for Net Neutrality Regulation
Proponents of net neutrality argue that without regulations, ISPs would be able to favour their own private networks and pick and choose who they offer greater bandwidth to. This could stifle competition, especially for smaller, up-and-coming businesses. For example, Comcast struck a deal with Microsoft that allowed users to stream television through the Xfinity app on their Xbox 360s without it affecting their bandwidth limit. However, using other television streaming apps, such as Netflix, HBO Go, and Hulu, counted towards the limit.
Net neutrality regulations also prevent ISPs from charging large content companies (such as video streaming services) additional fees to cover the costs of the massive bandwidth they use. Proponents argue that net neutrality helps to provide freedom of information exchange and fosters freedom of speech.
A group of over 1,000 start-up companies, innovators, and investors signed a petition to the FCC stating that “the success of America’s start-up ecosystem depends…on an open Internet—including enforceable net neutrality rules.” Google’s CEO Sundar Pichai has also expressed support for net neutrality, stating that net neutrality principles must be protected “for the next set of entrepreneurs, building their services and trying to reach users."
Arguments Against Net Neutrality Regulation
Opponents of net neutrality regulations include ISPs, broadband and telecommunications companies, computer hardware manufacturers, economists, and notable technologists. Many of the major hardware and telecommunications companies specifically oppose the reclassification of broadband as a common carrier under Title II. They argue that net neutrality regulations would stifle growth and investment in broadband infrastructure.
For example, according to a letter to FCC commissioners from 60 major ISP technology suppliers, Title II regulation of the Internet "means that instead of billions of broadband investment driving other sectors of the economy forward, any reduction in this spending will stifle growth across the entire economy." They argue that the uncertainty of recovering investments under Title II will lead to a slowdown or halt in broadband buildout.
In 2017, the FCC reported that neutrality rules imposed significant and “unnecessary” reporting burdens on ISPs to prove they were in compliance. For instance, the ISP CenturyLink estimated that meeting the net neutrality rules created over 5,000 hours of extra paperwork, costing over $134,000 each year. During the years that net neutrality rules were in place (2015–2017), investment in broadband fell for the first time ever in a non-recession period.
Nobel Memorial Prize-winning economist Gary Becker's paper, "Net Neutrality and Consumer Welfare", argues that claims by net neutrality proponents "do not provide a compelling rationale for regulation" because there is "significant and growing competition" among broadband access providers.
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Engage with policymakers and advocate for net neutrality
Net neutrality is the principle that all Internet traffic should be treated equally. In recent years, net neutrality has been repealed in favour of broadband providers' interests, allowing them to create ["fast lanes", censor content, throttle traffic, and block access to their competitors' products].
To advocate for net neutrality and engage with policymakers, here are some steps you can take:
- Understand the Issues: Educate yourself on the net neutrality debate and the key arguments for and against it. Understand the technical aspects, such as how Internet traffic works, and the potential consequences of a non-neutral Internet.
- Follow the News: Stay informed about the latest developments in net neutrality policies and regulations. Follow reliable news sources and websites that cover technology and policy topics, such as the websites mentioned in the search results (e.g., BattleForTheNet, Public Knowledge, Common Cause).
- Contact Policymakers: Identify the policymakers who have influence over net neutrality regulations, such as members of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and state-level legislators. Contact them to express your support for net neutrality and encourage them to take action. You can find their contact information on their official websites or social media profiles.
- Join Advocacy Groups: Get involved with organizations that advocate for net neutrality, such as Common Cause and Public Knowledge. These groups often have resources and tools to help individuals engage with policymakers. They may provide templates for letters or emails to send to representatives, guidance on attending public hearings or town hall meetings, and opportunities to join campaigns or petitions.
- Attend Public Hearings: Keep an eye out for public hearings, town hall meetings, or other events where policymakers discuss net neutrality. Attend these events and make your voice heard. You can ask questions, share your concerns, and show your support for net neutrality.
- Utilize Social Media: Engage with policymakers and advocacy groups on social media platforms. Follow them on Twitter, Facebook, or other platforms they use, and participate in discussions about net neutrality. You can also use hashtags related to net neutrality (#NetNeutrality, #OpenInternet, etc.) to join broader conversations and spread awareness.
- Write Letters and Op-Eds: Consider writing letters to the editor of your local newspaper or opinion pieces for online publications expressing your support for net neutrality. This helps to raise awareness, engage the public, and catch the attention of policymakers.
- Support Pro-Net Neutrality Politicians: During elections, consider candidates' positions on net neutrality and other technology policy issues. Vote for politicians who support net neutrality and hold them accountable for their campaign promises.
- Collaborate with Local Communities: Engage with local communities, especially those who may be disproportionately affected by the lack of net neutrality, such as rural or underserved areas. Work together to amplify your voices and advocate for change.
Remember, engaging with policymakers is a continuous process, and it may take time and persistence to see results. By staying informed, involved, and vocal, you can make a difference in the fight for net neutrality.
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Frequently asked questions
Net neutrality is the principle that all internet traffic should be treated equally.
Net neutrality prevents ISPs from filtering internet content without a court order, fosters freedom of speech and democratic participation, promotes competition and innovation, prevents dubious services, and maintains the end-to-end principle.
Net neutrality reduces investment, deters competition, increases taxes, imposes unnecessary regulations, prevents the internet from being accessible to lower-income individuals, and prevents internet traffic from being allocated to the most needed users.
The FCC ruled in favour of net neutrality in 2015 by reclassifying broadband access as a telecommunications service. However, in 2017, the FCC voted to repeal these regulations. In 2024, the Sixth Circuit ruled that the FCC does not have the authority to classify ISPs as Title II services, meaning that net neutrality is no longer mandated at the federal level.
You can contact your local representatives and express your support for net neutrality. You can also join or support net neutrality interest groups, such as SaveTheInternet.com, which aim to protect net neutrality and prevent internet providers from blocking, speeding up, or slowing down content.
