Why net neutrality is good

What's more, telecom and cable companies sell video and telecom services through their traditional networks that are in direct competition with such services delivered through the internet. Imposing prioritization could easily tilt competition in favor of cable and telecom companies, to the detriment of many millions of consumers.

Fortunately for American business and consumers, in , after a long regulatory battle, the FCC passed rules that codified network neutrality. The rules require that telecom and cable companies treat all information flows equally and do not collect fees to prioritize any application or content.

But after Trump's election , net neutrality's opponents, traditional entrenched telecom and cable monopoly interests with strong lobbying arms, are once again lobbying to abolish network neutrality.

Network neutrality is crucial for growth of both new and established companies; virtually all sales, from the largest company to the smallest new business, now rely on the internet. Eliminating unfettered access to internet content and services would hamper these businesses' ability to grow and would negatively impact economic growth nationwide. President-elect Trump needs to look more carefully at the importance of network neutrality.

While many software providers offer built-in tools for restricting access to certain services or websites, net neutrality opponents argue these are ineffective as many younger users will simply turn to their mobile devices , which they can use without adult supervision.

Providers argue that if they were able to block these sites at a network-wide level, this would remove the problem at its source. Advocates for less oversight of internet service providers say that allowing them to charge for access to some content would lead to free access to certain sites. For example, they argue that if internet service providers charged bandwidth-hungry companies like Netflix more for using their infrastructure, they would be able offer access to sites like Wikipedia or Facebook for free - even if you had no internet contract.

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In-depth Home Business Business strategy. What is net neutrality? Promotes innovation and competition An open internet ensures that larger companies don't have yet another advantage over a tiny startup. Related Resource Being socially responsible in the developing world Sample our exclusive Business Briefing content Download now.

Porn and objectionable content thrives Opponents of net neutrality have also argued that the rules make it easier for underage users to access legal, but age-sensitive pornography. Featured Resources Turning data into unmatched business value Using data to drive better outcomes Free Download. Seven tips to prepare for your return-to-office How business leaders can maintain comms with employees Free download.

Network providers will be able to charge gamers tolls to access their favorite games, in addition to the broadband connection fee that most users already pay.

Network providers would also be able to restrict gaming access to their own online gaming companies, shutting off any competitors. Without Net Neutrality, network providers could charge you more to download your favorite videos or music, or to use services such as Rhapsody, YouTube, Napster, and iTunes.

Network providers can also tell you which download service you have to use, charging you a toll if you decide to use one of their competitors.

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