EOTO #2

What Is Net Neutrality?

Net neutrality is the principle that all internet traffic should be treated equally. This means that all websites and online services should be treated the same by internet providers. It stops companies from making some websites faster while slowing others down or charging extra to access certain content. It keeps the internet fair and open for everyone.

Why is it important? 

 Without it, internet providers could slow down certain websites, block others, or make you pay extra to use popular sites. It also helps small businesses and new companies compete with bigger ones because everyone gets the same access to users. Plus, it protects free speech, making sure all voices can be heard, no matter how much money they have. However, some people are opposed to it.

Big internet companies don’t like net neutrality because they want more control over their networks. They argue that government rules interfere too much and that they should be able to charge websites for faster speeds. They also claim that without extra money from these fees, they won’t be able to invest in better internet service. Some believe getting rid of net neutrality would make the internet like cable TV, where people have to pay more for different levels of access.

The above graphic explain uses a road analogy to make it easier to understand: On the left side, all cars, which represent websites, have equal access to all lanes. However, on the right side, companies have the ability to pay more to make access to their lanes "fast lanes". This often times is unfair as it will but smaller ones at a disadvantage. Net Neutrality gives equal access so that internet providers cannot choose what to slow down and what to speed up. 

 The impacts of net neutrality includes: Ensuring affordable and equal access to online services, encouraging competition, allowing small companies to thrive, supporting technological advancements without barriers, and allowing all voices to be heard, preventing censorship.

Net neutrality keeps the internet open and fair, allowing new ideas, businesses, and conversations to grow. It stops big companies from controlling what we see, how we connect, or how much we have to pay. Whether we notice it or not, net neutrality affects how we use the internet every day.