Net Neutrality

            
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                                     "What Is Net Neutrality"

What IS Net Neutrality?  I believe a definition is in order.  Googling this brings up the following definition:  “Network neutrality (also net neutrality, Internet 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 ... (Google, n.d.)."

On Dec. 22, 2010, The New York Times presented an article on this very topic which cited the following: “On Dec. 21, 2010, the F.C.C. approved a compromise that would broadly create two classes of Internet access, one for fixed-line providers and the other for the wireless Net (NY Times, 2010).” 

I believe that net neutrality was originally meant to treat companies and all consumers using the Internet as equal with regard to data transmission and reception.  Now there appears to be a question generating as to whether Internet providers should give preferential treatment to companies who pay for faster service, whether controversial points of view can be blocked, etc.    

I believe it all boils down to big money.  We as consumers need to keep close tabs on what is being determined by the courts.  Our freedom with the Internet is on the line.   

References:

Google. (n.d.)  Net Neutrality. Retrieved March 14, 2011, from

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&client=safari&rls=en&defl=en&q=define:Net+neutrality&sa=X&ei=vChTd7FH6WD0QHpkNnuAw&ved=0CCMQkAE

NY Times. (Dec. 22, 2010). Net Neutrality.  Retrieved March 14, 2011, from

http://topics.nytimes.com/topics/reference/timestopics/subjects/n/net_neutrality/index.html