Net Neutrality Takes a Hit; Court Rules in Favor of Comcast

The Internet is the only medium in the world that gives all its users, without discrimination, the ability to create content for the entire world to see. User generated content is a dominating component of the Internet and freedom is one of the key characteristics of the Internet’s success. Supporters of continued freedom are backing a concept known as net neutrality, which is the principle that says all information flowing across the Internet should be treated equally. With a recent federal appeals court ruling, the freedoms current users experience online could be downloading at a much slower rate, or blocked all together as some fear the ruling could lead to unjustified regulation of the Web.

The much anticipated ruling was handed down in favor of Comcast who had brought suit against the Federal Communications Commission for rules it had put in place in an attempt to enforce net neutrality. The court found that the FCC did not have the authority or power to enforce the rules they had handed down regarding Comcast. The major take away from this is the court emphasized that the FCC does not have this authority over this matter. Many believe this may lead to regulation provided by another entity and the possibility of new legislation established to protect consumers. Most users are in agreement that everyone should have equal access to all Internet content but the issue must be considered with great precision as it has massive financial, legal and social implications.

Comcast claims the purpose of their need for control over usage stems from customers they term as heavy users. Heavy users consistently use more bandwidth, pulling available resources and causing network slowness in some cases. Comcast wants to be able to control the amount of data being transferred in to a user. Some fear this could lead to providers only allowing access to approved items and big service providers charging partners a lesser price for service while selling at premium prices to others. This discussion usually triggers discussions on Comcast’s reserved markets across the U.S. where no competition is allowed from other providers; thereby leaving no opposing forces to check each other in this constantly changing world of technology.

Although concerns have been expressed on both sides, the general response seems to be support for net neutrality. Users want protection and reassurance that when they desire information, it will be available in an unbiased, raw form. It seems as if service providers such as Comcast need to step up the game and focus on enhancing the network to provide faster, more reliable speeds instead of fighting to block heavy users.

Three minute video explaining Net Neutrality…