Net Neutrality Actions Grow: Twitter, Netflix and Reddit In Anti-Slowdown Protest

[engine]

I can see why Netflix are against it as they have most to lose.

Twitter, Netflix and Reddit will take part in an "internet slowdown" protest in favour of net neutrality on Wednesday.

They are among dozens of firms worried that proposed new regulations will mean extra charges for fast internet access.

The US Federal Communications Commission said its proposals were designed to protect net neutrality.

Many groups taking part will display the spinning wheel, an icon for slow loading speed, but will run normally.Net Neutrality Actions Grow: Twitter, Netflix and Reddit In Anti-Slowdown Protest [bbc.com]

[graeme_p]

Trust a journalist to make the first line an entirely misleading summary. It is not about cost as much as it is about cost structure (i.e. who pays) and competition.

[Marshall]

I ask: What is to stop an internet provider from charging any business for usage regardless of size. "Give them an inch..."*

Marshall

*Traditionally, most people think "Give them an inch and they'll take a mile (or some variant). My preferred meaning is:
Give them an inch and they'll think they're a ruler.

[tangor]

The very term "net neutrality" is misleading. "N Tiers Net" would be closer... and even then there will be tiers based on device and bandwidth!

[graeme_p]

@tangor, I am not sure I understand you. It sounds like you are talking about consumer bandwith and download restrictions, which is a different issues from net neutrality.

I think net neutrality is clear: ISPs must be mere conduits and not make deals to throttle access to particular servers. The purpose is to maintain competitive market so ISPs cannot steer customers to certain services.

[tangor]

I rest my case! :)

[graeme_p]

@tangor ? Yes, net neutrality is often misunderstood, but that is largely the fault of lazy journalists who write explanations like the BBC one.

[graeme_p]

OK, @tangor, can we think of a better term. The best I can do are:

1) free market internet
2) internet calling party pays

[tangor]

Just realized my post is missing a letter. That should read "NO Tiers Net". Actually, I am in agreement that ISPs are NOT the best platform for speed/access determination OTHER THAN THEIR BUSINESS PLAN. IE. Price speed/bandwidth for offerings then get the heck out of the way and let the net do/grow as it will. Let the marketplace make the determination. IOW, if your plan won't let me do xzy, I'll move to the competitor who will, at a price I am willing to pay.

[graeme_p]

Ah, makes sense all of a sudden. So you are essentially in agreement with the concept of net neutrality but think it could be better explained?

[tangor]

@graeme_p: See all above! :)

Heck, I think even the FCC is having trouble wrapping their peanut brains around this... and might result in Title II overlordship if we are not all on the same page. If that happens look to your local PUCs for historical examples of future internet delivery. Sigh...