Broadband companies are suing the FCC for their new Open Internet laws which work to prevent them from slowing or blocking internet traffic for users.
The dreaded word “shaped broadband” will soon be a thing of the past if the new Federal Communication Commission of the United States wins court cases against broadband companies Alamo Broadband Inc. and USTelecom who view the steps taken to ensure a free and open internet as unlawful.
The FCC’s Bright Line Rules were created to provide fair internet access opportunities for all digital citizens and companies and eliminates broadband companies providing prioritised access to the content of organisations that they have lucrative partnerships with. The rules are as follows:
- No Blocking: broadband providers may not block access to legal content, applications, services, or non-harmful devices.
- No Throttling: broadband providers may not impair or degrade lawful Internet traffic on the basis of content, applications, services, or non-harmful devices.
- No Paid Prioritization: broadband providers may not favour some lawful Internet traffic over other lawful traffic in exchange for consideration of any kind—in other words, no “fast lanes.” This rule also bans ISPs from prioritizing content and services of their affiliates.
While the decision by the FCC does seem to be crassly implemented, the end goal would eventually bring about much needed change, especially for the everyday consumer who may not even be aware as to why their internet connections are slow on some sites and faster on others.
The Bright Line rules for a free and open internet will also apply to wireless connections, dishevelling the dubious data restrictions in fine print that cellular providers place on consumers. Broadband and wireless internet providers who align themselves with the FCC’s new law can benefit greatly from the potential positive sentiment that this can engender. Power users and businesses who are accustomed to preferential treatment brought about by stronger investments in their broadband budgets however may quickly feel the lag associated a “free, open internet”.