Neutral stance
As the Internet has evolved into a resource that's increasingly vital for both consumers and business people, it has been argued that it should be treated like a utility - in the same way as things like electricity and water - and thus be made available, without restriction, to anyone who wants it.
Right now this isn't the case as ISPs still have the power to block some Internet traffic. The principle of net neutrality, which has been a hot topic for some time now, dictates that all Internet traffic should be treated the same, regardless of its source or content.
This raises several issues, both moral and commercial. Why shouldn't ISPs be able to block any activity they consider illegal? Why shouldn't they be free to favour certain traffic that they have a commercial interest in? After all - it's their network.
In an attempt to formalise this discussion, the US FCC (Federal Communications Commission) has launched openinternet.gov with a speech from the FCC chairman, Julius Genachowski, in which he said: "I am convinced that there are few goals more essential in the communications landscape than preserving and maintaining an open and robust Internet."
He proposed that the FCC formalise its existing principles on the matter as Commission rules and that it adds a couple more. He summarised the existing principles thusly: "Network operators cannot prevent users from accessing the lawful Internet content, applications, and services of their choice, nor can they prohibit users from attaching non-harmful devices to the network."
The additional commandments state that broadband providers shalt not discriminate against particular Internet content or applications, and that providers of broadband Internet access shalt be transparent about their network management practices.
