Net Neutrality

Net neutrality is the principle that Internet service providers (ISPs; companies that connect the Internet users to the information made available by content providers) should not interfere with the data that travel over their telecommunications networks. For example, an ISP should not block or slow down traffic from specific websites. Likewise, an ISP should not charge a fee to a company that enables their website to be accessible to users faster than another company’s website. In other words, the principle of net neutrality requires ISPs to treat all Internet traffic equally. Net neutrality has implications for regulation, innovation, freedom of expression, and the future of investment in the Internet, as discussed in this entry.