Net Neutrality: What It Means and Why It Matters

Photo: The Verge

Opposing Agrugements

Proponents say Pai is merely clearing the way for Internet service companies to charge users more to see certain content. They also say that Pai is trying to curb access to some websites, creating a “fast lane” and “slow lane” for the Internet.

Technology companies like Airbnb, Google parent Alphabet, Amazon, Dropbox, Facebook, Microsoft, Netflix, Twitter, Snap, Spotify and more have made their disagreement with Pai’s position known.

The move “will create significant uncertainty in the market and upset the careful balance that has led to the current virtuous circle of innovation in the broadband ecosystem,” a group representing many of the companies argued.

Technology Companies Speak

“The Internet should be competitive and open,” Google said in an early statement on the issue. “That means no Internet access provider should block or degrade Internet traffic, nor should they sell ‘fast lanes’ that prioritize particular Internet services over others. These rules should apply regardless of whether you’re accessing the Internet using a cable connection, a wireless service, or any other technology.”

“We are disappointed that the proposal announced today by the FCC fails to maintain the strong net neutrality protections that will ensure the Internet remains open for everyone,” Facebook said. “We will work with all stakeholders committed to this principle.”