What is Net Neutrality?
Net neutrality may not sound like a familiar term to many and you may also wonder what is wrong if someone wants to offer a service for free, but even if you are not on the internet a lot, it is important for you. By definition, Net neutrality means that Internet service providers should enable access to all content and applications regardless of the source, and without favouring or blocking particular products or websites. But there have been several instances (more on that below) that have already occurred and it would be best to act now. So it’s probably best to get familiar with ‘net neutrality’ as we, in India, could be hearing more on it in the future. Net neutrality means Internet that allows everyone to communicate freely. It means a service provider should allow access to all content and applications regardless of the source and no websites or pages should be blocked, as long as they aren’t illegal. It’s like a fixed-telephone line, which is equal to all, and no one gets to decide who you call or what you speak. Another aspect of net neutrality is level playing field on the internet. This means, all websites can co-exist without hampering others. All websites are accessible at the same speed and no particular website of application is favoured. For instance – like electricity, common for all. Net neutrality also means all web sites and content creators are treated equal, and you don’t have to pay extra for faster Internet speed to a particular site/service. Telecom giant Bharti Airtel launched an open marketing platform earlier this month called Airtel Zero, which allows Airtel’s mobile users access certain apps for free. Airtel has pitched the service as a ‘win-win’ for customers and marketers, claiming that both startups and large conglomerates can benefit from providing a ‘toll-free’ service, which delivers the same results as traditional digital marketing channels at one-third the cost. lets look out on the benefits and concerns on net this –
Net Neutrality Pros and Cons
Pros:
1. People will get to access apps for free and for general people any benefit which is free are always welcome. (Companies will pay on your behalf)
Cons:
1. It will breed monopoly of companies who can afford to pay. The big giants of course. 2. Monopoly of ISP (Telecom company) to offer you only what they want. 3. Kills startups and startup culture. 4. Kills investment in startups, as startups traffic will be affected 5. End customer will be eventually left with few options. Kills competition. Source – Tech2 The Huffington post
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