Net Neutrality

Is it the end for net neutrality?
http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2006/jun/15/guardianweeklytechnologysection2?INTCMP=SRCH
• Network providers say it is unfair and unnecessary to have the government interfere in the free market.
• Big online corporations such as Amazon, eBay and Google are among those lobbying to prevent telecommunications firms from exerting more power.
• And although it wouldn't have any direct effect on the net outside of America, say observers, it could restrict speeds on data coming from the US and, more, importantly, influence legislators in Britain and elsewhere.

Sen. Franken: 'We Can't Lose Net Neutrality'
http://www.savetheinternet.com/blog/11/03/14/sen-franken-we-cant-lose-net-neutrality
• “The Internet has proven not only to be a hotbed for innovation [and] an incredible engine for job creation, but also the ultimate self-distribution channel,” Franken said. “Now you don’t need a record deal to make a song and have people hear it.”
• Internet service providers are "coming after the Internet hoping to destroy the very thing that makes it such an important tool for independent artists and entrepreneurs - its freedom and openness."
• And if corporations take over the Internet, the incredible Web-based mobilization and creativity of the last 10 years would no longer exist, Franken said.
• "It's time for us to use the Internet to save the Internet," Franken said, urging those present in Austin and watching online to help build the movement needed to win this crucial fight.

Net neutrality: Who cares?
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/thereporters/rorycellanjones/2011/03/net_neutrality_-_who_cares.html
• The big issue here is whether a principle sacred to internet pioneers - that all traffic over the network is equal - is in danger of being watered down and, if so, whether something needs to be done.
• Some broadband firms want to be free to charge media firms to give their content priority, while some content providers are adamant that this would harm consumers and stifle innovation.
• An emerging trend towards network operators discriminating in favour of certain traffic based on who provides it, as part of commercial arrangements, is a worrying development. Media organisations like the BBC fear that they are about to see all sorts of roadblocks placed between them and consumers on the internet.