Net Neutrality
What You Need to Know
The Basics.
Net neutrality is the internet's guiding principle. It means an internet that enables and protects free speech. It is the definition of an open internet.
Why Do We Need It?
Well, put simply, without it Internet service providers (ISP) would be able to carve the internet into fast and slow lanes. Meaning they could slow down their competitors' websites or block politics they don't agree with and so on and so on. They could also make it so you have to pay for certain packages in order to access certain websites. Similar to how they charge for cable.
So What Happened?
In May 2014, FCC chairman Tom Wheeler released a plan that would allow ISP's to do exactly that. Fortunately, a ton of people spoke up, They created protested and signed petitions. They fought and they won. On February 26, 2015 Wheeler released a new plan that would preserve the open internet.
So There is Nothing to Worry About Any More, Right?
Not exactly. Companies like AT&T, Verison, and Comcast and their allies in congress are still trying to dismantle this win.