The principle of network neutrality is the foundation of modern internet. Simply put – thanks to it all websites and websites are treated equally. It doesn't matter if you go to the small, local side storeor on Facebook – data in both cases is sent exactly the same way. It is this rule that makes it Internet It remains a place of equal opportunities.
What gives us the neutrality of the network?
Every day you use dozens of pages and application internet. Thanks to the neutrality of the network, your online operator cannot manipulate the speed of their operation. For example, he cannot slow down Netflix to “encourage” you to use another streaming platform, or demand additional fees for access to popular websites.
What would happen if this rule wasn't?
Without neutrality of the network, operators could create “fast” and “free” internet range. Imagine that you have to pay extra for normal access to Netflix, because your operator got along with a competitive platform. Or that your information page is full slowly, because she cannot afford to buy a “fast package” from the Internet provider.
When can the operator make an exception?
The principle of network neutrality is not absolute. There are situations when the operator can – and even must – treat some connections priority. This happens in the case of:
- Alarm connections at 112 – these always have priority
- Hacker attacks – the operator can block suspicious movement
- Network overload – then it can temporarily limit the capacity for everyone
- Implementation of court orders – e.g. blocking illegal content
With the technological development, there are questions about exceptions
The Internet is not only websites and social media. More and more devices are connected to the network – from refrigerators to cars. And here is a dilemma: Should an autonomous car have the same priority in the network as music streaming? You will probably agree that the delay in the reaction of the vehicle could be more dangerous than cutting the movie on YouTube. That is why work is underway on how to keep the idea of equal access to the Internet, while responding to new technological challenges.
What does this mean for the average user?
Network neutrality is not only a technical recipe. It is a guarantee that the Internet will remain a place where everyone – whether a large corporation or a small entrepreneur – has equal opportunities. It is thanks to her that you can freely choose the services you want to use, without fear of hidden costs or restrictions. It is also protection against internet division into “better” and “worse”.