The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to restore net neutrality rules, aiming to prevent broadband providers from blocking or slowing down internet services. This decision reverses a Trump-era repeal and is expected to face significant opposition from telecom companies and Republicans.
This action signifies a broader effort by the FCC to regulate high-speed internet as a utility, similar to water or electricity. This move is driven by the increasing reliance of consumers on the internet for daily communication needs. The agency aims to enhance its ability to oversee broadband providers for potential net neutrality violations and address consumer harm and security risks.
Net neutrality is a principle advocating equal access to internet content. It prevents internet service providers (ISPs) from interfering with users' access to websites or services. This concept, initially proposed to counter the blocking or slowing of services by ISPs competing with those services (e.g., cable companies blocking streaming services), is now pivotal for maintaining a fair and open internet.