What is Internet Neutrality?

This a term that is being kicked around our nations capitol with different groups each having their own ideas about just what Internet neutrality is. The common consensus is that Broadband services are not the same for everybody. What some groups want is unlimited bandwidth without the increase in price.

This is just not realistic. Internet service providers are out to make a profit otherwise they would not be in business. We cannot expect them to offer the farm and us not being willing to pay for it.

Another group takes a more realistic approach in that broadband should be available to rural and smaller communities. Here it is 2007 and its hard to think that some people have no Internet access at all not even dial-up.

Amongst all the nations of the world you would think the US would be ahead when it comes broadband. However, just like in health insurance we fall so far short in this area. Lets face it other nations do a better job of providing broadband services for its population.

The other thought is should the government be involved in the technology of Internet? If history tells us anything once the government gets involved we usually end up getting less and paying more. Than around election time some wise politician can include it in his campaign and point the finger at the current administration for its lacking.

Our focus should be getting rural and smaller communities up to speed. Cable and DSL providers should find a way to cut costs and still provide services at a reasonable price. Its another area that needs open competition and not just one choice in city or town. The way it is now if you want DSL you go with this provider and if you want cable you do with this one. Lets remove the constraints on utilities and allow a more competitive edge.

While the government will debate exactly what Internet neutrality is many will be using slow dial-up access to try an get some of the same things that us broadband users enjoy now. The final question is how much are we willing to pay for Internet access? Would you pay more for increased bandwidth? What if you had to pay the more for less? What if an area was allowed to support different Internet service providers? Would we see 1 or 2 yr Internet plans blossom like cell phone plans have?

These are some of the questions that could come up as every group in congress tries to decide what Internet neutrality really is.