Picture this. One day you come home and you decide to binge watch your favorite show. You turn on your TV/mobile device, and you get a message saying “Here is today’s slow lane speed”.

Maybe you decide to play a game on your computer, and you receive a pop up from your ISP (Internet Service Provider) saying “Upgrade your plan to proceed” to play at its maximum speed.

“What the hell is going on?”. This is something that can potentially be a reality to the world of internet services if it’s not open as it is now. Here is some more background on net neutrality and what you can do to support.

What is net neutrality?

Net neutrality is an essential principle that regulates ISPs (Internet Service Providers) to treat all internet traffic equally, as well as ensuring free market to everyone.

Net neutrality has kept the internet running as it is. It correlates to the First Amendment rights and it safeguards people of all backgrounds—whether it is for innovation, entrepreneurial businesses, or stories. It is for everyone to be heard and to have an even playing field in the world of the internet.

Why is net neutrality at risk?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is looking to reverse net neutrality rules that they passed in February of 2015. ISPs argue that the rules are too heavy-handed and will stifle future innovation and investment for future infrastructure. ISPs proceeded to file a series of lawsuits challenging the FCC’s authority to impose the net neutrality rules.

However, without it, ISPs can choose to slow down, block, or create “speed lanes” for internet services and websites. Think of it like a toll road. Currently, all the roads are open to anyone, regardless of where they are from and where they are going.

Charges will be forced at these toll booths or road closures if the ISP sees fit to block them. Therefore, “winners” and “losers” of the internet service lanes could be the norm. Internet exposure, information flow, and experiences will be difficult to get out.

What can I do about it?

Many tech companies such as Amazon, Twitter, Netflix, and Spotify, are banding together to thwart this unnecessary scenario. If you are a U.S. citizen, you can notify your elected U.S. representatives and/or express your disapproval to the FCC at the official protest website, Battle for the Net.

Equal access to the internet should be accessible to everyone. I hope that you make your voice heard in supporting net neutrality.